Jeep has a two-pronged approach to the entry-level SUV segment. The Patriot and its fraternal twin, the Compass, aim at slightly different customers. While the Compass is primarily an on-road vehicle, the Patriot has the traditional Jeep cues and capabilities to appeal to Jeep's traditional clientele. The most common engine is a 172-bhp 2.4L I-4, coupled to either a 5-speed manual or Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVT). Although the base Patriot is FWD, Jeep has two 4WD drivetrain configurations for customers who want to go off-road. The base Sport model features an attractive low price, but excludes common features like air conditioning, power windows, power door locks and remote keyless entry. The more reasonably equipped Latitude model is priced from $20,000.

The Patriot wears revised exterior styling for 2011. Changes include new front and rear fascias and new body cladding. Suspension changes and new 17 inch wheels increase the ride height of 4x4 models.