5 sensible cars for volatile times

The Patriot compact SUV was an all-new model in 2007. OnCars tested it in Arizona, including a long bash over rugged trails, plus two hot laps over a course with fast sand washes, using the standard electronic stability control to keep from plowing into cacti at 45 mph. There was no "head toss" or side-to-side pitch. Awesome off-road capability with electronically activated four-wheel drive.

The proven 2.4-liter four-cylinder Mitsubishi engine makes 172 horsepower. There's plenty of room inside, and when the seats - including the front - fold, you can put a sailboard or kayak in there. With the cruise control set at 68 mph, it gets 27 mpg.

Get the 5-speed manual transmission, because the optional CVT feels downright weird.