Does anyone know:
Is the standard 4 wheel drive Freedom Drive I trail rated? or does the trail rated badge only come with the freedon drive II package?

FDII is Trail Rated. Unfortunately FDI is not. So the Trail Rated Badge only comes with the FDII package. If you just want the badge go here:

http://www.quadratec.com/products/55010_102.htm

Or you can have mine when I get my Patriot.:D

Does anyone know:
Is the standard 4 wheel drive Freedom Drive I trail rated? or does the trail rated badge only come with the freedon drive II package?

Here's a great summation of the differences between FDI and FDII (http://www.jeeppatriot.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2152#post2152)

Thanks XJ and PD. I love the look of the Patriot, but I am a little worried that it will be too much like a car. I had an old Cherokee and always thought that I'd buy a new one, until they discontinued it. The Patriot FDII seems like the right replacement, but I like the price of the FD1 package so much better.
I can't wait to test drive it.

Thanks XJ and PD. I love the look of the Patriot, but I am a little worried that it will be too much like a car. I had an old Cherokee and always thought that I'd buy a new one, until they discontinued it. The Patriot FDII seems like the right replacement, but I like the price of the FD1 package so much better.
I can't wait anymore to test drive it.

No problem!

It really comes down to what you need/want. Do you need FDII or do you want FDII? Are you going to take your Patriot offroad? If so how often and how severe?

I want FDII. I don't need FDII. I probably wont take it offroad, its going to be my daily driver and family vehicle. Actually I really don't need FDII at all. It will all come down to a few things: Price, fuel economy, and options (including a diesel) to name a few. Depending on how things work out I might just go with the FDI. I still want FDII though!

I feel the same way.I dont plan on taking it offroading to any great extent.But just knowing that its a more capable vehicle with the FD11 makes me lean in that direction.

I am going to get fd1 with the 5 speed manual

I want the fdII, but I don't need it. I just want to make sure that I feel like I'm driving a Jeep, and not a Dodge Neon.
I can't wait to test drive it.

I want the fdII, but I don't need it. I just want to make sure that I feel like I'm driving a Jeep, and not a Dodge Neon.
I can't wait to test drive it.

Couldn't have said it better myself!!!!! :D

As of right now I think I'm with tbpt in getting the fdI 5-speed, sport, black.

After looking over the Compass there is one concern that I have with the Patriot; Are the tolerances too tight for an offroader? After one trip down a logging road will the doors not close, the hood not open, etc.? Opinions?

hahaha.....all the more reason not to be the first guy down the hill! Let some other clown try it first.

any photos from that trail or vid?

It sounds like it could have been a fun ride.