2011 Jeep Patriot Latitude X

The 2011 Patriot is Jeep's compact SUV, the one that shares its bones with the Compass and is a more affordable alternative to the Cherokee. It drives with a light, easygoing feel that makes it simple to maneuver around town, though the ride gets a bit busy on rough pavement. Inside, the cabin is straightforward and roomy enough for four, with a cargo area that swallows gear for weekend trips. The Latitude X is the loaded Patriot, skipping the Sport and Latitude trims to get things like a standard Freedom Drive II off-road package with hill descent control and a continuously variable transmission option. Its 2.4L I4 makes 172 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque, sent through the five-speed manual to all four wheels, which gives you confident traction in snow or mud for 24 mpg combined.