Patriot in the Market

There's a lot to like about the Patriot. Even after you adjust the price to add the missing basic features — air conditioning, power windows, locks and side mirrors, etc. — it's pretty reasonably priced. As for its place in the market, this brand with ostensible SUV credibility is coming to this segment awfully late. At least a newfound interest in fuel economy is in its favor, particularly for a capable off-roader, most of which are heavy-duty and inefficient. That the Patriot can't tackle the toughest trails is irrelevant; knowing that one could go off-road has been more than enough to satisfy many an SUV buyer over the years. Authenticity — real or inferred — sells.

I was baffled that Jeep was building two models so similar in size and price off this platform. As it turns out, it's a good thing they did. The Compass itself is baffling enough. Before either came out, industry analysts and other random smarty pantses pondered if a lighter-duty model with Jeep's first-ever application of front-wheel drive would hurt the brand. The answer is no. A poorly executed model — of any configuration — would. Now at least buyers have an alternative.

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    Ignition Off Operation
    The power sunroof switches can be programmed to remain active for up to approximately ten minutes after the ignition switch has been turned OFF. Refer to “Electronic Vehicle Information Center ...

    Operating Instructions - Uconnect™ Multimedia (Satellite) Mode
    NOTE: The ignition switch must be in the ON/RUN or ACC position to operate the radio. SEEK Buttons Press and release the SEEK buttons to search for the next channel in Satellite mode. Press the ...

    Overdrive Operation
    The automatic transmission includes an electronically controlled Overdrive (fourth and fifth gears). The transmission will automatically shift into the Overdrive gear if the following conditions ...