Jeep doesn't penalize customers for choosing the least expensive SUV on the market—the boxy Patriot looks the part of the rugged Jeep.
What's New for 2014
The six-speed PowerTech automatic transmission is new for 2014.
Choosing Your Jeep Patriot
The front-wheel drive Patriot can be tailored in a number of ways. There are, for instance, two engines on offer:
- A standard 2-liter inline-four that produces 158 horsepower
- An optional 172-horsepower 2.4-liter inline-four
There are also two transmissions—a five-speed manual and a new six-speed automatic—and two optional four-wheel drive systems.
Buyers choose from three trim levels:
Sport
The base Sport is powered by the 2-liter engine. Standard features include hill-start assist, fog lamps, illuminated cup holders, and a removable and rechargeable flashlight.
Latitude
The mid-range Latitude adds power windows, power door locks, power heated exterior mirrors, illuminated keyless entry, 17-inch aluminum wheels, heated front seats, and a leather steering wheel.
Limited
The 2.4-liter engine is standard on the Limited. Other features include leather upholstery, a six-way power driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support, a leather-wrapped parking brake handle, satellite radio, and automatic climate control.
We'd skip the bare-bones Sport in favor of the Latitude. Although better-equipped, the Limited has a price that puts it in competition with more accomplished SUVs.