AUBURN HILLS, MI - Voting after their annual Truck Rodeo in San Antonio, members of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) named the 2010 Jeep Patriot "Compact SUV of Texas," giving Jeep Patriot top honors over competitors in the compact SUV category.

"This is certainly an honor for Jeep," said Michael Manley, president and CEO - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "We're proud the Patriot proved its off-road prowess at the Texas Truck Rodeo. The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot 4x4 is hands down the most capable and affordable SUV in the compact segment."

More than 40 TAWA members were given two days of on- and off-road evaluation time with the 2010 Jeep Patriot and its competitors. Consideration is given to everything from exterior styling and off-road capability to the entrant's overall utility, value and fuel efficiency.

"The TAWA Truck Rodeo is the most comprehensive evaluation of new trucks and SUVs in the country and manufacturers consider it a great honor to win their category," said Harold Gunn, President of TAWA.

With its combination of fun, freedom, utility and best-in-class Jeep 4x4 capability, the 2010 Jeep Patriot sets apart from the competition.

Innovative technology affords Jeep Patriot more capability than any other vehicle in its class. Jeep Patriot is available in three drive configurations: front-wheel drive, Freedom Drive I (a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode) and Freedom Drive II^TM Off-Road Package (a full-time, active 4x4 system with best-in-class 19:1 Low Ratio that provides true Jeep 4x4 Trail Rated capability).

The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot equipped with Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package sits one inch higher than non-Trail Rated versions and meets Jeep off-road capability requirements for traction, water fording, articulation, maneuverability and ground clearance. The Off-Road Package's 17-inch wheels contribute to the Trail Rated Patriot's 9 inches of ground clearance, 29.6-degree approach angle, 34.2-degree departure angle and 23.3-degree breakover angle. In addition, Trail Rated models have additional body sealing and high-mounted drivetrain vents in order to support 19-inch water-fording capability.

The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package utilizes a second-generation Continuously Variable Transaxle with a low ratio (CVT2L) to maximize off-road capability. In addition, 17-inch all-terrain tires, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks and fog lamps separate Trail Rated Jeep Patriots from all other compact SUVs.

Jeep Patriot is designed for customers who want four-wheel-drive capability or the year-round versatility, excellent fuel economy and an attractive price point. With modern interior and classic Jeep exterior styling, including traditional round Jeep headlamps, seven-slot grille, muscular body-side flares, and strong stance - the 2010 Jeep Patriot broadens the classic Jeep design appeal to new customers.