Grrr...if there is one thing Jeep has managed to do...it's confuse the hell out of me regarding their transmissions. I understand we have a choice of two...either a manual 5 speed or a CVT...but...Jeep has listed three available tranmissions when you build and price:

1. CVT with off-road crawl ratio (ok)
2. 5-speed manual (ok)
3. CVT 2 (huh...what's this?)

Now...they further cloud the issue with two different "DRIVE" systems...which I'm assuming they mean "4WD" systems? These are Freedom Drive 1 and Freedom Drive 2.

What I'm guessing is...FD2 is the CVT with a built-in low gear ratio...which is selectable. This is required as part of the trail rated package.

Now...FD1...this is what baffles me. I'm guessing this is similar to what most SUV's offer...computer controlled part-time 4WD...but this one has a selectable "lock mode"? Further...is FD1 available for both the 5 speed manual transmission and CVT?

If so the combination of manual transmission and FD1 drive seems like the best option for me...good gas mileage and 4WD on demand.

On a side note...you could not pay me to drive a CVT...I don't want anything but me controlling engine rpm.

For Jeep's explanation follow this link. (http://www.jeep.com/4x4/index.html) It will show you all the different 4x4 systems and explain how they work.

Quick and dirty as follows:

CVT vs. CVT2
- Basically, CVT2 is a second generation which is used in the Compass and Patriot.

CVT2 vs. CVT2L
-The CVT2L is what gives the Trail-rated Jeep Patriot w/Freedom Drive II its 19:1 low ratio. This system acts like a transfer case, enabling the Patriot to drop into a lower "gear ratio" for more torque in severe off-road conditions (well, as severe as the Patriot will be able to handle anyways).

FD1
-This is an AWD system that works as most other AWD systems do. It stays in FWD most of the time, but when it sense slip it has the ability to send a percentage (60%..?) to the rear wheels.
However, what sets this vehicle aside from most AWD vehicles is the ability to "lock" the center differential electronically. Hence, you can pull a lever and lock the vehicle into a 50/50 split. This is obviously used for deep snow, gravel paths, maybe mild off-road, or when you are stuck. This does not act like a 4WD-Lo...it replicates a 4WD-Hi.