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Are the patriots even 4x4? I think they are AWD, not 4WD (no low range transfer case).If you aren't doing serious off roading and are on a budget, I would recommend the Jeep Patriot. Mine with studded snow tires is practically impossible to get stuck. They use the ABS system to limit wheel slip and it diverts power to the other wheels as well. During our snow days last few years I was having a ball just driving on through some pretty deep stuff. Another advantage is it is not as heavy as some SUV's and smaller so it won't bog down as easily and can be more maneuverable if thats an issue. Averaging 23 MPG doesn't hurt either as a daily driver.
I have had three Jeep Cherokees so I'd vote for them as well but the Patriot's 4X4 system is better than the Cherokees.
Are the patriots even 4x4? I think they are AWD, not 4WD (no low range transfer case).
I'd go with an XJ (Cherokee) from 87-2001, with the 4.0 and the automatic transmission (AW4). Tranfer cases are both decent, the NP231 (command trac) or the NP242 (selec-trac). Rear axles in the older ones do not hold up to larger tires but for a stock rig, I don't think you can beat it. Do not get an 84-86 at all. Bad engines, bad transmission, weaker transfer cases, etc.
Not to threadjack, but I have a growing interest in light wheeling and dispersed car camping, and I'm hoping to get started building a rig that is a balance between driveable as a second car, but capable for medium duty wheeling. Anybody know of any good forums I should check out, especially if they are NW specific like this one is?
Thanks guys.
Sounds like what I do! Except I wheel hard from time to time. NPORA that I mentioned above is a worldwide forum but is somewhat NW-centric as it's founder and much of the 'core group' are in the NW. Since you're in Seattle you're welcome to check out some of our local Pathfinders and will likely be invited to 'ride shotgun' on an upcoming trail run so you can see how they work in the woods. This goes for anyone reading this, PM me if you're interested in Pathfinders and I'll see if I can get you a ride-along in the woods so you can see how they work first-hand.
BTW: My Pathy and I are currently staying in Seattle.