Paris motor show: 2011 Jeep Patriot

Jeep has unveiled details and pictures of the new 2011 Jeep Patriot, which has seen changes to its styling and equipment levels.

Jeep says that the model’s ride and handling has also been refined by retuning the steering and suspension.

Exterior styling changes include a body colour grille, a revised front fascia with the fog lights positioned inside the headlamps, a new rear fascia that extends lower than on previous models and 17in wheels that are now available as an option.

The interior now boasts soft-touch front-door trim panels, a new centre armrest and a new cloth interior with premium cloth bucket seats in the front.

Other changes include the introduction of steering wheel-mounted controls for the radio, cruise control and hands-free phone, and new backlighting for the door switches, locks, windows and power mirror controls.

There are three trim levels – Sport, Latitude and Latitude X – and all are offered with either front-wheel or four-wheel drive. Speed control is standard on all models and automatic temperature control is standard on the Latitude X.

Accessibility equipment includes a low-range mode, 19in water fording capability, Hill Descent Control and brake traction control.

The new Jeep Patriot will come to the UK early next year.

Andrew Papworth