Driving Impressions

Chrysler's 2.4-liter four-cylinder provides just enough vim to keep the scenery passing, but lead-footed drivers will probably be disappointed. The five-speed manual transmission shifts smoothly. The continuously variable transmission takes a few moments to reach its powerband, but it delivers adequate performance once there. High-speed stability is good.

Interior materials are sub-par, and the climate controls aren't particularly intuitive. Front seats offer ample cushion support, but some of the manual adjustments take considerable effort.

    See also:

    Advanced Front Air Bag Features
    The Advanced Front Air Bag system has multistage driver and front passenger air bags. This system provides output appropriate to the severity and type of collision as determined by the Occupant ...

    Air Bag System Components
    Your vehicle may be equipped with the following air bag system components: • Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC) • Air Bag Warning Light • Steering Wheel and Column • Instrument Pane ...

    In the Cabin
    The Patriot's interior quality isn't class-leading, but it's acceptable for a car of this price — bearing in mind that the starting price is for a seriously stripped-down Sport model. (Option pa ...