2010 Jeep Patriot

Freedom Drive II (Trail Rated) Off Road Package
"Trail Rated" Patriot models include a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT2) with low range and 19:1 crawl ratio, skid plates, tow hooks, hill descent control, heavy-duty cooling system, nine-inch ground clearance and 19-inch water fording capability.

Liftgate Speakers
As part of the 458-watt Boston Acoustics premium audio system, the Patriot's rearmost speakers flip down from the open liftgate to project outward. Outdoorsy Jeep types will find it an especially alluring option.

If you've spent time in most any Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep vehicle lately, the design and materials that define the Patriot's passenger cabin will likely feel familiar. It's not an unattractive environment in which to spend a commute, but it's among the least interesting interiors in the category. Some of the standard and optional features that count as bright spots include comfortable seats, a fold-flat front passenger's seat, 115-volt power outlet, auxiliary audio input, outward-projecting rear speakers and a removable and washable vinyl cargo floor.

Whereas the Compass's styling trends toward the softer side of Jeep design, the 2010 Jeep Patriot's decidedly squarer lines and boxier stance evoke the purpose-built style of the now-defunct Cherokee and, to a lesser degree, its Grand Cherokee successor. Limited models are distinguished by bright inserts front and rear, bright roof rails, fog lamps, body-color side moldings and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

The Patriot's powertrain lineup consists of 2.0- and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines, two- and four-wheel drive systems, plus a five-speed manual and two continuously variable transmissions (one with a low range). The larger, more powerful engine is actually the standard powerplant, and the smaller edition is available only on 2WD Sport models. A five-speed manual is standard with both engines, while the "Trail Rated" moniker is available only on four-wheel-drive Limited models with the CVT2. The Patriot's maximum towing capacity is 2,000 pounds.

2.0-liter in-line 4
158 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
141 lb.-ft. of torque @ 5000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/27 (automatic), 23/28 (manual)

2.4-liter in-line 4
172-horsepower @ 6000 rpm
165 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/28 (2WD, manual), 21/25 (2WD, automatic), 23/28 (4WD, manual), 21/24 (4WD, automatic), 20/22 (4WD, automatic, off-road package)