2013 Jeep Patriot Preview

Pros and Cons*
Pros
A roomy cabin, competitive price and selection of different 4-wheel drive systems make the 2013 Jeep Patriot quite appealing.

Cons
The Patriot’s noisy CVT, rough engine and heavy fuel consumption disappoint.

Price
MSRP for the Sport 4×2 is $17,995, with $1,400 extra for an automatic CVT.

The Sport 4×4 starts at $20,695.

The North 4×2 is available for $21,695, with an additional $2,400 for 4-wheel drive, which brings the price up to $24,095.

You can get the North All Season 4×2 for $22,640 or $25,040 for the 4×4.

The Limited 4×2 starts at $24,695. When equipped with a 4×4 transmission, this premium model is sold for $26,895.

Fuel Economy
Depending on the chosen transmission, the 2.0-litre engine is rated around 9 L/100km for the city and 7 L/100 km on the highway.

The same rating goes for the 2.4-litre engine coupled with a manual transmission (9 L – city, 7 L – highway). It’s an extra 0.2 L/100km for the 4×4.

The 2.4-litre engine, coupled with a CVT, tops out at around 9.7 L/100 km – city and 7.5 L/100 km – highway.

Exterior Styling
The SUV’s frame is undeniably rugged and masculine yet alluring, with a distinctive grille and rounded headlights.

Drivetrain
The 4-cylinder, 2.0-litre engine, which delivers 158 hp and 141 lb-ft of torque, is only available on some, 2-wheel drive versions.

Otherwise, the 4-cylinder, 2.4-litre engine yields 172 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque.

These two drivetrains can be coupled with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an automatic CVT.

Cargo Capacity
Depending on seat configuration, the Patriot’s loading volume varies between 652 litres and 1,535 litres.

Safety
Endowed with six airbags, reactive seat head restraints, antilock brakes and electronic stability control, the 2013 Jeep Patriot was awarded the IIHS Top Safety Pick.

Comparable Models
Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4

*References
Charrette, Benoit, L’Annuel de l’automobile 2013, Montréal, Transcontinental, 2012, p. 334
Descarries, Éric, L’Auto 2013, Montréal, Les Éditions La Presse, 2012, p. 326
www.jeep.ca

Source : www.auto123.com