2007 Jeep Patriot [ 2008 ]
Jeep Patriot
Overall Score - 6.8 (Mediocre)
The Patriot is an inexpensive and attractive SUV, but it can't match the interior quality or engine power of others in its class. If you're in the market for an affordable compact SUV, you should also consider the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V.
The all-new 2007 Jeep Patriot receives praise from reviewers for being a viable daily driver with good off-roading capabilities at a very affordable price -- with excellent safety scores to boot. "The Patriot is perhaps unique in offering its level of offroadability in a cute 'ute package and is simply more likeable than the Compass and Dodge Caliber (its other C-segment sibling), with more refined ride and handling and better body control," praises Motor Trend. In addition to excellent handling and a pleasantly boxy exterior reminiscent of the Jeep Cherokee, the Patriot boasts comfortable front seats, adequate space for five passengers and generous room for cargo with the rear seat folded down.
Points of criticism among reviewers are the uncomfortable rear seats, relatively cheap interior quality and complicated optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) paired with a sometimes lacking engine. Still, the majority of reviewers feel the 2007 Jeep Patriot is "an affordable way for buyers to get the rugged styling and image of a Jeep," says Edmunds. The Orlando Sentinel reflects on the Patriot's good value, noting, "Some new minicars cost this much, yet can't hold five full-size adults and their gear the way the Patriot can."
But buyers take note: The affordable price can climb to a more daunting $27,000 when the Patriot is fully equipped. This is especially important considering that the base Sport model doesn't come with such essentials as air-conditioning, power locks and power windows. Regardless, Cars.com says, "Even after you adjust the price to add the missing basic features ... it's pretty reasonably priced." Kelley Blue Book expects the Patriot to "maintain resale value that's similar to its Compass stablemate, marginally better than Sportage and Escape and notably better than Grand Vitara." IntelliChoice gives the Patriot a value rating of "excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared with other vehicles in its class.
The Jeep Patriot has two available trims: the base Sport and the Limited. Both are available as a 4X2 (FWD) or as a 4X4.
Patriot Performance - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Reviewers generally feel the 2007 Jeep Patriot handles well on pavement and packs good -- though not great -- off-roading abilities. Though handling pleases most, many reviewers also point out performance criticisms, most notably regarding the somewhat underpowered 2.4-liter engine and a controversial Continuously Variable Transmission that some feel saps the engine's power. continue
Patriot Exterior - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The majority of reviewers praise the 2007 Patriot's exterior for its boxy look, which dates back to the classic styling cues of the Jeep Cherokee. Automobile.com raves, "This is what a Jeep should look like!" continue
Patriot Interior - 6.6 (Mediocre)
Reviewers generally feel the 2007 five-seat Jeep Patriot's cabin is roomy, even if the quality of materials and rear seating comfort are less than impressive. Points of criticism on the Patriot's interior are the lacking storage capacity and the meager list of standard features on the base model. continue
Patriot Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2007 Jeep Patriot earns generally favorable reviews for safety based on its substantial list of standard features and good scores in government crash tests. Some of these features include a safety cage structure with front crumple zones, an Electronic Stability Program and an Electronic Roll Mitigation System. continue
Patriot Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Jeep Patriot reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Patriot comes with Jeep's basic three-year/36,000-mile warranty. continue