2010 Jeep(R) Patriot 4x4 Named 'Compact SUV of Texas'

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Oct. 19 /PRNewswire/ --

-- Jeep Patriot 4x4 recognized by Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA)
for
best-in-class capability in the compact SUV segment
-- Best-in-class 19:1 Low Ratio provides true Jeep 4x4 Trail Rated®
off-road capability
-- Jeep Patriot's Off-Road Package includes aggressive approach,
departure
and breakover angles, 9 inches of ground clearance and additional body
sealing to support 19 inches of water-fording
-- 17-inch all-terrain tires, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow
hooks and fog lamps maximize Jeep Patriot's off-road capability

-- Jeep Patriot delivers up to 29 highway mpg

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
Chief Executive Officer - 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(TM) (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.

About the 2010 Jeep Patriot
Jeep® Patriot is a tremendous value, combining the packaging, safety features
and interior flexibility of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) with performance,
handling, and 29-mpg highway fuel economy. With its combination of fun,
freedom, utility and best-in-class Jeep 4x4 capability, the 2010 Jeep Patriot
sets apart from the competition. The 2010 Jeep Patriot Sport starts at $18,425
(including $630 destination).

About the Jeep brand
Staying true to its strong values and character, the Jeep brand is
purpose-built adventure gear inspiring extraordinary journeys. With nearly 70
years of legendary 4x4 capability, the Jeep brand continues to fulfill
promises of adventure, liberation and independence for those who truly embrace
life, whether traveling on or off-road. The ruggedness and responsiveness of
Jeep vehicles provide owners with a sense of security to handle any situation
with confidence.

The Jeep vehicle lineup includes the Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee,
Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand
around the world, all seven Jeep models are sold outside North America - and
all are available in right-hand drive versions and with gasoline and diesel
powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in
approximately 120 countries around the world.

SOURCE Chrysler Group LLC

Jiyan Cadiz, +1-248-512-4903 (office), +1-248-821-4885 (cell),
jkc34@chrysler.com, or Todd Goyer, +1-248-512-0041 (office), +1-248-761-0805
(cell), trg32@chrysler.com, both of Chrysler Group LLC