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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  2012 Patriot Limited - Better than expected! - 2012 Jeep Patriot
  By drnhl - October 1 - 6:16 am

  Had to replace my totaled Suzuki Equator and the hunt was on. Looked at almost every MFGs smaller SUV and kept coming back to the Jeep. The re-programmed VCT matched up with the 2.4 seems to be a great revision/fit. Always had 6 or 8 cyln engines so was a bit apprehensive but not yet. With only 1600 mi on the Patriot maybe I should wait but just love it. I have all the options with exception of "off-road" pkg. The creature comforts are very welcome, comfortable/ heated seats were key and the nav/sound sys is a plus too. So far no issues with power and feels comfortable to drive. Just remember its a Jeep and if you are a Jeep lover like me take a look at the affordable Patriot.

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  bought in July 2015 - 2015 Jeep Patriot
  By Ina - September 27 - 4:49 am

  I bought mine in July and I have 13000 miles on it. I have made trips to Ohio, Virgina, and Georgia. It had some miles put on it and some wear and tear. I absolutely love this Jeep. It doesnt handle like a sports car but its not meant to be. I would recommend it to anyone with a family or just a couple. I will drive this until it dies

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  problem from the start - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By patriot is a lemon - September 26 - 6:00 pm

  I bought my Jeep Patriot in April 2008, i have had problems ever since i drove it off the lot. To date the electronic clutch has been replaced, the master cylinder and booster has been replaced, the windshield has been resealed, front power windows dont stop when button released, right rear hub and bearing assembly replaced, basically this jeep has been a nightmare we traded a very good mini van for this jeep and Im left with a lemon and cant make lemonade, I asked the dealership to take it back when they told us two months after we bought it the type of repairs needed, the said THEY WERE NOT IN THE BUSINESS OF RETURNING VEHICLES, well Im not in the business of buying lemons.

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  My new JEEP Patriot - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By MissMolly - September 10 - 1:06 pm

  So far I really like my Patriot. I traded in a 1998 Mercury Mountaineer in the cash for clunkers program and got $8000 off with the additional $3,500 off from Jeep which was a great deal. Its taken some getting used to losing lots of the extras that my Mountaineer had that this car doesnt have such as automatic lights on/off and power seats, etc. but over all it is a great little SUV. It does get about 21 MPG, however it has a very small gas tank. I drive about 300 miles or more per week, so I am at the gas station at least every four days and that is getting old. Also, if you are used to a V8 or a V6, use caution for the first month or so when pulling out in traffic.

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  Could not hate this car more! - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Kari Zimmerman - September 6 - 5:24 pm

  What a piece of crap. I readily admit that my credit is a bit challenged and so I was basically forced into this car. It is cute and comfortable and Im a single mom who needed more reliable transportation for my family. Also, while attending work meetings, I needed a vehicle that would not be embarrassing to be seen getting into afterwards! So, into the Patriot I went. Cute and comfortable is about all the good I have to say about this rattletrap. There is absolutely no power, the engine is better suited to a Geo Metro or something. It cannot pull the weight of the Patriot at all. This also contributes to the utter lack of acceleration and low gas mileage. The Bluetooth barely works - I have ended up literally screaming at my dash, trying to get it to understand the number I am asking it to dial. Note - that doesnt work either... First world problems, I know, but if it exists within the vehicle I am paying for, it would be nice if it worked. The tires slip in the rain - Im in Washington, so you can imagine how fun that is - and the snow is impossible. I can drive in it, but the vehicle cannot. My brakes began squealing about a month after I purchased the car. And now, after owning the vehicle for about 14 months, my alternator just went out. I drive quite a bit between my work commute and weekend adventures and I am so incredibly disappointed in this purchase. In short, run, dont walk from this awful vehicle. Getting a 4-Runner next time!!

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  The sound system - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Pattie Vandling - August 31 - 5:10 am

  The sound system in this vehicle is comparable to my first car, 1975 cutlass supreme! Absolutely awful, the most generic sound system I have heard, and I have a 2016! I will never lease or buy another jeep product, so so disappointed!

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  2009 Patriot 4x4 - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By frogman - August 29 - 11:43 am

  I bought my Patriot Sport 2 months ago and am very pleased with the vehicle. I get about 28 to 29 MPG on the highway and average 25 overall. I waited until the 2009s were available before purchasing since I was hoping Jeep would change the interior. I am so happy that I did - the interior dash is so much more refined than the 07-08! I did buy the manual because I like manuals, wanted the better mileage, better pickup and lower cost. Im glad I did. I never did drive the CV automatic. The vehicle is amazing in the snow without even locking in the 4x4 (I live in Wisconsin). It is even nicer getting around town in the snow than my 1996 Grand Cherokee was. Overall this is a great Jeep.

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  Jeep Fundamentals - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Ryan - August 22 - 8:23 pm

  Having traded a supercharged Grand Prix for a 4 cyl. 1.5 ton vehicle, I was a little weary about losing the performance I enjoyed. I was shocked with the performance of the Jeep and bought the vehicle after further review of reliability and economy. It wont be setting any land speed records; however, buying a 4X4 setting speed records should be of least concern. The Patriot has 600 miles now and averages 24-26 mpg including 4X4 use from a recent snow. All controls are easily located and the steering wheel controls are very handy since my GP had a similar set up. The Patriot handles like a car, but strong winds can push the Jeep. Chose the Patriot for the traditional Jeep look. A+ Jeep

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  Great vehicle for money! Its all relative - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Patrick Davies - August 21 - 4:52 am

  I was looking for a no nonsense, good economy, versatile vehicle with a lower repair cost down the road and less "systems" to break. I got just what I was shopping for. For the money, this vehicle is a great bargain! I traded in my 2006 Cadillac and I could not be more pleased. I prepared myself for a huge sacrifice in comfort and I just have not experienced it. It is lighter of course, but I am getting almost 15 miles to the gallon more with the jeep. Surprisingly enough, the jeep is as quite at high speeds as the caddy was, that shocked me. Another thing I really like about the patriot is the large front windshield. It is forward and extremely large for the size of the vehicle. Great visibility all around. I read reviews and heard that there was a problem in the past with some kind of water leak. I have not experienced that with my vehicle. I am happy with my purchase and I wouldnt hesitate to recommend it to my friends and family.

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  Incredible Value - 2014 Jeep Patriot
  By 1cor118 - August 16 - 11:40 am

  I have never been a jeep fan, but I wanted a vehicle with decent room, good gas mileage, and inexpensive. I looked at toyota, honda, and others, but prices were too high. Then I read about the patriot here on Edmunds and got interested. I reluctently went to the local dealer and drove one and I was shocked! I selected a 4 cyl with front wheel drive and a 5 spd manual and it drives more like a honda accord than a jeep. It is very basic (A/C is the only option) but I purchased the vehicle brand new for $13,288 including dealer doc fees. (The MSRP was $18,000) My first tank ful of gas I got 30.1 mpg! The Patriot is solid, an incredible value and highly recommended.