2015 Jeep Patriot

I have owned Jeeps since 1999, and will continue to be loyal to the brand as long as they make quality vehicles. I am not overly enthusiastic about the FIAT influence to the brand, but will see how these vehicles perform. I was very disappointed by the new Jeep Cherokee Sport since I was so happy with my last Cherokee Sport which was a 2000 model. I am happy with the Jeep Patriot, it's a solid small to mid-size SUV and its size is good for a small family of three to four people. I like the overall design and basic controls along with the new Bluetooth features.

I just love my Jeep Patriot. It's the best small SUV I ever owned.

My criteria were really only three things - 4WD, small SUV/crossover, and price close to $20,000. The Jeep Patriot was really the only vehicle that matched all three, and I love it. It's the only vehicle in its segment that can get that price point with some basic features. Most others in the segment start at around $24k for a 2WD with no options. Options added to my Jeep Patriot were 4WD, basic power package (includes heated mirrors, which are nice), upgraded motor to the 2.4L, and upgraded transmission to the 6-speed automatic. . So far, it's a great vehicle. It handles nicely, feels rather nimble like a car, and has good visibility. I like the ride height. It's not the highest sitting vehicle on the road, but it's high enough that you will almost always be able to see around you. The vehicle also has a very ''retro'' feel to it. Most other vehicles in the segment are all about appearing new and cutting edge. This vehicle has classic Jeep styling, which I really like. The interior is basic, but very functional and cleanly presented. The only negative about the vehicle was the stock tires. They are just not very good, and I replaced them with a set of premium tires that dramatically increased the ride quality, braking, and handling of the vehicle.

I could nit-pic many things about the vehicle. For the type of car I was looking for in the price range, it was the best of all the ones I looked at and test drove, but it is not perfect. My biggest issue is visibility behind the driver being restricted by the size of the headrest. It is difficult to see around. Don't get me wrong. I like the vehicle and find it fun to drive. There are just a number of things I would tweak to fit my body and my desires if I had the option to.

My car is a Jeep Attitude. I feel that this car is basic, no Bluetooth, no rear view mirror camera, no digital radio view.

Seats made of poor quality material-won't last for long

The lack of automatic headlights is simply a failure. The small gas tank (less than 14 gallon capacity) results in a limited range, that is one of my biggest regrets with this vehicle. A more powerful V-6 would really be an attractive option, and one I wish I had. Finally, the U-connect is challenging to use, and I drop many calls. In spite of all that, I do love the vehicle, and will make do with the shortcomings.

The hood is a real issue. The brackets suck and the hood bounces around when driving. I am very disappointed with the estimated mileage per gallon... it is several miles below what was advertised.

I love my new Jeep. However the driver's side seat should have an option for height adjustment. It sits too low. Also my Jeep Patriot lacks take off power from stop, I was shocked at the overall lagging of the engine.

I really love my Jeep Patriot, I know that a 4cyl wouldn't have as much power as a 6 cyl, but I had a Chrysler 200 with a 4 cyl and it had more immediate power for passing or coming onto the highway from a ramp, the Patriot takes a little longer, but it does get you there in time and safely. I like that it sits higher than a car, when dealing with snow and low-lying flooding roads (which happens a lot where I live) this is the perfect vehicle for me. I used to spend $300 a month on gas commuting, but now it's a fun trip and is only costing me $140 per month.