Jeep Jim wrote:
I agree it very well could be more aggressive looking than the Liberty... But as much as I would hate to admit it looksing more aggressive is about all it would be. As far as performance off road its very limited. The Patriot has been tested by some well known Overland Adventurers and they have come to the conclusion that it is only suited for trails of difficultiy levels 2 to 2.5. The Patriots main points that limit are it does not have a gear reducing transfer case and it has Independent Front and Rear Suspensions which makes it more difficult to lift past 2.25". The lift limitations also limit the available tire size it can handle too. In fact if using the stock 17" wheels included in the off-road package the largest tires it can handle are 245/65R17's and from the angles of the photos they look stuffed. I have seen someone say they have successfully mounted 245/75R16's on MOAB wheels but its not truly been confirmed from what I understand. Regardless anything larger than approximately 29.5 very well could rub the Spring catch on the front suspension.
The other major limiting factor is currently the after market companies hardly support this Jeep at all. In fact there is only one lift kit available and its made by Rocky Road Outfitters, none of the bumper manufacturers plan on supporting it so that limits bumpers to custom fabrication for the time being. In fact the CAI I have already installed isn't even released for the Patriot yet, it's of its sister MK the Compass. Other than the suspension kit, roof racks are the most prominent after market add on for us at the moment.
Basically the Jeep Patriot is a Soft-Roader not a true Off-Roader, but for what I use it for its great. Normally I get 24-27 MPG (before the lift) however right now using the winter blend fuel blend and driving on the currently snow covered roads I am only getting 21 mpg, but considering the fact its a 4x4 not many other trucks can even say they get that. I also like that nostalgic look of the old Cherokee and by the end of the day it will sit like one too. I have appointment to rent a shop bay with lift to install my lift kit. Personally I love my Patriot and am very happy with it, but I also already know this is my Gateway Jeep (similar to a Gateway Drug) and already know my next truck will either be an off-road worthy Liberty or Jeep Wrangler.
i am an owner that really loves this ride,,but you are so right ,,no one supports this truck,and i work in the bush i took this thing way past breaking point and i have nothing to complain about,,but i am doing all the mods on my own,,best served buy your self some times,,,