2009 Jeep Patriot: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Jeep Patriot gets a redesigned interior. This compact SUV is a companion to Jeep's Compass, but Patriot has more traditional Jeep styling and enhanced available off-road capability. Sport and Limited trims are available, and both seat five. A 172-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is standard. It teams with a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Available as a credit option on 2WD Sports with the CVT is a 158-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Patriot is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Optional is an off-road-oriented AWD system that includes low-range gearing and hill descent control. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Fold-down tailgate speakers, leather upholstery, a fold-flat front passenger seatback, and heated front seats are available. New for 2009 is Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite, which can include a wireless cell phone link, 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing digital music and picture files, and a navigation system with real-time traffic information. The new interior includes upgrades to the instrument panel, door trim panel, and center console to go along with chrome accents, a removable carpeted load floor, and illuminated cupholders.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the GMC Terrain, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.