Chrysler Jeep Patriot is the first American car to be covered by the Japan's eco-car subsidy program. Chrysler Jeep Patriot will be available in Japan from Feb.1. Powered by a 2.4-liter engine, Chrysler's new compact SUV has managed to clear the minimum mileage requirement for the Japanese government's subsidy system for eco-friendly cars. Improvements to the engine have improved its fuel efficiency from 10 kilometers to 10.6 kilometers per liter. The Japanese government introduced the subsidy program for eco-cars in June last year, in which up to 250,000 yen will be provided for the purchase of a vehicle with a minimum required gas mileage.

Chrysler's Jeep Patriot acquired model registration in Japan in 2007, and was certified as an eco-friendly car prior to the introduction of the revised criteria. Following the expansion of the coverage, more U.S. vehicles will be eligible for financial aid. Chrysler's Jeep Patriot will be available between 2.92 million ($32,371) and 3.42 million yen ($37,914).