Automotive
When Jeep decided to target first-time buyers, it introduced the Compass and Patriot, both built on the same platform shared with the Dodge Caliber and Mitsubishi Lancer. While the Jeep Compass was smaller and primarily designed for urban use, the Patriot aimed a bit higher. Jeep engineered the Patriot to handle more than just paved streets and light dirt roads.
In addition to the front-wheel-drive version, the Patriot was offered with all-wheel drive featuring a lock mode, and a true 4x4 system equipped with low-range gearing in the transfer case. This setup gave buyers flexibility: the Patriot could serve as a practical daily driver in the city and an off-road-capable vehicle for weekend adventures. Compact in size, it also fit easily into tight parking spaces, making it well-suited for urban lifestyles.
The Patriot’s front end was unmistakably Jeep, sporting the brand’s iconic seven-slat grille and round headlights reminiscent of the Wrangler and original Willys models. Turn signal lamps mounted on the front wheel arches further strengthened the visual connection to the Wrangler. Depending on the trim, the lower bumper included two fog lamps flanking a body-colored or silver-painted central section.
From the side, the boxy Patriot echoed the rugged styling of the 1983 Cherokee XJ with its flat windows and gently curved door panels featuring body-colored lower moldings and contrasting black handles and mirror caps. Although it didn’t offer the high ground clearance of its larger siblings, the Patriot still boasted a respectable 9-inch (229 mm) clearance, enabling it to clear most obstacles off paved roads and light trails. The Patriot was available in three trims: Sport, Latitude, and Limited, with a High Altitude package offered in select markets. The base model rolled on 16-inch steel wheels, while higher trims came with 17-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, the vehicle sported a flat vertical tailgate flanked by rectangular vertical taillights.
Inside, the Patriot’s cabin comfortably accommodated four adults, with five possible for short trips due to limited rear seat elbow and legroom. The front seats offered ample space for average-sized occupants, and upholstery options ranged from cloth to leather depending on trim and packages. The driver faced a squared instrument cluster featuring two large dials for the speedometer and tachometer, plus smaller gauges for engine temperature and fuel level. The center stack housed either a traditional stereo with CD player or Jeep’s Uconnect infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen for navigation and media controls.
Jeep offered the Patriot in various markets with multiple powertrain choices. Gasoline engines included two variants, while a turbodiesel option - sourced from Volkswagen - was mainly available in Europe. Transmission choices ranged from a five-speed manual to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a six-speed automatic, providing flexibility to suit different driving preferences.
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