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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2014 Jeep Patriot

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Overview

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2014 Jeep Patriot Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 5.3

When Jeep created the Patriot in 2007, the idea seems spot on. After all, the compact SUV segment was booming and Jeep had nothing to offer for less than $20K that got much better than 20 mpg. Despite its humble Dodge Caliber roots, the Patriot does possess a modicum of off-road ability, especially with the Trail Rated Freedom Drive II package. And while its overall build quality has improved, the Patriot still lags far behind industry leaders like the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage. However, if your budget is limited and you're not all about engine refinement and performance, the Patriot will hold a spot on your dance card. It's also one of the few remaining SUVs still offering a manual transmission.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you live in an area where snow and inclement weather are regular occurrences, the 2014 Jeep Patriot's low cost 4-wheel drive model should look quite appealing. When equipped with Freedom Drive II, this little compact can go where many of its rivals dare not.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you're looking for a refined ride with the latest technologies both under the hood and inside the cabin, you probably won't connect with the 2014 Jeep Patriot. Real off-road enthusiasts will prefer the Wrangler, while those looking for maximum fuel economy might prefer a Mazda CX-5 or Subaru Forester.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

5.3
Driving Dynamics

5.0
Comfort & Convenience

5.2
Design: Interior & Exterior

5.4
Value

4.6
Safety

7.7

Consumer Rating

8.4 out of 10

View all
consumer ratings

What's New for 2014

A new 6-speed automatic transmission is now available on most models, although the dreaded continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is still roaming freely among models equipped with the Freedom Drive II option. Front-seat side-impact airbags are now standard on all trims.

Driving the Patriot

2014 Jeep Patriot Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions You can't deny your roots, and neither can the Jeep Patriot. The Dodge Caliber econocar platform probably made sense for a low-priced, light-duty Jeep in 2007, but the small-SUV class...

is too competitive for that formula to still work. The Patriot can hold its own in modest off-roading when equipped with the Freedom Drive II package, but almost all drivers spend the vast majority of their time on public pavement, and there the Patriot is simply outclassed. Neither of the 4-cylinder engines feels very strong, and the CVT transmission does more for fuel economy than it does for performance, although the new 6-speed automatic goes a long way to improving the latter. Highway ride and handling are okay, as long as you don't compare the Patriot to a more refined small SUV – of which there are plenty. The all-new (probably Fiat-based) Jeep Patriot can't come too soon.

Favorite Features

FREEDOM DRIVE I (ON-ROAD PACKAGE)
For those facing seasonal road conditions, Freedom Drive I provides a full-time 4WD system designed to give year-round peace-of-mind. You won't be tackling the Rubicon Trail with Freedom Drive I, but you could tow your ATV to where the trail starts.

FREEDOM DRIVE II OFF-ROAD PACKAGE
For those preferring the road less traveled – or no road at all – Jeep offers the optional Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package. It includes a 2nd-generation CVT transaxle with low range, 17-inch all-terrain tires and an abundance of skid plates, tow hooks and fog lights.

2014 Jeep Patriot Details

2014 Jeep Patriot Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Hard plastic surfaces aren't the most inviting but they are easy to clean, which is one benefit of the Patriot's utilitarian cabin. Still, there are some nice techy features to enjoy (a Uconnect media center with iPod interface, SiriusXM satellite radio and navigation with Sirius Travel Link) and a couple of truly clever ideas, such as the cargo-area lamp that pops out to become a rechargeable LED flashlight and the speakers that flip down from the raised liftgate to energize those tailgate parties.

Exterior

Jeep's design team did an admirable job of sculpting traditional Jeep proportions onto economy-car, front-drive architecture. Requisite Jeep-family features show up, including the seven-slot grille and "can-do" fender flares. The Patriot's upright layout provides reasonable outward visibility as well as some visual character.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

Despite its very affordable starting price of under $17,000 including destination, Jeep's 2014 Patriot Sport is well equipped. Standard features include electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-Start Assist, ABS, audio jack, fold-flat rear seats, deep tinted glass and roof side rails. Standard power is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine connected to a 5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Equipment

You want options? Jeep has supplied them, mostly in the form of upgrades in trim level or package selection. The move from Sport to Latitude adds air conditioning, power windows and door locks, 17-inch aluminum wheels, remote start, front heated cloth seats, body-color exterior door handles and leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and speed controls. Opt for the top-line Limited and you'll enjoy the larger 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, leather seating, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and Jeep's Electronic Vehicle Information Center.

Under the Hood

Within its three trim levels reside two engine choices (2.0-liter and 2.4-liter fours) and three transmissions (5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic and the CVT2L with low range). The 158-horsepower 2.0-liter is standard on 2WD Sport and 2WD Latitude, while the 172-horsepower 2.4-liter is fitted to 4WD Sport, 4WD Latitude and all Limiteds. Patriots with the Freedom Drive II Off-Road package get the CVT2L transmission, which incorporates a low range for slow-crawling off road.

2.0-liter inline-4
158 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
141 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/30 mpg (2WD, manual), 21/28 mpg (2WD, automatic)

2.4-liter inline-4
172 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
165 lb-ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/28 mpg (2WD, manual), 21/28 mpg (2WD, automatic), 23/28 (4WD, manual), 21/27 mpg (4WD, automatic), 20/23 mpg (4WD, CVT automatic w/ Off-Road package)

Pricing Notes

Jeep claims you won't find a lower-priced 2014 SUV than the 2WD Sport Patriot, at just under $17,000, nor a lower-priced 4x4 than the 4WD Sport, at just over $19,000. At the top end, the 4WD Limited starts at just under $27,000. Given the car's econobox roots, you may feel hard-pressed to justify any of those prices. For a little more money (Kia Sportage, around $20,000; Subaru Forester, just under $23,000), legions of more modern choices open up, albeit without some of the Jeep's special equipment. But if your budget says no to that stretch, then the Patriot may be in play. Plus, a car at the end of its production cycle will likely carry generous incentives. To make your best deal, check our Fair Purchase Price, which reflects real-world transaction prices being paid in your area. And be ready for rapid depreciation; the Patriot's retained value will be well below those of Asian nameplates.

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2014 Jeep Patriot Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.4

Out of 10

Based on 335 Ratings for the 2007 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

8.9/10

Quality

8.5/10
Reliability

9.0/10

Performance

8.4/10
Comfort

8.6/10

Styling

8.7/10

Good bang for the buck, reliable, and comfortable

By Chiefwiggum on Sunday, May 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 54,555

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "price, reliablitiy, comfort"

Cons: "plain"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"The car lacks anything to be enthusiastic about, but has never given me any problems. The car handles well in snow, rain, wind, bumps, high speeds, traffic, and quick braking situations. Would buy again."

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Great All Purpose Vehicle

By oldvet46 (PA) on Thursday, May 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,500

10 7.0

overall rating 7 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 7/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 7/10
Quality: 6/10
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Great Price/great highway mileage/typical Jeeplook"

Cons: "no lumbar/some cabin noise/"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I have owned Cherkoees and Grand Cherokees which I cherished, now that I'm older I look at value. The Patriot is a good looking nostalgic Jeep. It is practical and useful for any family. It has comfortable seats and a great comfortable ride. The CVT is a little work getting used to but fine after that(2014 has the 6sp. auto). This car is great in all season inclimate weather and for slight off-road use. You will love the 27-29 MPG highway benefit with the CVT. I got a 2012 with CVT, 2.4L engine, the convenience pkg(heated elec. mirrors/elec.door locks/A/C/cruise control)for under $19.5(11/2012) with some perks. You must check for the incentive deals before you buy because you will get your best deal."

2 people out of 2 found this review helpful

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Very reliable, practical SUV.

By Shrinkman (PA) on Wednesday, May 01, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 43,200

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Great value and does what it was design for well"

Cons: "Loud power train, arm rest to short"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"It's a very practical SUV for around town shopping. My wife loves to load the back to bring home Costco size packages. It's easy to drive, reliable, and gives you a good view of the road. You can't beat it for the price. It's go in snow as well. When considering buying it realize it is a Jeep not a sports car. The 2008 has a CVT transmission which is loud as well as the motor going up steep hills. The new 2014 6 speed should help alot. It's a good SUV to purchase new and the life time warranty is still available as a option which is something to consider if you plan to keep it for long term. We have ours over five years and it looks and runs new. The hard plastic interior is easy to clean if you have kids and the seating folds for hauling long loads. My wife loves it and we plan to keep it for at least another 10 years like the last Jeep since she does only local driving."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Love the little Pat

By gpeterm (NJ) on Tuesday, April 02, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 91,500

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Easy on gas and good on city driving"

Cons: "Cheap interior and small rattles"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"Not much to say The patriot is the kind of vehicle you get for doing the little run about thing in your life. If you try to do to much heavy lifting it might let you down. I use it for my daily commute and running to the store. Love it just for that"

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Like my old cherokee

By Simon (ND) on Wednesday, March 13, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 120

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Very cherokee like"

Cons: "CVT IS A BIT SLUGGISH"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I've had two cherokees and was really sad when they discontinued them. I would haven't bought a Jeep if it wasn't for this one being so close to a cherokee. I wish it wasn't a CVT and had a standard transfer case and a 6 cylinder. But the 4 cylinder is plenty, the Cvt performs well, and the 4wd works fine for everything Ill use it for. Its way better on gas too. But it really does feel like a new cherokee. I love it. very classy ride. Paid 23 for a latitude, came with block heater remote start and heated seats and all that cold weather stuff. Its a great little Jeep best bang for the buck."

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Great vehicle. price and fuel millage

By Jennadog (SC) on Tuesday, March 12, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 43,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "cost, fuel millage, ride, dependable"

Cons: "could be 2" wider. Factory tires."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have a 2010 Patriot that I purchased new. It gets better fuel millage than the sticker. Rides great and I have had not one problem with it. I did not like the factory tires. They did wear well but have no off-road ability. I replaced them with a US made tire and I enjoy the outdoors off-road now. I have had many cars but this one is the best value by far."

6 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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See all 335 reviews