Does anyone own a Jeep Patriot or Jeep Compass and have an opinion?

[kandrathe]

I've usually done that too, but this time I think I want something either brand new or new enough that it's essentially brand new. I just started a new job a few months ago that's far enough away that I really need reliable transportation. Cabs and public transportation are not options, and my current '03 Olds Alero is reliable enough for me now, but it is starting to show some wear. I am not a car guy and have no idea how to fix it if it doesn't start.

I can, but don't repair my own vehicles. Dependable is key. Once they are not I look to move onto something better.

Also, we had a hell of a crappy winter. Even my wife is starting to get sick of driving her tiny hatchback in the snow. Every winter that passes makes 4WD more appealing to us. We might just trade both of our old cars for new(ish) 4WD vehicles at the same time. I imagine we could swing a very good deal that way. It's not something we are prepared to do right now, but within a year or so we might be.

Aye. My wife stays nearer to home, so she uses the SUV most of the time for short trips. I commute an hour each way, so I use the one with better mileage. When we get bad storms, I'll take the SUV 4WD, and she'll stay home or wait for the plows to clear. I used to be able to telecommute more often, until my "new boss" was "old school" and didn't believe in such modern frivolities. Last week I changed to be working for the CIO, so we'll see how receptive he is to more telecommuting. More than the 2 hours of time, and less stress, it was usually at least $50 a week cheaper.

I suspected as such. Just to be clear - I'm not set on a SUV for myself. I would actually prefer a compact 4-cyl pickup truck with 4WD, but they are non-existent. I'm also looking very closely at a Jeep Wrangler. The base model is pretty close to the prices of the 4WD Patriot and Compass, but it has way worse fuel economy thanks to its standard V6. Gas is expensive in Canada.

Trucks and full sized vans are licensed different here (potential farm and work vehicles) and usually have V6 or V8. But, yes, worse mileage. Last winter shed any interest I may have had in diesel, electric or hybrid for awhile. I believe you are correct that they don't make 4WD light duty 4cyl trucks anymore.