2010 Jeep Patriot
- 2009 Jeep Patriot
- Used Jeep Patriot
Based on analysis of 46 Patriot reviews and test drives.
Jeep Patriot - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Jeep Patriot ranks 21 out of 26 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 46 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Patriot, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Jeep Patriot lives up to its Jeep heritage and receives plenty of praise as a genuine off-road vehicle. But in all other applications, it simply can't match the smoother rides, higher quality interiors or better rear seat comfort of its competitors.
Depending on how you look at it, the Patriot can be a good value. It's one of the least expensive vehicles in its class and achieves better fuel economy than any of its non-hybrid competitors (except its platform-mate, the Compass). Plus, it's the cheapest off-road-capable SUV on the market. If you're looking for an affordable trail runner, this is it. The only off-road SUV that even comes close to matching the Patriot's affordability is the Suzuki Grand Vitara (and it doesn't hold a candle to the Patriot's excellent fuel economy).
However, if you don't plan on spending time off the beaten path, the Patriot may not be for you. "If what you're looking for is a practical urban or suburban runabout, there's not much to be said in this Jeep's favor," says Edmunds. Reviewers continue to criticize the Patriot's uncomfortable rear seats, sparse standard features, underpowered engine and unrefined cabin. Though its trademark Jeep styling helps it stand out, that doesn't make it more comfortable as a daily driver.
Unfortunately, you'll have to pay a bit more for that extra comfort. The compact SUV class leaders, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, each start at about $4,000 more than the Patriot. If that doesn't fit into your budget, consider the Kia Sportage. It's one of the only models that costs less than the Patriot and it comes with better on-road handling. However, its fuel economy isn't quite as good as the Patriot's.
The Patriot is unchanged for 2010. If you're interested in it, consider buying a 2009 model. You won't be missing anything and you may be able to snag a discount as dealers make way for the new 2010s on their lots. Check out our Jeep deals to see what's available.
The Jeep Patriot comes in two trims -- the base Sport and the Limited -- which are available in front- or four-wheel drive.
- "Compared to the mechanically similar Jeep Compass, Patriot feels more like an authentic Jeep. 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." -- Consumer Guide
- "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 $4,000 less than the Liberty." -- Truck Trend
- "Some refinement issues -- both engines sound particularly coarse, especially with the CVT -- and a substandard driving experience are of concern, but the Patriot's price and good looks might be enough to sway some buyers. -- Car and Driver
- "All told, the Patriot is slowly starting to grow on us. We've learned to live with its on-road stodginess, and unless we consider the Volvo XC-series and Land Rover's LR2, we'd be hard-pressed to name another midsize crossover we've driven recently that handles the number of off-pavement surfaces as well as the Patriot can -- and it's a lot less expensive than those other rigs, even at $28K." -- Four Wheeler
Patriot Performance - 7.3 (Good)
The Jeep Patriot shines for its off-roading prowess. However, though it received new suspension tuning last year, its on-road ride still trails most competitors. Reviewers also heavily criticize its continuously variable transmission. However, a big plus is the Patriot's fuel economy (23/28 mpg), which is higher than every non-hybrid SUV in its class. "To its credit, the Patriot remains composed over bumpy roads, and though this Jeep's steering is lifeless and vague, its handling is within the limits of acceptability for this class," says Edmunds. Read More
Patriot Exterior - 7.1 (Good)
The 2010 Jeep Patriot's boxy look is universally loved, mostly because it reminds reviewers of the classic Jeep Cherokee. Says New Car Test Drive, "It looks like a Jeep all the way: more so than the stylish Cherokee or big boxy Commander." Read More
Patriot Interior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2010 Jeep Patriot is spacious inside, but even with last year's redesign, reviewers have mixed feelings regarding materials quality. Still, buyers should realize that the Patriot is one of the cheapest SUVs in its class, so they can't expect too much interior refinement. Edmunds notes that even with last year's upgrades, the Patriot's "ostensibly improved dash layout is still one of the chintziest in the business." A plus is the multitude of hi-tech options, including Uconnect, Chrysler's voice-activated "infotainment" system. Read More
Patriot Safety - NA
The 2010 Jeep Patriot does very well in federal government crash tests. It also comes with a substantial list of standard safety equipment with features that are usually found on more expensive vehicles. However, supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, which come standard on the Patriot's top competitors, are just optional. Read More
Patriot Reliability - NA
The Patriot comes with Jeep's basic limited three-year/36,000-mile warranty, which is on the shorter side compared to the class. Read More
