Liberty or Patriot?
 

Hello all,

I am a current owner of a 2000 Chevy Blazer. I love this SUV but with everything, time gets the best of you, or in this case, my Blazer. I am looking to replace it and instead of getting a less used 2005 Blazer (last year they were made) I am looking to Jeep for its replacement as they are the only ones that seem to be able to match my 2000 Chev performance for cost.

What I was looking for from the members on this forum is pros and cons to each the Liberty and Patriot. To narrow the field, I am looking at comparing the top end Pat to the Sport Liberty. Cost for both the vehicle and fuel economy are my biggest factors. Total usefulness is my next factor, loading, pulling, off road ability, that kind of thing. Lastly any other pointers that anyone can come up with.

I am trending towards the Pat as it is easier on gas and the wallet yet still getting all the comforts of the Liberty. Also, if I find I don't like the Pat after a year or so.. I can take it in for a switch to the Liberty.

Please.. any thoughts would be great!

Cheers!

Re: Liberty or Patriot?
 

I found a nice article on the liberty versa's the patriot and they claim the liberty gets 21-24.4 mpg while the patriot is running 17-19 at speeds of 65-75 mph. Ck out the site http://blogs.trucktrend.com/6215168/...iot/index.html
Still keep an eye for replies on your question as other members have these vehicles and will for sure give their opinions

Re: Liberty or Patriot?
 

This is not even close. First, the Patriot is NOT a real Jeep, it's a Dodge Caliber dressed up as a jeep. I owned a 06 Liberty Renegade, great first Jeep. Liberty is one of the strongest platforms Chrysler build(for everyday driving and winter fun) The Patriot is not an off road vehicle and it has a few suspension problems. The leaking shocks problem seems to have been resolved but the other components of the steering and suspension have not.
Patriot is basically a car with car parts and suspension. My brother-in-law has a 00 Blazer its a good truck comparable to a Liberty. To go from a Blazer to a Patriot :( I don't believe you will be happy.
And if you want to put a smile on your face from ear to ear, get a JK. The 3.8L engine is strong and good on gas when compared to a Liberty.

Re: Liberty or Patriot?
 

Thanks for the replies! I have gone and looked at both vehicles side by each and I am going to go with the Liberty. Thing of it is now, the dealer tells me that the Liberty is going to come out with the new 3.6 engine that is in the GC right now. They are just not sure when. They thought they were going to be in the 2011 Liberty's, but not looking that way now. Would they change the engine halfway through production or wait for the 2012s?

That I would like to know. More power for less gas!

Cheers!

Re: Liberty or Patriot?
 

Adanac, where are you in Alberta? I'm in Cold Lake, if you're nearby I'd be happy to let you take a slightly modified Liberty out for a spin.

Comparing the Libby to the Patriot is an apples to oranges affair.

The 3.7 paired with the 42RLE and either TCase will net you near 24mpgs on stock sized rubber (225/75R16) and a tailwind. I run 31x10.5s on mine with a lift and a pile of other stuff and I get about 20mpg highway and really crappy mileage around town. I didn't buy the Jeep for mileage.

The 3.7 is a reliable motor, there are virtually millions of them out there. Dakotas, Durangos, Chargers, Magnums all used them. Service records are pretty good.

The Libby is heavy, built really solid and can tow 5000lbs with the auto, 3500lb with the stick.

Like some of the other posters have said, the Patriot is an AWD car. Sure thay use stuff like ESP/ABS and TC and the software can mimick lockers pretty well. They are pretty capable off pavement but not so much off road. I'm sure I'll get flack from the TJ/JK/YJ and XJ guys when I tell them that my KJ can keep up to a similarly built "real" Jeep. If you plan on off roading at all and want to have some pretty nice creature comforts and a good ride get the Liberty. Even more so if you have a family. There's really not all that much space in a 2dr Wrangler for kids/dog/baggage.

If your within a few hours of me the offer stands. I can come and meet you somewhere if you like.

Re: Liberty or Patriot?
 

Crap. Just saw when the OP was made. You've probably already made your decision.

Re: Liberty or Patriot?
 

You still get full points Bird ... just for bein' such a nice fella :240: