Addressing an area where it fell below many of its competitors, the 2009 Jeep Patriot gets an updated, more refined interior this year. The redecorating includes a padded door armrest, softer and higher-grade plastic materials, illuminated gauges and cupholders, and smoother seams overall. A new center console with a split lid offers more storage than last year's makeshift iPod holder. Chrome accents dress up the shifter, door trim, and vents.

Other additions include a removable and reversible cargo floor, washable on one side and carpeted on the other. An optional UConnect system bundles real-time traffic navigation with a 30-gigabyte hard drive that plays movies and a wireless cellphone link. On the performance side, extra insulation around the engine and better exhaust resonators supposedly will reduce the irritating engine noise produced by the struggling four-cylinder engines. A retuned suspension improves ride comfort.

The rugged, retro 2009 Patriot comes standard with front-wheel drive, with the option to add two different all-wheel-drive systems. The full-time Freedom-Drive I lacks low-range gearing and is intended for slippery conditions and bad weather, while the Freedom-Drive II Offroad Group Package comes trail-rated. Low-range gearing, locking differentials, skid plates, 1 inch more ground clearance, and all-terrain tires provide superior backroad capability. This Jeep can go anywhere, up uneven rocky climbs (thanks to a Continuously Variable Transaxle) or through streams (thanks to body sealing).

Powering both the Sport and Limited trims is a 16-valve, 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four engine, pushing 172 hp, paired with either a 5-speed manual or CVT transmission. As a compact SUV, its 23/28 fuel economy impresses owners and critics. An optional 158-hp 2.0-liter inline-four improves fuel economy slightly with its variable valve timing. The entry-level Sport comes with basic features, such as a CD/MP3 player, tilt steering, and an anti-theft system, but moving up the to Limited increases equipment considerably, adding power accessories, heated leather seats, and wheel-mounted audio controls. The spacious interior offers plenty of leg and headroom for front and backseat passengers, with a high ride height that provides good visibility for drivers.

Rear seats split-fold 60/40, and the front passenger seat also folds flat, for up to 54.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which makes up for the minimal interior storage compartments. Roof rails are also included. In the Limited, a handy rechargeable lamp in the cargo area doubles as a flashlight in case of emergency. Combining its rugged versatility, ample SUV-like cargo and passenger space, affordable pricetag, and high fuel economy ratings make the 2009 Patriot easy to transition from family car to weekend adventurer. Getting beyond the weak engine and its noisy struggles with acceleration may be its only major challenge.