Lightweight Solution to Overland Travel:

There are multiple approaches to the same goal; the desire to explore remote and rugged terrain, looking for a little adventure, a stunning photograph or a historic site. From a 14,000 LB EarthRoamer to a 250cc Motocycle, the expedition traveler has many choices. One of the concepts I have been researching recently is the use of an ultra-light and efficient cross-over vehicle for moderate exploration and trail use. There are many times when a heavy and expensive global expedition platform is not required, which allows for the lowest cost of use. With today's fuel costs and the sticker price of new vehicles, a well-built cross-over is something to consider.

The challenge however, has been the lack of suitable options. The Freelander was the first lightweight SUV option in the US with sufficient trail capability, but the model was plagued with reliability issues and high cost. That, combined with poor fuel economy eliminated it as a viable solution. Other options soon arrived, including the Honda Element, Subaru Forester and Toyota Highlander. These all had great build quality and good economy and value, but featured limited trail performance and protection.

Enter the Trail Rated Patriot:

I had the opportunity to work with the Trail Rated Patriot for over a month, doing off-highway testing and was able to perform a detailed analysis of its road and trail capabilities. Within its design limits (and even a bit beyond), the Patriot is a real Jeep and tackles terrain that would send all of the other compact, car-based SUV's to the nearest bypass.

Why it works:

Engineering Purpose- The Patriot was designed from the start to support the Trail Rated requirements, which were established by Jeep Engineering and the Nevada Automotive Testing Center (NATC) to objectively (with repeatability) predict trail capability. This means that even though the Patriot is sold in the cross-over vehicle segment it must meet minimum trail attributes. Even one of the head engineers from the Power Wagon project was on the team to ensure the Patriot's trail performance.

Maneuverability
Ground Clearance
Traction
Articulation
Water Fording

With the Trail Rated Package and Freedom Drive II, the Patriot includes these key features:

1. Hill Descent Control- Uses the vehicle brakes to maintain descent speeds of 4-6 MPH in low gear and 3 mph in reverse.
2. Off-Road Brake Traction Control- When required, the traction control system will use the brakes to slow or stop a spinning wheel and send power to the axle with greater traction.
3. 19:1 Crawl Ratio- Being a Continuously Variable Transmission, the ratio is as low as 2.3:1 with a 8.1:1 final drive ratio
4. Off-Road mode engine and transmission calibration- In low, with the 4wd Lock mode engaged, the system raises the CVT rpm to maximize compression braking and provide maximum spark advance to the motor (monitored by the active spark knock sensor).
5. 4WD Lock Mode- Commands maximum torque to the rear axle (electromagnetically controlled coupling)
6. Additional ground clearance- 1" Taller springs and improved dampening
7. P215/65 R17 All-Terrain Tires (28x8.5")
8. Front and Rear tow hooks
9. Engine and transmission skid plates
10. Fuel tank skid plates
11. Cabin air filtration
12. Fog Lamps
13. Seat height adjust
14. Three Mode Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
15. Heavy-duty Cooling (CVT cooler, Engine cooler and high-cap cooling fans)
16. HD Alternator
17. Improved body sealing and relocated driveline vents
18. Reinforced Rear Lateral Links (control arms).

Approach Angle: 29.6
Break-over Angle: 23.3
Departure Angle: 34.2
Running Ground Clearance: 9"
Turning Circle: 35.6'
Water Fording: 19" @ 5 mph