Jeep Patriot (07 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 13 February 2009
The Patriot is a softer Jeep, designed for owners who want the extra ability of a four-wheel drive, but don't need a large off roader. It's smaller and cheaper then the Cherokee with less rugged looks, but still comes with a practical and family-friendly cabin. The most popular engine is the 2.0-litre CRD - a diesel sourced from Volkswagen which although lacking in refinement, does offer good grunt. Unfortunately the interior of the Patriot is poor quality with cheap plastics and flimsy switches, while the finish is low rent too. Compared to normal family hatchbacks, it's not particularly cheap to run either.
3 out of 5

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2 out of 5

Buying new

Jeep says the Patriot is an alternative to everyday family hatchbacks, but prices start far higher than models like the Ford Focus. Go for a diesel model and the cost goes up even further. The base model is fairly well equipped, but then it should be given the list price. Jeep dealers should be open to negotiations on price, but there are few useful options to haggle with aside from metallic paint and sat nav on the higher spec models. Though unlikely to be supplied in high numbers, the Patriot drives into a part of the compact SUV market recently abdicated by several makers. One of the best American cars available, it looks to be the strongest value proposition so far from Jeep. The only options are a nine-speaker audio system with a CD autochanger and special paintwork.

2 out of 5

Buying used

The Patriot isn't a big seller new and a rare sight on the used car market. The diesels will cost more than an equivalent petrol but are certainly worth it if you intend on covering reasonably high miles. Only two trims are offered - the base Sport and the Limited.

  • Boot/Load Space Jeep Patriot (07 on)
  • Interior Jeep Patriot (07 on)

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See 49 used Jeep Patriots for sale, starting at £6,399

2 out of 5

Selling

While the Jeep name is well known to buyers, the Patriot is a new badge and most people won't be aware of it. It's essential therefore to highlight the cars key strengths including the VW-sourced engine (if it's a diesel), four-wheel drive and decent levels of standard kit.