2010 JEEP PATRIOT By: ALAN GELL www.CarColumns.Net A few months ago, Judy and I have had a terrific 2010 Jeep Patriot for our test model.  Actually, it was used brand-new in last fall’s Texas Truck Rodeo in San Antonio and we were among the lucky journalists to test drive it for a much longer period of time

The Jeep Patriot was awarded top honors by the Texas Auto Writers organization as the Compact SUV of Texas.  This was one of the most challenging of the various categories at the Truck Rodeo.   Other categories included full-size trucks, heavy-duty trucks, luxury SUV’s, and others.  The Truck Rodeo pitted over 40 off-road capable vehicles utilizing a very difficult network of ranch roads, creeks, and rocks down in the Texas Hill Country. 

            “This is certainly an honor for Jeep,” said Michael Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “We’re proud the Patriot proved its off-road prowess at the Texas Truck Rodeo. The Trail Rated® Jeep Patriot 4x4 is hands down the most capable and affordable SUV in the compact segment.”

            Generally speaking, the 2010 Patriot has not changed much from the 2009 model.  It is among the least expensive off-road vehicles on the market.  The Freedom Drive off-road package includes a low range with a continuously variable transmission.  This allows the crawling mode in severe off-road conditions and is referred to a being Trail Rated.  The Patriot also offers hill-descent control and brake traction control.  The Off-Road package includes breakover angles, a full nine inches of ground clearance, and adequate body sealing to ford up to 19 inches of water.

            The Patriot certainly lives up to its Jeep heritage and receives plenty of accolades as being an authentic off-road vehicle.  Our test model was a distinctive lime-green color that was easy to spot in a crowd of cars.  It was very comfortable on the highway and on several short road trips.  Judy commented about how attractive and functional the interior was for the driver and passengers.  This is not a luxury vehicle, but it is very road-worthy and useful for day-to-day purposes.  There have been repeated complaints about the rear seats not being very comfortable, although we never did try them out ourselves.

            The Jeep Patriot is a great off-road capable vehicle for the price and gets good highway mileage as well.  It averages near 28 to 29 mpg, which is about the best for the low priced off-road 4x4 SUV’s.  The standard model comes with 17-inch all-terrain tires, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks, and fog lamps.
            Bottom line – the Jeep Patriot has been designed for customers that are looking for year-round versatility and good fuel economy, but want four-wheel-drive capability and a low purchase price.  The Patriot’s interior is up-to-date and the exterior is classic Jeep.  You can find smoother rides, better seating, and more comfort, but you will have to pay for it.  If you are not planning to spend much time off the beaten path, this might not be the optimum vehicle for you.  But with its legendary Jeep off-road capability, the Patriot offers a combination of freedom, fun, and utility.

            Check out the Jeep Patriot yourself at a Chrysler dealership and see why the Texas Auto Writers named it as their 2009 Compact SUV of the Year.