Overview & Reviews

At first glance, the Jeep Patriot crossover evokes the boxy, go-anywhere Jeep Cherokee of old. And that's the way Jeep wants it. But underneath, the Patriot utilizes the same platform as the old, discontinued -- and generally unloved -- Dodge Caliber hatchback. Fundamentally more of an economy car than a real SUV, the Patriot is a tough pill for the Jeep faithful to swallow.

You do get respectable approach and departure angles, ample ground clearance and the availability of a serious four-wheel-drive package that adds low-range gearing and skid plates, among other goodies. But when you get right down to it, there's just not a lot of substance behind the Patriot's bold face. Other vehicles in the segment offer roomier interiors, more standard features, higher fuel economy, stronger performance, superior fit and finish and comparable off-road capability. Overall, we think most shoppers will be better served by looking elsewhere.

Current Jeep Patriot
The Jeep Patriot is a compact crossover available in three main trim levels: Sport, Latitude and Limited. The base Sport doesn't even come with full power accessories or air-conditioning, but it makes do with basics like 16-inch steel wheels, cruise control and a four-speaker sound system. The Latitude adds the Sport's missing features plus alloy wheels, a height-adjustable driver seat and heated front seats. The Limited boasts rear disc brakes (the others get rear drums), leather upholstery and automatic climate control. Options include distinctive flip-down tailgate speakers, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, a 6.5-inch touchscreen and roof rails.

The standard engine for front-wheel-drive Sport and Latitude models is a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder that makes 172 hp is optional on those trims and standard on the Limited trim, as well as on all Patriots that have four-wheel drive. The Sport and Latitude come standard with a five-speed manual transmission and are eligible for a six-speed automatic, while the Limited gets the automatic as standard. The limited-edition Altitude and High Altitude sub-trims are equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

There are two four-wheel-drive systems offered. The first, a single-speed system that's technically just all-wheel drive, can be paired with either the manual or six-speed automatic transmission in Sport trim, but the automatic comes standard on the higher trims. Opting for Freedom Drive II four-wheel drive substitutes the CVT but also adds low-range gearing, all-terrain tires, skid plates, hill ascent and descent control, front and rear tow hooks and a full-size spare tire.

Due to its slim profile and high load floor, the Patriot doesn't have a lot of space inside. The rear seats are on the tight side and storage space is limited. The rear seatbacks fold down in a 60/40 split to open up 53.5 cubic feet of storage space, but most rivals offer significantly more.

In reviews, we've found the Jeep Patriot disappointing from behind the wheel. The ride quality is relatively crude, thanks to a suspension that's easily unsettled by imperfect roads, and the cabin is pretty noisy at speed. The 2.4-liter four delivers just adequate acceleration with the manual or six-speed automatic, and it's lethargic with the CVT. The base 2.0-liter four, meanwhile, is underpowered and barely more fuel-efficient than the 2.4. Even models equipped with Freedom Drive II fail to convince, since there are other compact SUVs out there that perform just fine in the dirt while offering a superior experience in civilization. Another major complaint concerns the lackluster quality of the Patriot's interior materials.

Used Jeep Patriot Models
The Jeep Patriot was introduced for 2007. Some features were added a year later, but 2009 saw the first big changes in the form of a new and improved interior. Prior to that, the crummy hard plastics created one of the worst cabins on the market. For 2010, the 158-hp four-cylinder could be paired to the five-speed manual for the first time. These 2007-'10 Patriots lack the upgrades made to the 2011 model, including minor exterior styling changes, improved interior trim, reworked steering and suspension systems, and a taller 4WD ride height. The six-speed automatic didn't appear until the 2014 model year, which is also when front-seat side airbags became standard across the lineup.

User Reviews:

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  Fun Little SUV - 2014 Jeep Patriot
  By juice_weasel - March 22 - 7:41 pm

  To Jeeps credit they offer one of the few remaining SUVs with a stick shift. All others have gone luxury. I simply cannot stomach paying upwards and beyond 25,000 for a 4-banger (30k for a Outback with a 172hp, 2.5L,seriously?). As a person that prefers that smaller engines.4-cylinder, are mated to a manual this was the only real option in my price range. I purchased it at Elk Grove Jeep where there were 80 units on display. I knew I wanted a patriot and leaning toward a 4x4. From my experience test driving everything on the lot; avoid anything with the automatic, 2.0 or 2.4. Testing the 5M and the 2.4 with the 4WD off was immediately apparent. Torque off the line was strong!

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  Window problems, cheap interior - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By farmwife - March 18 - 10:16 pm

  This is my first jeep. I bought it because of price and fuel economy. We had a snowy winter, and it handles well in snow. I have a toddler, so the plastic back on the seats and the YES fabric work great. Controls are in odd spots, and that took some getting used to. Window noise from rear windows is annoying. Seats are uncomfortable, and the arm rest is terrible, cup holders very inconvenient. For the second time in a month, the power windows have failed. All four windows get stuck down, the controls get some working after repeated effort. Rear driver never responded, stuck down. In zero degree weather with a toddler, a real problem. Today it did it again- thinking of trading...

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  Dont Waste Your Time and Money - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By astra_ferris@hotmail.com - March 16 - 11:41 am

  Was so excited to finally get my first Jeep and go play. Unfortunately this car has been nothing but trouble. Transmission started overheating at 20,000 miles, electric system goes in and out, sometimes my windshield wipers work, sometimes they dont. I have been locked both in and out of my car with the door locks not working. Have been stranded on the side of the road for half hour increments where my car will not work. And this is after it drops from 60-75 miles to hour to 40 miles per hour without warning. I have had my brakes not work when I have used them, almost causing accidents both times. Take it to the dealer to get fixed you say! I have multiple times now, and end up leaving with nothing fixed and them telling me there is nothing wrong with it. Look online though and you can see multiple reviews of people having the same issues. These are the problems I have had so far, then this morning my TMPS started beeping at me and wont go off. However, none of my tires are low or flat. They werent when it started going off. To top it all of, my seat belt does not consistently lock. it pops out at random, leaving me unprotected in my death trap that was disguised as a new car.

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  Very pleased - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Bryan - March 14 - 7:30 pm

  I was looking to upgrade to an suv,and was willing to trade off gas mileage, then came along the patriot.Im not a serious off roader (lets face it,95% of you with suvs never see dirt), but I need to get to the trailhead or ski area, over moderately rocky and mucky logging roads with ease.I tested it this winter a few times up some steep mountain dirt roads in deep snow and an ice storm, no problem. The engine is still breaking in,getting 22 to 23 mpg mostly around town If you dont need a rock crawler or a super sized suv,and youd rather put your hard earned money in the bank rather than your tank, this is your vehicle.With gas approaching $4/gallon, I applaud Jeep for thinking ahead.

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  Love Its toughness - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By H.Nieves - March 12 - 1:36 pm

  Since I have an HHR for the city I needed something that could handle dirt roads. My Patriot is the 4WD trail rated version. Only cost $23,000, tax and license included. I have 2500+ miles and get 25mpg. Handles well in the city although the acceleration is weak. Great for washboard dirt roads which is why I bought it. I can now see desert and mountain sites I have avoided previously. Plenty of room inside for passengers and cargo. Four wheel disc brakes have a firm feel and the steering is precise.

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  LOVE IT! - 2012 Jeep Patriot
  By 5loaves2fish - March 2 - 3:57 pm

  I was torn between the Jeep Patriot and getting another Caliber SXT (which I loved and ran faithfully without a minute of trouble for 64,000 miles). After rigorous shopping and research, I was able to get a loaded Jeep Patriot Latitude; 4 x 2; CVT; sunroof;Sirius radio for about $22,000. I spend a ton of time in my car, so the fact that it is comfortable is of utmost importance. Traction control is a great feature. Heated seats; smooth drive; 2.4 litre engine has nice pickup; manuevers well in parking structures and around town. Looks like a Jeep, but drives like a car. Being 51, I love that I sit up high. I think were going to have a lot of good years together. Ill keep you posted!

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  2008 Jeep Patriot - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By GPS Tech - March 1 - 10:50 am

  I have owned a Patriot for one year now and havent had a problem with it yet. I heard people were having problems with leaks but mine went through hurricane Ike last summer and didnt get a drop inside. Replaced the factory tires with yokohama high performance since 99% of driving is city. Now it handles more like a car. The front end is really stylish and the optional foglights illuminate backroads well. Very satisfied with my Patriot and would recommend it to anyone looking for a small suv.

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  My Experiience with the Jeep Patriot - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By Joe from Brighton - February 26 - 6:10 am

  Great in town scooter and not too bad on trips. Easy to park and a better ride than my infinity I-30. Ive taken mine Hunting,the engine does not have the torque for steep terrain, but wet fields and 4 inches of snow didnt stop me. Its not a Jeep Cherokee, my last Jeep, but it gets better gas mileage.

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  Best Kept Secret - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By happy camper - February 14 - 8:20 am

  Bought my Jeep Patriot in Nov. and at 6,000 miles it has been great. Just as tough as the old Cherokees with same styling outside but updated "under the hood. Great gas mileage and performs better than most SUVs in snow. Very little wind shear on the highway when its windy unlike many others. Bit of noise from smaller engine but plenty of pep. Only dislike is Jeep/Chrysler playing the "maintenance" game and requiring plugs at about 30,000 miles when many makers go 60,000 plus. Also use of a timing belt rather than a timing chain like Suzuki is an expense at 60,000 miles that could cost $$$. It boils down to Jeep/Chrysler wanting more bucks for the dealer to do more frequent work.

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  Im tired of its bugginess. - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By jeepgirl123 - February 7 - 5:40 pm

  I love Jeep products and was excited to buy this car. Ive had it for 3 years but the little things wrong are getting annoying. 1. Leaky moonroof. Ive been to the dealer 5 times, but stopped going after the warranty ran out. Water pours from the dome light after it rains. They told me it is because I park under trees and the drain pipe is plugged. I gave up and now just keep a towel handy. 2. Stalls when its cold. Ill drive down the road and get to the stop sign. Ill try to go and the engine is completely shut off. It quietly shuts down. 3. Temperature display is stuck on 73 degrees. 4. Radio is completely dead when it gets really hot out. (No display at all)