JEEP Patriot Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

When Jeep decided to create a line of vehicles targeting first-time buyers, it made the Compass and the Patriot on the same platform as the Dodge Caliber and the Mitsubishi Lancer.

While the Jeep Compass was smaller and had no intentions of performing well outside paved roads, the Patriot was a step further. The automaker designed it to tackle more than muddy roads and potholes. Besides the front-wheel drive version, Jeep also offered it as an all-wheel drive with lock mode and one that featured a 4x4 system fitted with low-range gearing in the transfer box. This gave customers the freedom of choice and allowed them to use the Patriot as a daily driver for urban duties and as an adventure vehicle for weekend escapes. Furthermore, since it was compact-sized, it could easily fit into tight parking spots.

At the front, it was instantly recognized as a member of the Jeep family thanks to its seven-slat grille and the round headlights resembling those from the Wrangler or the original Willy's. In addition, the turn signal lamps mounted on the forward part of the wheel arches created a connection with the Wrangler. Depending on the grade and option, the lower bumper featured two fog lamps that flanked a body-colored or silver-painted midsection.

From its profile, the boxy-looking Patriot resembled the famous 1983 Cherokee XJ. Its flat windows and slightly curved door panels sported body-colored lower moldings and black handles and mirror caps. Sure, it didn't have the same ground clearance as its bigger siblings, but still, its 9-inch (229 mm) allowed it to go over most obstacles found on unpaved roads. Jeep made the Patriot available in three grades: Sport, Latitude, and Limited. In addition, a High Altitude pack was also available for specific markets. The base version was fitted with 16-inch steel wheels, while all the others featured 17-inch alloys. At the back, the flat vertical tailgate was flanked by rectangular vertical taillights.

Inside, the cabin proved to be enough for four adults, while five could sit for short distances due to the limited elbow room and legroom in the back. At the front, on the other hand, the Patriot's cabin was roomy for average-sized people. Depending on trim and options, the car came fitted with either cloth or leather upholstery. Fronting the driver was a squared-looking instrument cluster filled with two large dials for the tachometer and speedometer and two gauges for the engine temperature and fuel level. In addition, the center stack housed either a stereo with a CD player or the latest Uconnect infotainment system featuring a 6.5-inch touchscreen for navigation and music selection.

Jeep sold the Patriot in several markets, offering different engine options and transmissions. There were two gasoline and one turbodiesel option for the vehicle, the latter used mostly by European customers. The oil burner was carried over from Volkswagen. Besides the five-speed manual, the automaker also provided the vehicle with a CVT or a six-speed automatic.