New Car-Based SUV Concept Remains "Trail Rated"
Of the two concept vehicles that Jeep has presented at this year's Frankfurt motor show, the Patriot sticks closest to the Jeep textbook. Unlike the Compass, its mechanical twin which aims to diversify Jeep's "Trail Rated" portfolio away from off-road ruggedness to more refined styling and car-like driving dynamics, the Patriot hits right at the heart of the compact 4x4 market. With an aim to spread the Jeep brand to all
markets, the Patriot's purpose is to take the traditional image of Jeep and delve into uncharted territories of the compact SUV segment with a car-based product derived from the new Euro-centric Dodge Caliber hatchback chassis and drivetrain architectures.
In terms of the Patriot concept's appearance, Jeep has chosen to revisit its history books. Like the full-size Commander SUV, this little 'ute harks back to the '80s and '90s style Cherokee, whose boxy midsize shell became an icon next to the great full-size Wagoneer and legendary Wrangler. Here, the simplistic styling carries new attributes, such as ruggedness, authenticity, freedom and adventure, without pretentious gimmicks.
Senior VP of design Trevor Creed had this to say about the Patriot's styling: "Simple, geometric forms and planar surfaces define Jeep Patriot's timeless, purpose-built design." Ah, fancy talk for slab-sided goodness, a
styling theme that has proven to keep buyers coming back for more. But really, it's a perfect canvas for the market that Jeep is trying to lure in - young buyers who want Jeep capabilities, but without the large, heavy frame and associated costly fuel bills.
Place the Patriot against the Compass and it stands out with plenty of gear familiar to the off-roading crowd. Bare plastic is used on the flared fenders and door handles, promoting durability, while brushed metal skid plates protect delicate internal and undercarriage components. Like the Liberty Renegade, the Patriot features stand-up fog lamps affront its vertical grille, while a sturdy roof rack gives muddy or oversized cargo a mode of mess-free transportation.
Of the two concept vehicles that Jeep has presented at this year's Frankfurt motor show, the Patriot sticks closest to the Jeep textbook. Unlike the Compass, its mechanical twin which aims to diversify Jeep's "Trail Rated" portfolio away from off-road ruggedness to more refined styling and car-like driving dynamics, the Patriot hits right at the heart of the compact 4x4 market. With an aim to spread the Jeep brand to all
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| The Patriot hits right at the heart of the compact 4x4 market. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
In terms of the Patriot concept's appearance, Jeep has chosen to revisit its history books. Like the full-size Commander SUV, this little 'ute harks back to the '80s and '90s style Cherokee, whose boxy midsize shell became an icon next to the great full-size Wagoneer and legendary Wrangler. Here, the simplistic styling carries new attributes, such as ruggedness, authenticity, freedom and adventure, without pretentious gimmicks.
Senior VP of design Trevor Creed had this to say about the Patriot's styling: "Simple, geometric forms and planar surfaces define Jeep Patriot's timeless, purpose-built design." Ah, fancy talk for slab-sided goodness, a
 |
| It's a perfect canvas for the market that Jeep is trying to lure in - young buyers who want Jeep capabilities, but without the large, heavy frame and associated costly fuel bills. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
Place the Patriot against the Compass and it stands out with plenty of gear familiar to the off-roading crowd. Bare plastic is used on the flared fenders and door handles, promoting durability, while brushed metal skid plates protect delicate internal and undercarriage components. Like the Liberty Renegade, the Patriot features stand-up fog lamps affront its vertical grille, while a sturdy roof rack gives muddy or oversized cargo a mode of mess-free transportation.