Cory X:
IMHO, therein lies the problem with modern Jeeps. The Jeep Cherokee had more low end torque and weighed 800 and 1200 lbs. less the the 2 generations of Libertys. The result, the Liberty is slower, less capable (lower), and less fuel efficient than the vehicle it replaced. Oh, and the interiors are cheaper than vehicles made 10+ years ago. The Patriot and the Compass have worst in class acceleration.
When Jeep decided it need to compete with the Honda Pilot, CR-V and Rav4 they managed to mangle the brand. I think the Grand Cherokees of the mid 90's were a perfect combination of size, utility, power and refinement. The current Jeeps try too hard to be alternatives to the CUV and stay "trail-rated" at the same time. Not an easy task and I think it has resulted in missing the mark on both accounts.
After 2 excellent Cherokees, I looked for every excuse to buy another Jeep. The Liberty is too slow and bad and fuel, The Patriot/Compass too small, unrefined and underpowered, and the Commander is a lame duck. Only the GC shines.
In general, Chryco can't seem to get more than one winner at a time. The 1st gen Liberties sold over 200K - now they sell 90kish with the hideous gen 2. Patriot and Compass were dying a violent death until they started giving them away with $3-4 k discounts. I haven’t seen a Commander on a lot in 3 years. Too bad. Jeep was the crown jewel of Chryco and it has been neglected for the better part of the last 5+ years.