Jeep Patriot scoops 4X4 of the Year award

The Jeep Patriot 2.0 CRD Sport has won the 4x4 of the Year award from specialist magazine 4x4 and MPV Drive.

Launched in the UK earlier this year, the vehicle has sold 800 units to date.

It has so far proved appealing to customers who want a Jeep which is capable of on and off-road activities, but who also want the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a family hatchback.

"The Jeep Patriot is quicker than the Land Rover Freelander 2, more able off-road than the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV 4, pumps out less CO2 than the Nissan X-Trail and has a boot around the size of the VW Tiguan's," said Bob Murray, editor of 4x4 and MPV Driver magazine.

"The Patriot is a cracking car to drive and promises to be a decent ownership proposition. It adds a welcome dash of adventure and US style to a sometimes bland SUV market."

The magazine also praised the Jeep as the most economical vehicle ever produced by the company, as well as for being the least polluting when compared emissions to manufacturers of smaller vehicles.

"We are absolutely delighted to receive this top award for our latest model in the Jeep range," said Simon Elliott, managing director of Chrysler UK - owners of the Jeep brand.

"This eco-Jeep offers motorists everything they look for when buying a car - a fuel-efficient diesel engine capable of nearly 43mpg, an impressive list of standard equipment, four-wheel drive technology, a spacious interior and high levels of safety and reliability all at a very affordable price."

Prices start from £15,995.