What are the major differences between the Jeep Patriot, Compass, and Liberty?

Hey guys, I’m curious, aside from their body styles, what are the main distinctions between the Jeep Patriot, Compass, and Liberty? I’ve been checking out prices online, and it seems like all three with 4WD fall within a similar price range. I haven’t had a chance to visit a dealership yet, just doing some browsing online today.

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I haven’t driven a Patriot before, but from what I’ve seen in the specs, it seems pretty similar to the Compass.

The Liberty is a whole different story. My dad has one, so I’ve had some time behind the wheel. It sits higher than the Patriot and Compass, almost at eye level with trucks. It’s a larger vehicle, but surprisingly easy to handle and maneuver despite its size.

Probably the biggest contrast is in the engine department. My Compass runs on a 2.4L CVT (I4) engine, which I really enjoy. It’s smooth on transitions from flat roads to hills, and it’s quite fuel-efficient for its size. I’m not certain about the engine in my dad’s Liberty—maybe a 3.7L V6?—but the Liberty’s engine packs more punch. Accelerating in the Compass feels quick and responsive, but in the Liberty, it’s like being pushed back into the seat with all that power. However, you do pay for that power with lower fuel efficiency, and the Liberty doesn’t match up to the Compass or Patriot in that regard.

If gas prices were as low as they were a decade ago and I had the choice, I’d lean towards the Liberty. I like the higher seating position and the extra power. But given today’s fuel costs, I’m really satisfied with the Compass (plus, I personally prefer its design over the Patriot, but that’s just me).

Oh, and I almost forgot another difference. I think the Compass (and maybe the Patriot) are primarily front-wheel drive vehicles that can switch to AWD or full-time 4WD. A common criticism of the Compass and Patriot platforms was the lack of 4-Low capability, although I’m not sure if Jeep offers that option now. The Liberty, on the other hand, typically functions as a rear-wheel drive vehicle and often includes 4-Low, which is handy for off-road situations.

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The Compass and Patriot are front-wheel drive vehicles with rear-wheel drive assistance, both based on the Dodge Caliber platform. Neither model features a true two-speed transfer case; the CVT versions offer a “low range,” but it’s not as low as what you find in the Liberty.

In contrast, the Liberty is more of a traditional truck-based SUV with a solid rear axle. It operates primarily as rear-wheel drive with an optional selectable 4WD system and a genuine two-speed transfer case. All Liberty models come equipped with a two-speed transfer case offering a low range of 2.72:1.