THE JEEP PATRIOT has come in for an update ahead of the 2010 model year, getting an all-new interior and improved sound insulation in the cabin floor and engine bay.

Due for a complete overhaul in the next 18 months, the updated Patriot gets a monotone ‘Dark Slate Grey’ interior with an all-new dashboard design.

The new dashboard features a redesigned centre stack and instrument panel, joined by new door trim panels and centre console with a split lid for extra storage.

Thanks to a new matte finish, the Patriot’s dash offers a smoother look than the outgoing model, and Stain Repel technology is featured as standard.

Chrome accents have been added to the centre stack’s air vents, along with the shift bezel, door spears and cluster rings.

Improved sound insulation has been added to the Patriot’s engine bay and cabin floor, and a re-tuned exhaust designed for a more comfortable driving experience has also been added.

As with the updated Wrangler, the Patriot now offers the Uconnect Multimedia system with an upgraded 30gb hard drive. Combined with a nine-speaker Boston Acoustics MusicGate sound system, the Uconnect ‘Technology Group’ package is priced at $3500.

The Patriot is powered by Jeep’s 2.4 litre petrol engine, developing 125kW and 220Nm of torque and featuring dual Variable Valve Timing.

Two transmissions are available: a five-speed manual transmission as standard, and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Pricing starts at $29,990 for the five-speed manual-equipped Patriot Sport, through to $35,990 for the CVT-fitted six-speed automatic Patriot Limited.

Note: prices exclude dealer delivery and on-road costs.