2011 Jeep Patriot Review by Leftlane News
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2012 Jeep Patriot in Burlington, VT
First Drive: 2011 Jeep Patriot
Getting Better all the Time
December 27, 2010
/ By Allyson Harwood
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Believe
it or not, the Patriot has been around since model-year 2007. For its
fifth year on the market, it receives a refresh with minor styling
changes and new features. Part of the goal is achieving philosophical
realignment (fancy talk for a crossover, huh?) by updating the styling
on the company's two crossovers. This makes the new Compass look more like the Grand Cherokee, and the Patriot similar to the Liberty and Wrangler.
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After a few years on the market, Jeep
has revised the latest Patriot with changes including a revised front
fascia, some interior revisions and, Jeep says, a more refined driving
experience.
Jeep says that many of the biggest changes are skin deep, but the
automaker's small car-based SUV gains a more aggressive front fascia
with newly standard front fog lamps, a body-colored grille, 17-inch
alloy wheels and some revisions to its rear end. The available 4x4 model
also sits an inch higher than before, although Jeep hasn't specified if
the model's increased ride height significantly changes its off road
ability.
Expeditions West Reviews the Jeep Patriot
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Lightweight Solution to Overland Travel: There are multiple approaches to the same goal; the desire to explore remote and rugged terrain, looking for a little adventure, a stunning photograph or a historic site. From a 14,000 LB EarthRoamer to a 250cc Motocycle, the expedition traveler has many choices. One of the concepts I have been researching recently is the use of an ultra-light and efficient cross-over vehicle for moderate exploration and trail use. There are many times when a heavy and expensive global expedition platform is not required, which allows for the lowest cost of use. With today's fuel costs and the sticker price of new vehicles, a well-built cross-over is something to consider. The challenge
however, has been the lack of suitable options. The Freelander was the
first lightweight SUV option in the US with sufficient trail capability,
but the model was plagued with reliability issues and high cost. That,
combined with poor fuel economy eliminated it as a viable solution.
Other options soon arrived, including the Honda Element, Subaru Forester
and Toyota Highlander. These all had great build quality and good
economy and value, but featured limited trail performance and
protection. |
Enter the Trail Rated Patriot: |