Newtondrivers looking for an SUV with plenty of space, off-road performance, and a reasonable price tag should test drive the 2017 Jeep Patriot, a ride with classic styling yet contemporary features.

Rated the best value in its class, the Patriot delivers on everything you need and leaves behind anything that might weigh you down or act as a distraction. Here’s our full review:

STYLING

The Jeep design team borrowed from the classic shape of the Cherokee, with an athletic, boxy body, signature grille with seven vertical slots, and rounded headlights. It has roof rails for a sporty look and convenience when you need them, as well as the option to add skidplates and tow hooks if you plan to play in the mud. The standard wheels are 16-inch steel, but Jeep makes 17-inch aluminum wheels available as well. 

Inside this five-passenger SUV you'll find supportive seating with no-fuss upholstery, and rear seats that fold flat for optimal cargo space – 53.5 cubic feet, in fact. A tall roofline makes entry and exit easy, not to mention loading and unloading cargo. You also have the option for leather seating and reclining rear seats.

FEATURES

Since the 2017 Patriot has a competitively low MSRP, the base model features just the essentials: a 4-speaker audio system,  AM/FM CD, entertainment system with auxiliary input, hands-free connectivity, and Sirius XM radio. Just one trim level up and you’ll also enjoy heated front seats, power outlets, keyless entry, and automatic headlights.

Available features include leather trim, steering wheel-mounted controls, infotainment with navigation, leather seating, sunroof, and rearview camera. Additionally, the UConnect system lets you access navigation and entertainment in an easy-to-use interface, so you'll never be fumbling with the controls when you're on the road. Tailgaters will love the optional liftgate speakers and audio system with subwoofer that give you entertainment wherever you need it.

PERFORMANCE

The 2017 Patriot comes available with two all-wheel drive modes that will be a huge perk to drivers who go camping or engage in other outdoor activities. The Freedom Drive I gives you full-time all-wheel drive without increasing fuel use or impacting towing ability; while the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package adds all-terrain tires, a low-range mode and 19:1 crawl ratio with torque manipulation that allows you to navigate large rocks and shallow ditches.

You can choose between two engine options and three transmissions when building your 2017 Patriot. The base is a 2-liter inline-4 engine that makes 158 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque, or you can opt for the 2.4-liter inline-4 that churns out 172 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, which is necessary if you want all-wheel drive. You also have the option between a 5- or 6-speed automatic transmission or a continuously variable transmission.

PRICING

Starting at $18,040 MSRP

Category: Review
Tags: 2017 Patriot, SUV, review