Manual box and off-road? Impossible
The problem with the manual box is that you can't take advantage of the "extreme" Freedom-II mode. That's because the off-road package only relies on the CVT to handle the load ($2,410, including skid plates, 17-inch off-road tires and fog lights).
In order to enjoy the flexibility of the manual transmission, you have to content yourself with the FWD model, which has a tough time dealing with extended drives on gravel roads. You can also opt for the basic Freedom-I 4WD system, also found on the Compass. If your aspirations with the Patriot don't include getting over mountains, this system will quite do the trick, especially since it features a 50/50 locking mode.
The beauty of the Patriot is that it offers both 4WD systems even in base Sport model. As a result, this Jeep is the least expensive 4WD vehicle available in Canada and, together with the Wrangler, the only ones to be priced under $20,000.
A familiar interior
On board, you could swear you're sitting inside a Compass or a Caliber. And that's a good thing because the modern, techno-styled interior is well designed. The cockpit is airy and friendly, the available room for passengers prevents any claustrophobia symptoms, the seats are comfortable and the cargo area can swallow just about anything you can find at the renovation center... well, almost.
My only complaint goes to the rough plastics that are so unpleasant to touch and that make up too many interior surfaces. Not very malleable, this material has a cheap feel and what's more, the panels don't benefit from a good build quality. The overall lack of fit and finish compromises an otherwise surprisingly good Patriot.
Yet again, with a starting price of $16,995, excuses are aplenty...
If you wish to test-drive or receive a price quotation for this vehicle, you only have to perform a retailer / dealer search in your region.
photo:DaimlerChrysler, Rob Rothwell
The problem with the manual box is that you can't take advantage of the "extreme" Freedom-II mode. That's because the off-road package only relies on the CVT to handle the load ($2,410, including skid plates, 17-inch off-road tires and fog lights).
 |
| The Patriot is the least expensive 4WD vehicle available in Canada. |
In order to enjoy the flexibility of the manual transmission, you have to content yourself with the FWD model, which has a tough time dealing with extended drives on gravel roads. You can also opt for the basic Freedom-I 4WD system, also found on the Compass. If your aspirations with the Patriot don't include getting over mountains, this system will quite do the trick, especially since it features a 50/50 locking mode.
The beauty of the Patriot is that it offers both 4WD systems even in base Sport model. As a result, this Jeep is the least expensive 4WD vehicle available in Canada and, together with the Wrangler, the only ones to be priced under $20,000.
A familiar interior
On board, you could swear you're sitting inside a Compass or a Caliber. And that's a good thing because the modern, techno-styled interior is well designed. The cockpit is airy and friendly, the available room for passengers prevents any claustrophobia symptoms, the seats are comfortable and the cargo area can swallow just about anything you can find at the renovation center... well, almost.
My only complaint goes to the rough plastics that are so unpleasant to touch and that make up too many interior surfaces. Not very malleable, this material has a cheap feel and what's more, the panels don't benefit from a good build quality. The overall lack of fit and finish compromises an otherwise surprisingly good Patriot.
Yet again, with a starting price of $16,995, excuses are aplenty...
 |
| The interior is pleasant to look at but not to touch. |
If you wish to test-drive or receive a price quotation for this vehicle, you only have to perform a retailer / dealer search in your region.
photo:DaimlerChrysler, Rob Rothwell
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