2007 Jeep Patriot

The cabins are roomy enough for four adults.

Type:
A front-wheel-drive compact SUV. Four-wheel drive is available.

Retail price:
$14,985- $28,315 (including shipping)

Trim levels:
Sport and Limited

Engines:
2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, 158-horsepower; 141-pound-feet torque;
2.4-liter, 4-cylnder, 179-horsepower; 165-pound-feet torque.'

Transmission: five-speed manual or CVT2

Dimensions:
Length: 14-feet, 7.7-inches;
Width: 5-feet, 9.1-inches;
Wheelbase: 8-feet, 7.7-inches

EPA mileage:
24 mpg city / 27 mpg highway, 2.0-liter, FWD, CVT;
26 / 30, 2.4-liter, 5-speed manual.
25/29, 4x4, 4-speed manual;
23/26, 4x4, CVT2 21/23 4x4 trail rated off-road package, CVT

Notes: Off-road packages must have the CVT transmission.


Report card
Exterior:
Good. Everyone will know this is a Jeep. It's rugged and compact.

Interior:
Good. Base models can be sparse, but seats are comfortable for long hauls or commutes.

Safety:
Excellent. Standard features include electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, front and side curtain airbags.

Performance:
Good. Great off-road; provides a solid ride and good power.

Notes:
Definitely worth a test drive for anyone looking for a compact SUV that can head off-road.



Trivia

* Interestingly, the Patriot is also the name of a vehicle in Rockstar Games's hit video game series Grand Theft Auto, although the car in these games bears more of a resemblance to the now discontinued Hummer H1.

* Russian car manufacturer UAZ also has a 4x4 offroad vehicle named "Patriot". Incidentally, the UAZ product line has roots in the original WWII-era Jeep that was supplied by US to USSR.