An all-new model for 2007, the Jeep Patriot slots between the new Compass and the Liberty. It’s based on the same platform as the Compass and the Dodge Caliber and is available in front- or four-wheel drive.

Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Jeep

The Patriot is available with a choice of two World Engines, produced in the U.S. through a partnership of DaimlerChrysler, Mitsubishi and Hyundai: a 2.4-litre four-cylinder, or a 2.0-litre four-cylinder available in front-wheel drive models. The 2.4-litre comes with a five-speed manual transmission that can be optioned to a continuously variable transmission (CVT); the CVT is the only choice with the 2.0-litre.

In addition to front-wheel drive, the Patriot is available with two 4x4 systems: Freedom Drive I, a full-time, active four-wheel system with lock mode, which sends up to 60 per cent of torque to the rear wheels when locked; and Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package, which includes a CVT, 17-inch all-terrain tires, full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and manual seat height adjuster. The package includes a 19:1 low ratio, off-road brake traction control, hill-descent control and brake lock differentials; with the Freedom Drive II, the Patriot is a Trail Rated 4x4.

The Patriot is available as the Sport, Limited, and exclusively for the Canadian market, the North.

Standard features include curtain airbags, four-wheel disc brakes, theft deterrent system, vinyl load floor, CD stereo with auxiliary output jack, tilt wheel, sliding centre console armrest and 60/40 folding rear seats.

Available features include side seat airbags, fold-flat passenger seat, air conditioning, power locks and mirrors, six-CD stereo, satellite radio, trailer tow package and the MusicGate liftgate-mounted speaker system first seen on the Dodge Caliber.