Jeep's robust lineup of SUVs includes overlapping entry-level vehicles. 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 styling cues and off-road 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.

A six-speed automatic replaces the CVT in most models, although a CVT is still equipped with the Freedom Drive II off-road package.