Jeep revealed two new models at the New York Auto Show in April. One was the four-door Wrangler Unlimited, which we told you all about in our June '06 issue. The other was the production version of the Patriot, the second compact SUV from Jeep based on the same platform that underpins the Compass (and Dodge Caliber).
The Patriot's styling-sort of a mini Commander-looks more off-roady than either the Compass or Caliber, and that's just the start of the differences between them. The Patriot is the only one of the three available in a "Trail Rated" model, thanks to its Freedom Drive II Off-Road package. "Freedom Drive" is what Jeep calls the Patriot's two 4WD systems; Drive I swaps the Patriot's standard front-wheel drive for all-wheel drive with a center diff lock. Drive II is where things get really interesting, with a continuously variable transaxle (called the CVT2L) that features a pseudo-low-range that's engaged when the vehicle's "off-road mode" is activated as well as locking the center differential. Jeep's press material says this drive system "is recommended for true off-road situations that include steep grades, wheel lift, and rock or log climbing." Obviously we'll have to get our hands on one and see just how "true" an off-road situation the Patriot can handle.
The Drive II's Off-Road Package doesn't stop at the low-range CVT. This Patriot sits an inch higher than non-Trail Rated versions "and meets Jeep off-road capability requirements for traction, water fording, articulation, maneuverability, and ground clearance," says Jeep. Ground clearance measures 9 inches, while the Patriot also has a 29-degree approach angle, a 33-degree departure angle, and a 23-degree breakover angle. Brake Lock Differential (BLD) is also included for traction control.
Power for the Patriot comes from a 2.4L four-banger with 172 hp at 6,000 rpm and 165 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. (A 2.0L diesel will be offered outside North America.) Sizewise, its 103.7-inch wheelbase and 173.6-inch overall length are just an inch shorter than those of the Liberty, though Patriot is 2 inches narrower and gives up about 5 inches in overall height to the Lib. Patriot production begins in the third quarter of 2006.
Extreme Pickups from International
The little Patriot not quite what you want out of a 4x4? How about going to the other extreme? International Truck and Engine Corporation, which made a big splash a couple of years ago with its massive CXT pickup, will offer two new variations on the CXT this year: the MXT and RXT. International describes the MXT (shown here) as "a sleek and dominant truck geared for the 'image' truck market"; while the RXT, with its fifth-wheel option, is targeted at "commercial customers in the equestrian, boating, RV, and motorsports markets." Tow ratings for both trucks are huge-8 tons for the MXT, 14.75 tons for the fifth-wheel-equipped RXT-yet both are priced somewhat south of the CXT. International, in fact, calls the MXT "the most affordable pickup in the XT family" with a base price starting at $69,900. The top-line CXT starts at $115,000. Gotta have one? International dealers are taking orders as we speak.
4-Wheel Jamboree Turns 25
It's hard for some of us old-timers to believe, but the 4-Wheel Jamboree Nationals, produced by The Promotion Company/Special Events Performance Series, marks its 25th anniversary in 2006. Lots of special events (pun intended) are planned as part of the celebration, including the giveaway of a special Silver Anniversary Edition Chevrolet Silverado. You can enter the sweepstakes by visiting www.familyevents.com or by registering at one of the year's Jambo events. The winning entry from entries collected throughout the season will be drawn at the Indy Fall 4-Wheel Jamboree Nationals in September.
The Special Events folks also commissioned Brutus-Avenger Racing to build a special monster truck, called Metallic Mayhem, as part of the celebration. MM made a smashing debut at the Texas Jamboree in April.
It's not too late to get in on the anniversary action. The Summer 4-Wheel Jamboree in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, takes place July 7-9; the Bond Auto Parts 4-Wheel Jamboree Nationals happens August 5-6 in Essex Junction, Vermont; and the granddaddy of them all, the 25th O'Reilly Auto Parts 4-Wheel & Off Road Jamboree Nationals in Indianapolis, takes place September 22-24.
Wanna Race your Nissan?
The factory can help with its just-released Nissan Motorsports catalog. Not to be confused with the line of NISMO accessories for street vehicles, the parts listed in this catalog are for hard-core competition. And yes, there is a section devoted to truck and SUV parts, ranging from racing clutches and ring-and-pinion sets to fiberglass body pieces. The catalog is available at Nissan dealers, or you can call 310.538.2610 or e-mail nmc.race@nissan-usa.com.
Heavier-Duty Titan?
Speaking of Nissan, industry trade journal Automotive News reports that the Japanese maker will build a commercial version of its fullsize Titan pickup when the truck is revamped in 2009. Aimed at the domestic 3/4-ton truck market, the new, beefier Titan will also be available with a diesel engine option, though a diesel supplier has not been named.
Entries Open for Nevada Trophy
Looking for something a little different to do with your 4x4? Check out the Nevada Trophy, an event its organizers call a combination of Camel Trophy, the Warn Challenge, and geocaching. Now in its 10th year, the Nevada Trophy is a three-day competition in which participants are given a list of waypoints to find using GPS navigation. Along the way there's plenty of off-roading, in addition to "special tasks" to keep things interesting. While the organizers have a list of gear they suggest each participant bring-two GPS units, a laptop computer, winter clothes, snow chains (the event is held in December around Lovelock, Nevada, which is northeast of Reno), and so on-they say you don't have to have a highly modified rig to compete. More stock vehicles have won the trophy than not.
The Nevada Trophy will be held December 8-10. For more information, log on to www.offroadexperience.com.
Sierra Trek Turns 40
You've been reading about the California Association of Four Wheel Drive Clubs' Sierra Trek for years now-decades, even, as the popular event turns 40 this year. Maybe it's time you joined in the fun. The Sierra Trek has a long-standing reputation as a family event, due not just to its great four-wheeling but also because of its home-cooked meals, games for kids and adults, and live entertainment each night. Trail rides range from SUV and historic tours of the Gold Country to the hard-core granite challenges of the Fordyce Creek OHV route. This year the Trek takes place August 9-15, and registration will sell out. Call the Cal 4 Wheel office at 800/4x4-FUNN (494-3866) or log on to www.cal4wheel.com for more info.
Tire Makers Support Racing
Toyo is expanding its involvement in off-road competition by sponsoring the 2006 Xtreme Rock Race Association season. The XRRA's series will be televised on the Speed Channel's "Lucas Oil Presents" show. For more information on the XRRA's five-race season, log on to www.rockrace.com.
Also, Mickey Thompson has announced that it's continuing to sponsor the Tough Truck Challenge at this summer's 4-Wheel Jamboree Nationals. As part of its sponsorship, Mickey T is funding an end-of-season payout of $8,700 to the top 10 Tough Truck drivers.