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Jeep Patriot: compact SUV, engines and trims
The Jeep Patriot is a compact SUV produced mainly for the North American market from 2007 to 2017, and only sold in Europe for part of that period. We look at the engines and gearboxes on offer, how the trims differ, and what to check before buying a used Patriot.
Patriot in brief
The Patriot is Jeep's more affordable and straightforward model, built on a shared platform with the Jeep Compass. Its boxy body harks back to classic Jeeps, while the interior is spacious but rather plain.
Most examples sold in Lithuania are imported from the US, so their specifications and some details may differ from European versions. It's important to find out where the car was imported from when buying.
Gearboxes and handling
The Patriot could be had with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The more advanced 4x4 version features a reduction gear and a locking differential, suitable for tougher terrain, but it's still more of a city SUV than a true off-roader.
The ride is soft and comfortable, but the car leans quite a bit in corners. It's great for relaxed driving, but not for spirited motoring.
Engines and gearboxes
In Europe, the most common engines are the 2.0-litre CRD diesel (around 140hp) and the 2.4-litre petrol engine (around 170hp). The North American market also gets other petrol engines.
Gearboxes come as manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic. The CVT is more common on petrol versions and requires more diligent maintenance.
What to check when buying a used Patriot
Test the CVT transmission on the road: it should operate smoothly, without juddering or hesitation. Ask if the oil has been changed and if there are no signs of overheating. If it's a manual transmission, check the clutch.
In diesel versions, check the turbo, injectors, and cold start. In an all-wheel-drive car, check the drivetrain components and their operation.
Check for corrosion on the body in the sills and wheel arches, the suspension condition, air conditioning, and electronics. If the car is from the USA, investigate its history and ensure there were no major accidents.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common trims found in Europe.
Sport
2007–2017Base trim with more basic equipment.
- Often — steel or alloy wheels
- Simpler interior trim
- Basic audio system
Limited
2007–2017Higher trim with more comfort features.
- Often — alloy wheels
- Often — leather interior
- Often — climate control and better audio system
Latitude
Mostly North AmericaMid-range trim, common in US-imported cars.
- Often — alloy wheels
- Often — additional comfort features
- Equipment varies by year
Engine comparison
| 2.0 CRD dyzelis | 2.4 benzinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For high-mileage drivers, economical motoring | For less frequent trips, simpler maintenance |
| Power | Around 140 HP | Around 170 HP |
| Fuel economy | Lower | Higher |
| Most common gearbox | Manual | Manual or CVT |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € |
If you do a lot of driving, the best choice is the 2.0 CRD diesel. The 2.4 petrol is fine for simpler journeys, but you'll need to thoroughly check the CVT gearbox.
Pros
- Spacious interior and high seating position
- Boxy, practical body shape
- Optional four-wheel drive with low-range gearing
- Simple construction
Cons
- Less refined interior and comfort levels than rivals
- Maintaining the CVT gearbox can be expensive
- Some examples are imported from the USA, their equipment and parts may differ
Frequently asked questions
Is the Jeep Patriot suitable for off-roading?
The 4x4 version can handle tougher roads, but it's primarily an urban SUV. It's not really cut out for serious off-roading.
Which Jeep Patriot engine to choose?
Many buyers opt for the 2.0 CRD diesel due to lower fuel consumption if you do a lot of driving. If your journeys are infrequent, the 2.4 petrol engine is also suitable.
Is it worth buying a Patriot with a CVT gearbox?
Only if the gearbox operates smoothly and has a service history. Before buying, test it in real-world driving and ask for records of oil changes.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
