As a Jeep Cherokee owner ('96 XJ) I've been patiently waiting 11 years for Jeep to come up with a product worth replacing it. I kind of like the Patriot, as its shape reminds me of the XJ. I would have wanted more ground clearance, bigger tires and a stronger engine, but a lift and larger tires will not be hard to find in the aftermarket anyway. As for the engine, too bad Chrysler is not offering the 4.0L Nitro engine. However, I drive long distances and Florida is flat, so it will be easy for me to rationalize going with the Patriot's four banger...

I was planning to go shopping for a Patriot this week, but last Sunday I broke my Achilles heel and it will be a while before I can walk and drive normally. In the meantime, I have decided to turn my Patriot research into a blog (http://jeeppatriotblog.blogspot.com), and welcome you to visit it and leave your comments. I will be adding info regularly.

Good luck with your Patriot.