2008 Jeep Patriot Styling

STYLING | 8 out of 10

The 2008 Jeep Patriot is the Chrysler brand's new small crossover vehicle, mechanically similar to both the more softly styled Jeep Compass and the more carlike Dodge Caliber.

While the Compass has rounded corners and a more carlike presence, the Jeep Patriot has a boxier, more utilitarian look. Motor Trend describes it as "more palatable Jeep styling" that is more rugged-looking and truer to the no-nonsense, trail-blazing look of the older Jeep models. Kelley Blue Book refers to the 2008 Jeep Patriot's styling with its square lines and boxy stance as one that "evokes the purpose-built style of the now-defunct Cherokee and, to a lesser degree, its Grand Cherokee successor." Comparing the Patriot to some of its competitors in the segment, Automobile states that the Jeep Patriot "looks far more like a tough-guy off-roader than its curvaceous urbanite rivals."

The Patriot's interior is basic, but attractive and sturdy-looking. The Patriot's interior on the base Sport model is equipped with vinyl seating for five that shows some big expanses of plastic on the dash but with large, easy-to-read instrumentation. Automobile says that "the Patriot's upright dash and flat expanse of hood make you feel as though you're in something substantial--more truck than minivan--and the simple controls are logically laid out." In 2008, Jeep equips the Patriot with chrome accents on the stereo as well as the door locks and handles, which adds some style to the purposeful interior. The shiny additions didn't especially impress Edmunds, who complain that the "cabin features large gauges and simple controls but is ultimately defined by a sea of hard, low-quality plastic."

Conclusion