Is It 122 HP or 144 HP? Here’s the Real Answer
If you are researching the 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport, chances are you have already seen conflicting information about its engine output. Some sources list 122 horsepower, others show 144 horsepower, and many used vehicle listings mention one or the other without explanation. This confusion is extremely common and often leads buyers to question whether a listing is inaccurate or misleading.
This blog clears up the confusion properly and in detail. You will learn why both horsepower figures are correct, how the 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport was configured, how to identify which engine a specific vehicle has, and what the difference actually means for everyday driving, reliability, and ownership.
The Short, Accurate Answer
The 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport was offered with two different engines, depending on drivetrain and factory configuration:
- 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
Rated at 122 horsepower - 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine
Rated at 144 horsepower
There is no typo, no regional detuning, and no mid-year power change. The horsepower rating depends entirely on which engine is installed in the vehicle.
Why Jeep Offered Two Engines on the Patriot Sport
The Patriot Sport was positioned as an affordable entry-level Jeep. To keep the base price low, Jeep made the 2.0L engine standard, while offering the 2.4L engine as an upgrade, most often bundled with all-wheel drive.
This approach allowed buyers to choose between:
- Lower upfront cost and basic transportation
- More power and better all-weather capability
As a result, both engines are common on the used market today, which is why the confusion persists.
The 2.0L Engine
122 Horsepower Configuration
The 2.0-liter inline-four engine was the standard powertrain for the 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport, particularly on front-wheel-drive models.
Key Specifications
- 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder
- 122 horsepower
- 128 lb-ft of torque
- Usually paired with FWD
- Available with manual or automatic transmission
Real-World Driving Feel
This engine is designed for efficiency and simplicity rather than performance. Acceleration is modest, especially when merging onto highways or driving with passengers. Around town, it performs adequately and keeps operating costs low.
Best for drivers who:
- Primarily commute in the city
- Want basic, no-frills transportation
- Are focused on budget over power
The 2.4L Engine
144 Horsepower Configuration
The 2.4-liter engine was the optional upgrade for the Patriot Sport and is far more common on all-wheel-drive models.
Key Specifications
- 2.4L naturally aspirated four-cylinder
- 144 horsepower
- 165 lb-ft of torque
- Typically paired with AWD
- Commonly matched with a CVT or automatic
Real-World Driving Feel
The additional torque makes a noticeable difference. The 2.4L engine feels less strained during highway driving, handles hills better, and offers improved drivability when the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo.
This engine is better suited for:
- Highway commuting
- Snowy or mountainous regions
- Drivers who want AWD capability
- Owners planning long-term use
How to Tell Which Engine a 2016 Patriot Sport Has
If you are looking at a used Patriot Sport and want to confirm the engine, here are the most reliable methods.
Check the VIN
A dealership or VIN lookup tool can instantly confirm engine displacement.
Look at the Drivetrain
- Front-wheel drive models are usually 2.0L
- All-wheel drive models are almost always 2.4L
Under-the-Hood Label
The emissions label under the hood lists engine displacement and certification information.
Original Window Sticker or Build Sheet
If available, this is the most accurate confirmation method.
If you are shopping locally, a dealership like Simi Valley Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram can verify engine details using the VIN before purchase.
Performance Comparison: 122 HP vs 144 HP
| Category | 2.0L Engine | 2.4L Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 122 HP | 144 HP |
| Torque | 128 lb-ft | 165 lb-ft |
| Highway Passing | Weak | Noticeably better |
| City Driving | Adequate | Stronger |
| AWD Availability | Rare | Common |
| Fuel Economy | Slightly better | Slightly lower |
Neither engine delivers sporty performance, but the 2.4L is clearly more usable in real-world driving.
Reliability of Both Engines
From a reliability standpoint, both engines are similar. They share design philosophy and long-term durability traits.
Strengths
- Naturally aspirated design
- No turbochargers
- Simple engine layout
- Widely available parts
Common Age-Related Issues
- Throttle body problems
- CVT sensitivity to neglected maintenance
- Motor mount wear
- Suspension components aging
Proper oil changes, cooling system maintenance, and transmission servicing play a much larger role in longevity than engine choice.
Fuel Economy Differences
In real-world use:
- The 2.0L engine offers slightly better city fuel economy
- The 2.4L engine, especially with AWD, consumes marginally more fuel
The difference is not dramatic, but over long ownership, the 2.0L can be cheaper to run.
Which Engine Is the Better Buy Today?
For most used-car shoppers, the 2.4L engine is the better choice, even if it costs slightly more upfront.
Choose the 2.0L if:
- You want the lowest possible purchase price
- You drive mostly in urban conditions
- You value simplicity above all else
Choose the 2.4L if:
- You drive on highways frequently
- You want AWD capability
- You plan to keep the vehicle long term
- You want better overall drivability
Why Online Listings Often Get This Wrong
Many online listings use generic specs or auto-filled data. They often:
- Default to one horsepower figure
- Ignore drivetrain differences
- Copy information from other listings
This is why you will frequently see 122 HP and 144 HP listed interchangeably, even though they refer to different engines.
Final Verdict
The question “Is the 2016 Jeep Patriot Sport engine 122 or 144 horsepower?” has a clear and accurate answer.
Both figures are correct.
- 122 horsepower applies to the 2.0L engine
- 144 horsepower applies to the 2.4L engine
The difference comes down to configuration, not misinformation. Verifying the engine before buying is essential for setting realistic expectations about performance, fuel economy, and long-term satisfaction.
2016 Jeep Patriot Sport Engine FAQ
1. Why do some 2016 Jeep Patriot Sports say 122 HP and others say 144 HP?
Because Jeep offered two different engines on the Patriot Sport in 2016. The base 2.0L engine makes 122 horsepower, while the optional 2.4L engine makes 144 horsepower. Listings often fail to specify which engine the vehicle actually has.
2. Is the 144 horsepower Patriot faster than the 122 horsepower version?
Yes, noticeably. The 2.4L engine produces significantly more torque, which improves highway merging, hill climbing, and overall drivability. It is not a fast SUV, but it feels less strained than the 2.0L version.
3. Does AWD automatically mean the Patriot has the 144 HP engine?
Almost always. In 2016, AWD Patriot Sports were typically equipped with the 2.4L 144 HP engine. Front-wheel-drive models usually received the 2.0L 122 HP engine.
4. Can I upgrade a 122 HP Patriot to the 144 HP engine?
Practically speaking, no. An engine swap would cost far more than the vehicle’s value. If you want the 144 HP engine, it is far more sensible to buy a Patriot that came with it from the factory.
5. Is the 2.0L 122 HP engine unreliable?
No. The 2.0L engine is simple and generally reliable when properly maintained. It lacks power, but it is not known for widespread catastrophic failures. Most issues are related to age, maintenance, or transmission neglect rather than the engine itself.
6. Is the 2.4L 144 HP engine more reliable than the 2.0L?
Reliability is very similar. The 2.4L engine has more power and torque but shares the same basic design philosophy. Maintenance matters far more than which engine you choose.
7. Does the 122 HP engine get better fuel economy?
Slightly, yes. The 2.0L engine generally uses less fuel, especially in city driving. However, the difference is modest, and aggressive driving can erase any advantage.
8. Why do some listings get the horsepower wrong?
Many listings use auto-filled data or copied specs without checking the VIN. They often list one horsepower figure for all Patriots, which causes confusion. Always verify engine size directly rather than trusting the listing headline.
9. How can I confirm which engine a Patriot Sport has before buying?
The most reliable methods are:
- VIN lookup
- Drivetrain check (FWD vs AWD)
- Under-hood emissions label
- Dealer build sheet
Never rely on horsepower listed in the ad alone.
10. Is the 122 HP engine too weak for highway driving?
For many drivers, yes. It can handle highways, but acceleration is slow, especially when merging or passing. If you frequently drive on highways, the 144 HP engine is the better choice.
11. Does engine choice affect towing capacity?
Yes, but towing capacity is limited either way. The 2.4L engine handles light loads better, but the Patriot is not designed for heavy towing regardless of engine.
12. Which engine holds resale value better?
The 2.4L 144 HP engine, especially when paired with AWD, generally holds value better because it is more desirable to buyers and more versatile in different driving conditions.
13. Are maintenance costs different between the two engines?
Not significantly. Both engines require similar maintenance schedules. Transmission service, suspension wear, and cooling system upkeep are usually more costly factors than engine-related maintenance.
14. Should I avoid the CVT with either engine?
The CVT requires regular maintenance. When neglected, it can cause problems regardless of engine choice. A well-maintained CVT can last, but service history matters more than horsepower.
15. Which engine should most buyers choose today?
For most buyers, the 2.4L 144 HP engine is the better option. It offers better drivability, stronger torque, and improved resale value with minimal downside beyond slightly higher fuel use.
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