2007-2008 Jeep Patriot: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Jeep rolled out a compact companion to its new Compass car-type sport-utility vehicle for 2007, but gave it more traditional Jeep styling and enhanced available off-road capability. Patriot exhibited a more square profile than the Compass on which it was based, but the two were virtually identical in size. Sport and uplevel Limited trim levels were offered. Both seated five, had a rear liftgate, and came with split folding rear seats. A 172-horsepower four-cylinder engine was standard, mating with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). A 158-hp four-cylinder was available as a credit option for the 2WD Sport, and came only with the CVT. Patriots were available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, the latter without low-range gearing. An optional off-road-oriented system included low-range gearing and hill descent control. With that option, the Patriot qualified as "Trail Rated," like most other Jeep products. Both of Patriot's AWD systems featured a console switch to lock in a 50/50 front/rear power split below 10 mph. Standard on all models were curtain side airbags, antilock four-wheel disc brakes, and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors. Available features included fold-down tailgate speakers, a navigation system, leather upholstery, a fold-flat front passenger seatback, and heated front seats. With the Patriot, Jeep competed against such compact models as the Honda CR-V and Suzuki Grand Vitara.