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:

    Seat Belt Lock Out
    The center rear seat belt system has a lock out feature that will not allow you to extract the center webbing unless the rear seat upper latch is engaged. ...

    Towing
    It may be offroadable, but the Patriot has the same shortcoming of most front-drive-based platforms: Its maximum towing capacity is a mere 2,000 pounds when equipped with the Trailer Tow package, ...

    Engine Break-In Recommendations
    A long break-in period is not required for the engine and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle. Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km). After the initial 60 miles (100 ...