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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  My future car - 2018 Jeep Patriot
  By Erik perez - December 24 - 1:31 pm

  Jeep Patriot is a awesome family oriented car with lots of fun and adventures. Dont get me started on off roading amazing.

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  Great for the money - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By anthony - December 26 - 10:50 am

  I was suprised that driving a Jeep would be as comfortable as this one. Although you feel bumps what else can you expect in any SUV. The power in the engine even though it is not like a 6 cylinder it gets going fast. I am tired of the gas guzzling mamoths on the road this one is good enough for me and economic.I would recomend this vehicle to people looking for something with pretty good storage space and a suprisingly smooth highway ride

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  Several Problems - Water and Automatic Transmission - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By ondago - December 24 - 9:03 pm

  Bought this vehicle brand new in the summer of 2007. The first ice storm that winter, I got water leaking in through the sun roof to the interior lights which then went all over the dashboard through the radio and electronics. Dealer took care of the problem under warranty. At only 125,000 kms (less than 3 years old) I had to replace the transmission. Dealer also took care of this even though the car wasnt under warranty - I paid the value of labor. Still the transmission slips on acceleration, not sure how long this one will last. Dealership has been fantastic but will admit the vehicle itself is a bit of a lemon but I love the brand Jeep. So very disappointed in this vehicle.

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  Please review nhtsa.gov website...this vechile stalls without warning - 2011 Jeep Patriot
  By jeeppatriot1 - December 22 - 10:36 am

  I own a 2011 Jeep Patriot and it stalled on HWY. I have in 30 years never replaced a transmission at 123K miles (HWY miles) I have already replaced my transmission. In addition, each time I have taken it in to get tires rotated and new tires I am told the treads are not "wearing down consistantly" this cause load noise with each rotation, even with new tires the same problem happened. I have replaced sway arm, ball joints, wheel bearing. I live in WI, its cold, but never had I had a window crack from the cold and Ive lived her my whole life. Please if you are looking to purchase this vechile I beg for your saftey go to:nhtsa.gov web site to see saftey problems with this Jeep!

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  Stay Away from the 2008 Jeep Patriot - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By autumnrose - December 20 - 10:52 am

  I have replaced everything in the front end of this vehicle. I have owned it 6 months and in that 6 months, stab links, barrings, ball joints, inner and outer tie rods, struts (twice), the spark plugs and it needs coils but there 40$ a piece have not got there yet. Now after the front end problems it still creaks and squeaks it makes crazy sounds. it likes to hesitate when you push the gas. It just wont go and it stutters like it wants to stall but it does not YET. i dont get it and no garages do either. One said it was a misfire in the piston. GREAT! i would not recommend this vehicle to anyone. it makes so many sounds and even after it is all "fixed" it still remains making unknown sounds

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  Classic Jeep lines! - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Steve S. - December 15 - 4:51 pm

  The Patriot feels solid and well built. I have no problem reaching freeway speeds or traveling over the mountain passes in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. It has very comfortable front seating with excellent head and leg room. I opted for the air conditioning and the Power Value Group which includes; Body Color Door Handles, Illuminated Entry, Speed Sensitive Power Locks, Keyless Entry, Automatic Headlamps, Power Heated Fold-Away Mirrors, Power Driver 1-Touch Windows, and Body Color Liftgate Applique. I was also able to negotiate a great price on this smaller SUV. Best value for your money in this segment of the SUV market.

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  Get what you pay for - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Cullen - December 14 - 11:23 am

  Its a nice affordable SUV for a first time car buyer. It does lack a little of the "vroom" factor, but makes up for it with a nice smooth drive after the initial get up and go part. The interior is a little plasticky, but makes for easy cleaning and really grows on you actually. If youre driving mostly city/highway and not looking to go mudding, great SUV for your buck. Plenty of console storage. All in all, on a budget but need the room and style, great SUV.

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  We loved it so much we bought another! - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By NewJeepGirl - December 11 - 5:26 pm

  My husband loved my 08 Patriot so much we traded his 96 RAV 4 for a base model 08 Patriot. You get so much for the money-considering we would have to pay almost $20K for a used something else that had 30-40K miles, we got him a brand new Patriot for under $18K. Friends of his thought the seats were leather (theyre vinyl), the ride is smooth, and he gets 28-29K on the highway. He still has the outside temp guage, low tire pressure sensor, and Lifetime Powertrain warrentee

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  Gets You From A to B - 2011 Jeep Patriot
  By tezza76 - December 10 - 1:06 pm

  Bought this brand new to replace my TL that died. Just had a kid so I decided to get an SUV, but on a limited budget since a new car wasnt planned. Not the smoothest ride (it is a jeep) & not a lot of power. Going uphill is a lot of work & the gas mileage is horrible (15mpg) Im guessing because of design. Not aerodynamic at all. Cabin is very small. My sedan had more interior room. With a car seat in the back its a tight fit for other passengers when they can actually fit. Cargo area is small so transporting large items is out. Even with seats folded. Tried to move a playhouse & it wouldnt fit through rear opening. Loaded same playhouse into my brother in laws CR-V with ease

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  JUNK CAR JUNK COMPANY - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By kh0864 - December 7 - 11:39 pm

  I would like to add to my previous review... We went to the dealership and got our transmission looked at, and they confirmed at 100,000Km on a FIVE yr old car the transmission needs to be replaced... The best part.. the factory warranty is expired by TWO MONTHS and Jeep/Chrysler head office will NOT warranty it.. 2 [non-permissible content removed] MONTHS!!!!! Oh and the BEST part... They tell us it will be $5300.00 to replace...What a joke!!!! First and LAST time we ever buy an American car. Very disappointed, I really loved the looks of this car, too bad they cant get the CVT right.