Few people are surprised by inexpensive Kias or Chevrolet Aveos, but the idea of a sub-$15,000 Jeep may raise some eyebrows. The front-wheel-drive 2007 Patriot starts at $14,985, including a $560 destination charge, and thereby undercuts its stablemate, the non-Trail Rated Jeep Compass, which goes for $15,985 in base form. For its part, the Jeep Patriot Sport offers standard items such as 16-inch steel wheels, a CD player, a rear window wiper, and a tilt steering wheel. But more notable, especially given the price, are the standard four-wheel antilock disc brakes, the stability control system, and side-curtain airbags. Four-wheel-drive Sport models start at $16,735, though buyers will have to move up to the Limited for real off-road capability.