2010 Jeep Patriot Wins in Texas Truck Rodeo

by Larry

A 2009 glowing article entitled "Texas Truck Rodeo" from Reuters News reports that the Texas Auto Writers Association named the Patriot best "Compact SUV of Texas":

They were referring specifically to the 2010 Trail Rated Jeep Patriot rigged out with all the factory trail options.

I love the "Patriot" moniker and this isn't a bad little Jeep for the current times (i.e. gas mileage and function). I just can't quite get used to a front wheel independent suspension and drive...in a Jeep!

I'm sure for most mild off road conditions and through inclement weather while on the on road the Patriot performs very well.

However, I just can't wrap my brain around Jeeps without the solid front axle in 4x4's..like the Wrangler. Even the old XJ Cherokees and ZJ Grand Cherokees did well with the solid front axle..on a uni-body frame system.

Of course the Cherokees couldn't come close to the 29 MPG mileage figures of the Patriot.

I actually like the Patriot Jeep..for what it is...a balance between function and economy.

But think how much better it would be with a traditional Jeep 4x4 drive train.