2009 Jeep Patriot
- 2008 Jeep Patriot
- Used Jeep Patriot
Based on analysis of 45 Patriot reviews and test drives.
Jeep Patriot - What the Auto Press Says
The 2009 Jeep Patriot ranks 19 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 45 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Patriot, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Patriot is most appealing for its affordability and good off-road capabilities. However, it still can't match the quality interiors and backseat comfort of rivals -- although an interior redesign for 2009 should help matters.
The Patriot is a good value since it functions as both a daily driver and competent off-road SUV. Plus, auto writers love its boxy styling, which is reminiscent of the retired Jeep Cherokee. "Compared to the mechanically similar Jeep Compass, Patriot feels more like an authentic Jeep," says Consumer Guide. "Compass and Patriot lack the on-road polish and cabin refinement of other vehicles in this class, but Patriot compensates somewhat with impressive available off-road capability."
Still, reviewers continue to criticize the uncomfortable rear seats and optional Continuously Variable Transmission paired with a sometimes-lacking engine. For this year, Jeep has addressed interior complaints with a new instrument panel and extra features. On the plus side: Along with its Compass platform-mate, the Patriot is Jeep's most fuel-efficient vehicle. Its 23/28 mpg rating places it near the top of the small SUV Class.
Jeep's parent company, Chrysler, has filed for bankruptcy and is expected to merge with Italian automaker Fiat. The combined company will most likely drop some of Chryser's low-selling models while introducing new Fiat model's to the U.S. While this may discourage you from buying a Jeep, it shouldn't -- all warranties will continue to be honored and many dealerships will remain open. Plus, check out great Jeep deals that may be available on slow-selling or soon-to-be-disctontinued models.
The Jeep Patriot comes in two trims -- the base Sport and the Limited -- which are available in front- or four-wheel drive.
- "Combining its rugged versatility, ample SUV-like cargo and passenger space, affordable pricetag, and high fuel economy ratings make the 2009 Patriot easy to transition from family car to weekend adventurer. Getting beyond the weak engine and its noisy struggles with acceleration may be its only major challenge." -- Car Gurus
- "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." -- Truck Trend
- "The Patriot looks like a Jeep. 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." -- Popular Mechanics
- "Like the Compass, the Patriot uses the same platform as the Dodge Caliber, but the boxier Patriot is more Jeep-like. That means a macho look and at least some off-road ability endowed by two available all-wheel-drive systems. At heart, though, the Patriot is more of a cute-ute in disguise." -- Car and Driver
Patriot Performance - 7.3 (Good)
For 2009, the Jeep Patriot gets an optional 2.4-liter PZEV four-cylinder engine that improves fuel economy, as well as suspension tuning for a better on-road ride. Though reviewers generally feel that the Patriot offers a good ride both on- and off-road, they criticize its controversial continuously variable transmission. 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
Patriot Exterior - 7.1 (Good)
The 2009 Patriot's boxy look is universally loved, mostly because it reminds reviewers of the classic 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
Patriot Interior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2009 Jeep Patriot is spacious, comfortable and more high-quality than ever thanks to this year's cabin redesign. While reviewers previously complained about low-grade materials and a meager list of standard features on the base model, opinions may change. Consumer Guide says, "Redesigned-for-'09 cabin decor brings this compact SUV more in step with class competitors, via higher-grade plastics, more soft-touch surfaces, and a more-solid feel than previous Patriot models." continue
Patriot Safety - 9.1 (Excellent)
The 2009 Jeep Patriot does well in federal government crash tests. It also comes with a substantial list of standard safety equipment. In fact, the Patriot's standard accident avoidance features are usually found on more expensive vehicles. continue
Patriot Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 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
