Definitely a great SUV; I have an 04' and love it... mileage on the V8 is no surprise, but the Grands are IMO the most well rounded out there. Utilitarian while still providing excellent comfort. I wouldn't trade mine for anything.
The SRT-8, while still a cherokee, is geared more for street.. not really set up for towing with it's centered exhaust tips. Very nice ride though. I wouldn't go with a Patriot; This is more of a universal platform, that shares badges with the Dodge Nitro, and another (can't remember the name)... It's more of grocery getter than anything, and again, IMO, leans towards being a car.