Jeep Patriot Climbs to Top of Its Segment in KBB.com 5-Year Cost to Own Awards

NATICK, MASS (02/14/2013)(readMedia)-- The 2013 Jeep Patriot is already the lowest-priced SUV on the market, but according to Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com, the capable compact is also the most affordable in its segment when it comes to long-term cost of ownership. Topping the Compact SUV/Crossover category, the Patriot recently received a 2013 5-Year Cost to Own Award from the auto-research site, with the model estimated to cost drivers just $35,161 during five years of ownership.

KBB.com's 5-Year Cost to Own Awards are not only determined by each vehicle's initial purchase price and subsequent depreciation during a five-year period, but also its out-of-pocket expenses, including costs for financing, insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs and state fees. The Jeep Patriot bested the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and 2013 Honda CR-V to nab its segment award, with KBB.com editors noting the off-road capability of its available Freedom Drive II 4WD system.

"Most vehicles in the Patriot's segment are SUVs in name only, but Jeep brings legitimate all-conditions performance into the picture, and you won't pay dearly for it at the pump either," said Richard Gill, owner of Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Natick, Massachusetts Jeep dealership. "The Patriot's low price point attracts a lot of customers into our showroom, but buyers should take extra comfort in knowing that KBB.com has found that the vehicle remains a great deal even as the years pass."

Jeep claims that the upcoming 2014 Patriot will cost even less to own, thanks to the efficient and intuitive design of a new six-speed PowerTech automatic transmission. Lightweight and compact, the available gearbox features a stepped shift schedule for maximum fuel economy during city driving, while engine rpm is drastically reduced in sixth gear to improve highway gas mileage. Cost of ownership is lowered even further with the transmission's fill-for-life design, which eliminates the need for filter and fluid changes during normal driving conditions.

Though the 2014 Jeep Patriot won't start arriving at dealerships until the second quarter of this year, existing models continue to gain popularity in the showroom. Last month, the compact SUV saw its best January sales ever, moving 5,248 units in the United States. That tally was up by 32 percent compared to sales from January 2011, making the Patriot the third-best-selling Jeep model behind the iconic Grand Cherokee and the Wrangler.

"It's hard not to live in the shadows of renowned vehicles like the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler, but for Boston drivers who want a nimble ride in the city that can still get after it during snowy excursions to the mountains, the Patriot stands alone," added Gill. "With its new optional automatic transmission, those adventures are going to be even more fuel efficient and fun."

About Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:

Family-owned Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has been helping Metro West drivers find new and used Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram vehicles for the past 45 years. They also provide expert auto service and OEM Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep parts, all backed up by their friendly, professional staff. Check out their wide selection of new and pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs at www.brighamgillmotorcars.com, or stop by their dealership, located at 817 Worcester Road (Route 9) in Natick, Massachusetts. You can reach them by phone at 877-881-6196 or like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brighamgill to get the latest Jeep, Chrysler, Ram and Dodge news.