Five years ago, Jeep introduced its Patriot light SUV, a vehicle that appealed to some because its pseudo-rugged, all-American looks stood out in a carpark.
But could it be that it didn't appeal to a wide enough audience, especially in overseas markets? It was one thing having Jeeps swarming around battlefields helping win World War II, quite another when you actually had to sell them, rather than just have them wade ashore.
For the past couple of years, the Patriot has been receiving liberal applications of moisturiser and conditioner to smooth it for the suburbs. This year, it receives softer front and rear styling and a body-coloured grille on the outside, and much more inside.
The interior makeover is part of an ongoing effort to address criticism that, not really being a military vehicle, it contained too many hard plastics and rough edges.
It now looks quite good, thanks in part to soft-to-the-touch front-door trim and a nicer centre armrest. It also receives a new steering wheel with integrated controls - the same as the 2011 Wrangler. The leather seats, standard on the $43,990 Limited model Driven drove, are first-rate.
