2008 Jeep Patriot [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 41 Patriot reviews and test drives.
Jeep Patriot - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Jeep Patriot ranks 20 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 41 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Patriot, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Patriot is an inexpensive and roomy SUV with good off-road capabilities and classic Jeep styling. However, it still can't match the quality interiors and rear seat comfort of rivals and ranks near the bottom of its class.
Reviewers generally see the 2008 Jeep Patriot as a great value since it functions as both a daily driver and competent off-road SUV. Plus, auto writers love the Patriot's boxy styling, which is reminiscent of the retired Jeep Cherokee. "The Patriot looks like a Jeep," compliments Popular Mechanics. "And with two levels of all-wheel drive and a standard five-speed manual transmission, the newest-and least expensive-vehicle in the seven-model lineup is qualified to wear the Jeep name."
Since the Patriot just made its debut in 2007, it remains relatively unchanged for this year. New for 2008 are a few more standard features and recalibrated drivetrain for a smoother feel. Reviewers' pPoints of criticism continue to include the Patriot's uncomfortable rear seats, low-grade interior materials and complicated optional Continuously Variable Transmission paired with a sometimes-lacking engine. Several auto writers like the Patriot's affordability, but buyers take note: The base Sport model doesn't come with such essentials as air-conditioning, power locks and power windows, so the price can climb quickly.
The Jeep Patriot comes in two trims -- the base Sport and the Limited -- which are available in front- or four-wheel drive.
- "The Jeep Patriot is an all-new compact SUV with plenty of room inside, using a powerful and economical 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that gets an EPA-rated 25 city and 29 highway miles per gallon, with four-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission." -- New Car Test Drive
- "I still feel a pull to the Jeep Patriot's total package: It's an SUV that looks like an SUV but doesn't feel like an SUV; and for around $4000 less than the Liberty. If you need to have three rows of seats and a larger towing capacity, the Liberty would be more up your alley." -- Truck Trend
- "[For] anyone looking for an affordable, capable and fun-to-drive compact SUV, it would be making a mistake to leave the new Patriot off their shopping list." -- The Car Connection
- "Even though the Patriot is six years late, we can't think of a better replacement for the Cherokee." -- Automobile Magazine
Patriot Performance - 6.8 (Mediocre)
Reviewers generally feel that the 2008 Jeep Patriot offers a good ride both on- and off-road, but criticize its controversial continuously variable transmission. Consequently, the Patriot's performance ranks in the bottom half of its class. Automobile Magazine says, "While it isn't particularly fun to drive on-road, this Jeep offers good ride quality and competitive dynamics that are miles ahead of the Wrangler and the Cherokee before it." Continue with our full Performance review to learn about the Patriot's excellent four-wheel drive options, including a versatile Freedom Drive II Off-Road Group package. continue
Patriot Exterior - 6.7 (Mediocre)
Nearly every reviewer loves the 2008 Patriot's exterior for its boxy look, which dates back to the classic styling cues of the Jeep Cherokee. "The Patriot is unmistakably a Jeep," says New Car Test Drive. "It looks like a Jeep all the way: more so than the stylish Cherokee or big boxy Commander." Continue with our full Exterior review to learn why one reviewer especially likes the Patriot's round headlights, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Patriot Interior - 6.7 (Mediocre)
Reviewers find the 2008 Jeep Patriot's five-seat interior roomy, but don't give it much praise in other areas, leading to a ranking near the bottom of its class. Points of criticism are the low-grade interior materials, poor rear seating comfort and a meager list of standard features on the base model. "It's not that Patriot's cabin isn't reasonably attractive, but there's cheapness in the overall choice of materials: too much hard plastic, for one thing, and when you rap your knuckles on the instrument panel, you hear a hollow echo that doesn't sound quite solid enough," says The Car Connection. Continue with our full Interior review to learn why reviewers praise the Jeep's cargo capacity but complain about its interior storage spaces, or check out the interior photos. continue
Patriot Safety - 9.2 (Excellent)
The 2008 Jeep Patriot does very well in federal government crash tests, earning it an excellent safety score. It also comes with a substantial list of standard safety equipment. Continue with our full Safety review to learn about the Patriot's standard accident avoidance features, which are usually found on more expensive vehicles. continue
Patriot Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 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 limited three-year/36,000-mile warranty, which includes towing assistance. Continue with our full Reliability review to learn about the Jeep's new lifetime powertrain warranty. continue