What's Hot: Sky Slider roof, compact proportions, improved creature comforts
What's Not: Weak engine, cheap interior, not enough trailability for a Jeep
Our Take: For those who like the Patriot, but need a V-6 and more room.
From the Logbook:
* "Who tuned the suspension on this thing?"
* "ESP way too intrusive."
* "Big improvement over previous generation in creature comforts."
* "The Sky Slider roof, while cool, won't save this disappointment."
* "Can we have the rear limited-slip back?"
* "Where is the 4.0L option?"
What's Hot: Explosive powertrain, fun to drive on fire roads, unassuming to others
What's Not: IRS, too-stiff suspension, rattly structure, confusing controls
Our Take: A great family tow vehicle, but take a look at the Xterra if wheeling is your thing.
From the Logbook:
* "Felt like the hatch was going to defect and join the sand at the dunes."
* "Why does the volume button turn up the heat?"
* "Where is the off-road package? I can only imagine how much better it would be with a rear locker."
* "Wow! This thing is fast!!!"
* "Rear cargo area is functional, but scuffs too easily."
* "I finally figured out the radio-sounds great."
What's Hot: Turbodiesel thrills, sportscar-like driver, comfortable cockpit, great four-wheel-drive system
What's Not: Too low to the ground, not enough tire
Our Take: A great drivetrain and four-wheel-drive system let down by poor ground clearance and tires.
From the Logbook:
* "With the turbos spooled up, is like being blasted from a cannon."
* "Amazingly powerful, even at high rpm."
* "Hands down my choice for the dunes."
* "Great fuel economy."
* "No hunting for gears, no screaming revs, no clatter-just seamless, efficient power."