9 February 2011
New car report; Uncle Sam fights back.
The new Jeep Patriot retains the tried and tested exterior styling of the model that was launched back in 2007, with the 7 slot grille and rugged, squared-off lines we've come to expect from the traditional General Purpose vehicle.
But new interior finishes and fabrics combined with a new dash, instrument cluster and centre console layout give the new Jeep Patriot a much more inviting feel.
The rear cargo space flooring now gets upgraded from a public bar looking hard surface to lounge bar quality carpet. Door trim panels are also treated to a more luxurious, softer finish, and increased use of sound insulation materials and some suspension enhancements make the new Patriot quieter and more refined.
Two models are offered, an entry level Sport model and the Business Class level Limited.
The new dark slate grey seat fabric in the Sport model is coated with a protective treatment that Jeep call Stain Repel which is claimed to render the fabric stain resistant and odour resistant, as well as providing anti-static qualities.
Petrol power only
Both models are powered by a 2.4 litre DOHC dual VVT petrol engine producing 125kW at 6,000rpm and 220Nm of torque at 4,400rpm, which is mated to a CVT transmission with 6 step manual mode. There are no longer diesel or manual versions offered.
Power is transferred to the road via Jeep's Freedom Drive on demand four wheel drive system which engages four wheel drive when it is required via an Electronically Controlled Coupling (ECC).
While anything carrying the Jeep branding might be expected to have the ability to crawl up mountainsides or slowly negotiate its way through deep muddy terrain, despite the Patriot's lack of a low ratio, the Freedom Drive manages to claw he Patriot through some remarkably sticky off road situations.
Equipment levels remain high, with 17 inch alloys, cruise control, CD player with MP3 and auxiliary input, heated front seats, deep tint sunscreen glass in the rear, ESP, ABS, Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) and six airbags standard on both models.
The Limited gets leather interior, a 6 disc CD player and front fog lights.
Simple but clever
A couple of simple but clever features include a flat folding passenger's seat which provides additional cargo space, allowing for longer loads to be carried inside the vehicle and a rechargeable interior lamp mounted in the rear headlining which can be removed and used as a hand-held flashlight.
Fuel consumption is quoted at 8.7L/100km, which is reasonable for this type of vehicle, and with load carrying capacity of up to 1,277 litres and towing capability of 1,200kg braked, the demands of most family's requirements will be admirably met.
It's got rugged good looks with well behaved manners on the road and enough aggressive attitude off the road, it's quieter than before, with better cabin ambience than before but at the same price as before.
Priced at $35,990 for the Sport and $39,990 for the Limited, this all-American Patriot is remarkably good value whichever way you look at it.
It competes very well against other SUV/Crossover vehicles in the marketplace and would have to be in the consideration set for any prospective soft-road buyer.