So far, no one has invented the perfect small crossover SUV. When judged on it's own merits, the 2010 Jeep Patriot Limited doesn't seem like much to get excited about. But that may be largely because there's not much to get excited about when it comes to compact SUVs in general. The Toyota RAV4 is competent but boring and can be rather pricey when ordered with a few options. The Nissan Rogue is a similar story, so-so looking on the outside but blah inside. Honda's CR-V comes off the best but even the much lauded Honda isn't perfect. Plenty of road noise, a weak 4-cylinder engine and no available V6 on the CR-V are proof.
Once the stage is set with competing small utes, the Patriot starts to shine just a little. The look is 10 times more attractive than the import SUVs and will appeal to those who really like Jeep's rugged, blocky look. The interior materials are very good and there's a long list of compelling options and features. Several passengers also commented on how "nice" the interior looks thanks to liberal use of chrome trim.
But like the other small SUVs, the Jeep Patriot is far from perfect. The drone from the 172 hp, 2.4 liter inline four is bothersome and the CVT feels kinda clunky. Acceleration is smooth and seamless but let off the gas at 40 mph and the Jeep either slows down too quickly or kind of jerks. Still, 172 hp isn't bad for a four banger and the Jeep does have real off-road friendly features like hill descent control and a way to get into 4-Lo.
The Patriot starts at about $16,000. Opt for the Limited and your well into low $20,000 territory. For that price you'll get leather seating, 17-inch polished aluminum wheels, fog lights and monochrome paint. Add four-wheel drive and the 2010 Patriot is gonna put a $25,000 dent in your wallet. Even in 4 wheel drive trim, the Jeep Patriot delivers best in class fuel economy - 28 mpg highway is the best you'll get in an SUV that drives all four wheels and remember, the Patriot does have an off road mode. Much has been made of the Chevy Equinox's 32 mpg on the highway but that's for the front-wheel drive version.
Until the perfect compact SUV is invented, the 2010 Jeep Patriot will have to do. A tough, Jeep look combined with decent value and best in class mpg all work in the Jeep's favor. A noisy engine and a so-so highway ride remind you you're driving a compact box on wheels.
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