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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  A Move Up As Far As I AM Concerned - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By GHW - January 25 - 9:00 pm

  I guess the performance is in the mind of the user. I have owned a Cherokee Sport, a Grand Cherokee Laredo and a Liberty. For value per dollar spent, Ill take the Patriot hands down. I have the 4WD with the CVT and I dont experience the "Performance-robbing" attributes that are described by the reviewer. If jumping on it to merge is your goal, you may want to think about souping up a Neon or Eclipse. I didnt buy any of my Jeeps for their ability to go 0 - 60, thats absurd. I drive them because they are sound and safe vehicles. The ride in my Patriot is smooth as silk and surprisingly quiet. I dont have any problems getting to 70 mph or maintaining it.

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  Best Vehicle Ive Ever Bought - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By IF Big Sky - January 25 - 1:03 pm

  Cant brag enough about what a great purchase this was. The price was terrific. The fuel economy is outstanding. Its a Jeep. I feel safe using it on my long weekly commute in the harsh winter climate of Montana. I use it for work and it is a very professional sharp looking vehicle that doesnt scream obnoxious wealth. I cant believe the nation isnt gobbling these American made fuel efficient good looking vehicles up.

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  Realistically the BEST SUV out there - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By patrioticNORTH - January 21 - 7:56 am

  08 North Edition 4x4 Its fuel economical, you get $1000 back from the Canadian govt under the ecoAUTO Rebate Program for 2007-2008 models (4x2 or 4x4 5spd only)... pretty much the only non-hybrid 4x4 SUV eligible under that program (along with the Compass). It looks rugged and its sharp. It was not love at first sight for me at all, until I decided to buy it because of the great deals that I couldnt resist. Ive always been a fullsize type of guy - was looking at a Dodge Ram 4x4. Its still too new for the engine to break in to get the best fuel mileage and to see its true reliability down the road. But so far, I could not be happier with this Jeep - and I am in love with it.

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  I am done with Jeep - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By suzib1 - January 7 - 2:51 pm

  I have replaced too many things on this vehicle to keep track. Ball joints (and I think they are bad again), transmission, tie rods, calipers, and assortment of belts, etc. I was hoping to have this vehicle for many years but it is becoming such an expense to upkeep that I may end up trading it in and dealing with a car payment again. I was looking for better gas mileage with 4-wheel drive than my Jeep Liberty, but the Patriot feels very cheap and apparently is made to break bit by bit. Even the dealership is stumped by the myriad of warning lights that turn on and wont turn off or simply stop working all together. Piece of garbage and dont waste your money and patience.

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  Great all-arounder - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Groovyphotog - December 25 - 8:44 am

  Does everything I need it to do. Im 6 ft tall and have plenty of headroom, even with the sunroof. The one touch sunroof is great. Most, if not all the complaints Ive read about this vehicle are really unfounded . There are so many different versions that you can get one that suits you. What other vehicle has a choice of hand crank or power windows, manual, CVT, or 6 speed transmission, 2 different versions of 4WD or 2WD? The 2.4 has plenty of get up and go, and gets good gas mileage. Rides so smooth and has plenty of zip for the freeway. Leather wrapped steering wheel feels good. Leather and mesh seats are comfortable and look great. Basic stereo sounds great. I really like the layout of the dash and all the controls. So many vehicles have buttons placed almost randomly, not the Patriot. It has a very intuitive layout. And how bout the name Patriot? I think its patriotic to buy a vehicle that is made in America, with such a rich American heritage. I have the 6 speed auto with fd1 4x4. Shifts great. Nothing wrong with the CVT either, Ive driven one extensively. The only other features I would have like to have are the EVIC and a telescoping wheel. The EVIC doesnt come on the 75th Anniversary Edition, and telescoping steering wheel is not available at all. So it may take a little more time to dial in your position. Comfortable ride. I also have an 01 Grand Cherokee. It has more power and off-road ability but pretty poor mileage. Independent suspension on the Patriot does great at sucking up the bumps. Basically the whole vehicle is like taking the old Cherokee and refining it for the driving that most people do. If you want a true off-road machine get a Wrangler, theyre awesome! If you drive mostly on the road but want very good bad weather and mild to moderate off-road abilities with decent mileage, the Patriot may be for you. Im glad I got one before they stopped making them. Wish they kept making them but I guess 11 years is a pretty good run. I bought the Maxcare Lifetime Warranty. I plan on driving this for many years to come. Its just a great all-around Jeep!

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  Great SUV - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By Samster3 - December 25 - 12:16 am

  I purchased my Jeep Patriot a month ago and absolutely love it. This is an ideal SUV for someone who wants it to look great, get solid gas mileage and be able to lug stuff around town or on trips. I would recommend the Patriot to anyone, in fact, my in-laws are looking at one this week!

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  Sport stick a must - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By intrade - December 20 - 1:36 pm

  Had the 2.0 with CVT and sport stick now for two weeks averaging over 26 mpg, trying. Sport stick is great and makes this a fun driving commuter that Im not ashamed to be seen in.

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  Great Jeep - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By frenchad - December 18 - 3:40 am

  My jeep now has 72k on it, and keeps running strong. There has been a few little things that have gone with it, but so does every car. I was looking at Subaru foresters, but could get this car with much more options, for much less of a price. Handles great in the snow, and sticks to the road with 4x4. Havent had any trans problems, but I also take preventative measures with my cars, like getting the fluids flushed periodically. The certified warranty is great up to 84k and havent had to use it except for a reprogramming of a control module. all in all, Great Jeep!

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  Fun! Fun! Fun! - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Pete - December 14 - 2:54 am

  This is the most FUN vehicle to drive.....I SPECIAL ORDERED Mine with the Freedom drive 2 "off road " package, CVT automatic trans, and Air Conditioning! .......Otherwise NO Electric.......Windows, seats, door locks, Navigation......Just The Basics that come with the Jeep....., Like,,,,, am/fm, cd, sirrius radio, intermittent wipers, Manually adjustable drivers seat (up,down,forward,back,tilt,recline) bluetooth ,rear wiper, cruise control, usb, Folding rear seats,Full size spare tire (a REAL TIRE) ......STEEL Underbody skid plates (not plastic like everyone else), Tow hooks FRONT and REAR, Roof Rack, And a real 4X4!....for Under $18K......PLUS 24 MPG! What a Joy to drive! It Handles Great, very nimble, Wet traction is Very good, Cargo space is REAL NICE for a Compact SUV, OFF ROAD or in mud, snow , sand it has been fantastic! I have 4 other vehicles, 2 of which are AWD ( competitor)..... Much more expensive , loaded with the electronic wizardry, and DOWN RIGHT BORING TO DRIVE! The Patriot Is The Most FUN ......If it only had MORE POWER.....it has 172 Horses.........Im a guy.....what did you expect!

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  My Lil Jeep - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By Mike Q - December 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought this Patriot, because I needed more room. I had a std cab Ford Ranger, and my two boys and myself were filling it up. Im a Assistant Scoutmaster of a Boy Scout troop and we camp and hike a lot. This will work perfect for our outings. I wished that I would have gotten a 4wd but I think this will work perfectly either way.