2010 Jeep Patriot Review

Overview

The 2010 Jeep Patriot is a compact SUV that shares the platform with the Jeep Compass compact SUV. The Patriot seats five and is available in Sport and Limited trims with front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. For 2010, the five-speed manual transmission with 2.0-liter World Engine delivers 29 mpg highway (standard on Patriot Sport 4x2), all models come with driver and front-passenger active head restraints, remote start is available with Security Group and Automatic climate control is available on Patriot Limited.

Power and performance

The 2010 Jeep Patriot is powered by a standard 172-hp, 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine, teamed with a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). A 158-hp, 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine is available as an option on the 2WD Sport trim with the CVT. The Patriot receives engine insulation and a revised exhaust to reduce noise and allow for a quieter ride. Suspension is also enhanced for a more comfortable ride. Three driveline choices are available: front-wheel drive; Freedom Drive I four-wheel drive with lock mode; and Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package. The Freedom Drive II receives a CVT with a low range for off-road driving, brake traction control, and hill descent control.

Body and styling

The Jeep Patriot combines the interior comfort and flexibility of an SUV with the performance and fuel economy of a compact car. The front fascia has a seven-slot grille; round headlights; and wide, trapezoidal wheel-well openings. The interior is trimmed in gray or beige and provides enough room for five adults. Cargo volume is 23 cubic feet and increases to 54.2 cubic feet by folding the 60/40-split rear bench. Standard equipment on the Sport includes AM/FM/CD/MP3 player; digital-media player connection; outside-temperature indicator; variable-intermittent wipers; rear defogger; rear wiper/washer; air conditioning; tilt steering wheel; cloth upholstery; front bucket seats; center console; and split folding rear seat. The Limited trim adds an AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer; satellite radio; a 115-volt power outlet; leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls; cruise control; leather upholstery; heated front seats; driver-seat height and lumbar adjustment; fold-flat passenger seat; power mirrors; power windows; power door locks; remote keyless entry; and floor mats.

Safety Features

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Brake-traction Control System (BTCS), ABS, side-curtain air bags, Electronic-roll Mitigation (ERM) and Brake Assist are standard.