Automakers

Off-road Patriot is surprisingly capable

The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot offers a hill-descent feature. (RICK KRANZ)
RK
By:
Rick Kranz
March 26, 2007 05:00 AM
Patriot vs. Tucson

How Jeep Patriot compares with rival Hyundai Tucson
 Jeep PatriotHyundai Tucson
Wheelbase103.7 in.103.5 in.
Length173.6 in.170.3 in.
Width69.1 in.70.7 in.
Height65.7 in.68.1 in.
Curb weight3,108 lbs.3,240 lbs.
Base engine2.4-liter 4-cylinder2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower172 @ 6,000 rpm140 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque165 lbs.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm136 lbs.-ft. @ 4,500 rpm
Base price$14,985*$17,595*
*Includes shipping

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- While the 2007 Jeep Patriot shares a platform with the somewhat mainstream front-drive Dodge Caliber, the Trail Rated Patriot model is engineered as a surprisingly capable off-road vehicle.

With the optional off-road package, the all-wheel-drive Patriot can cross a 19-inch-deep stream, ascend or descend moderately steep grades and climb over some good-sized rocks and logs.

Although it is not intended for rescue missions on the rugged Rubicon Trail, "the Patriot is somewhat of a spiritual successor to the old Cherokee," says John Sgalia, director of Jeep Patriot design.

The basics: The 2007 Patriot is the seventh addition to Jeep's lineup, completing an expansion started in 2005. And it is Jeep's lowest-priced model -- $14,985, including shipping.

The Patriot also shares a platform with the Jeep Compass. Mitsubishi Motors started development of the vehicle platform. Chrysler joined as a co-developer, adapting the platform to a range of vehicles that ended up being marketed under the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep brands. Right-hand-drive models also were created.

Three four-cylinder engines are offered, co-engineered by Hyundai Motor Co., Mitsubishi and DaimlerChrysler. A continuously variable transmission is optional.

Standard Patriot safety features include side curtain airbags, stability control, antilock brakes and electronic roll mitigation. Crank-style roll-up windows and nonpower door locks are standard; air conditioning is optional.

Notable features: The Patriot is available in three drive configurations: fwd, full-time awd and awd Trail Rated.

It is the third option package, which Jeep calls Freedom Drive II, that turns the Patriot from a shopping mall cruiser into a respectable, low-priced off-roader.

The base Patriot, called Sport, can be had with that package for $19,175, including shipping.

The Freedom Drive II package includes a CVT with a 19:1 low ratio, developed for crawling over obstacles. A brake traction control system maintains forward mobility on surfaces when one wheel loses traction.

"As a wheel comes up off the ground, it transfers torque to the other (axle) to keep you going down the trail," Matt Liddane, chief engineer of the Patriot, said during an interview at a Patriot event here.

A hill-descent feature modulates brake pressure without input from the driver, providing downhill assistance at a controlled speed.

Models with Freedom Drive II have 9 inches of ground clearance, up 1 inch from other Patriot models. A 3.5-millimeter-thick skid plate is in front, at the lowest portion of the vehicle, and in the rear, to protect the fuel tank.

What Jeep says: "The Patriot is aimed at buyers who were never able to afford a Jeep," said Mark Heber, senior brand manager, Jeep marketing.

Compromises and shortcomings: The CVT is annoying. During passing situations, the transmission seems to be continuously searching for the right gear ratio.

Nuts and bolts: While the Patriot and Compass are the same size, the Patriot has boxy styling that is aimed at male buyers.

The Patriot is about $1,000 less than a Compass because it has less standard equipment. The Trail Rated package is not offered on the Compass.

The skinny: The Patriot's good looks, capable off-road performance and attractive price are a winning combination.

You may e-mail Rick Kranz at rkranz@crain.com

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