An Offer to ‘Choose Your Adventure’ and an Online Interactive Film Drive the Marketing Campaign for the All-New 2007 Jeep(R) Patriot

* Unique film helps viewers experience the features and capabilities of the Jeep Patriot * TV spots, print ads and online ads are among other elements launching March 15 * ‘March Madness’ media will play a big role in the campaign

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — For the second time in as many months, the Jeep(R) brand has created a cutting-edge Internet experience designed to provide consumers an online immersion into the features and capabilities of the all-new 2007 Jeep Patriot compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV).

“Wolf” TV Spot (May have to copy and paste web address into your browser): http://wm.world.mii-/ streaming.net/media/convergent/dcstudios/VIDEO/2007/mar/patriot_wolf.wmv

In February the Jeep brand and Marvel Comics unveiled “The Patriot Factor,” an online adventure comic book whose story line is being provided by consumers at www.patriotadventure.com.

Today, as part of the nationwide marketing launch for the Jeep Patriot, the brand introduced “The Way Beyond Trail,” an online interactive film. Consumers can join three characters who drive a Jeep Patriot while searching for a buried treasure. Consumers directly impact the evolution of the plot through their viewing choices, making “The Way Beyond Trail” a unique and truly interactive experience.

Product features of the Jeep Patriot are integral to the story line. In one scene, for example, the lead female character invites a group of people to a tailgate party by cranking up the music on the Patriot’s two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate.

“‘The Way Beyond Trail’ and ‘The Patriot Factor’ combine the timeless magic of story-telling with the power and reach of the Internet,” Jay Kuhnie, Director - Jeep Communications, said. “Both applications allow us to engage prospective customers of the Jeep Patriot in an environment that is interactive and entertaining, which resonates well with them.”

“The Way Beyond Trail,” which goes live on March 15 at www.patriotadventure.com, is a unique element of the marketing campaign for the 2007 Jeep Patriot. The campaign also includes two new 30-second TV spots, print ads, online advertising, a Hispanic campaign, product integration, events, direct mail, billboards and other out-of-home elements.

Overall, the theme of the Jeep Patriot marketing campaign, “choose your adventure,” is reinforced within the major elements of the campaign. For example, “The Way Beyond Trail” has 44 scenes (ranging from 15-30 seconds in length) and participants choose their path through the adventure.

Even the print ads allow readers to choose how they will interact with them.

Ultimately, the campaign theme takes its cue from the 2007 Jeep Patriot. That’s because the all-new vehicle delivers the fun, freedom, utility and best-in-class Jeep 4×4 capability that allows anyone to “choose your adventure.”

“The Jeep Patriot is targeted at young, active men and women who always wanted a Jeep but couldn’t afford one,” John Plecha, Director - Jeep Marketing and Global Communications, said. “Now, these consumers can choose their adventure in a Jeep Patriot because it delivers the Jeep experience at an affordable starting price - $14,985.”

Among the key elements of the campaign are:

Media

From now until April 1, Jeep Patriot advertising will be prominent wherever there’s news about March Madness, the NCAA Men’s College Basketball Championship. For example, sports-themed banners about the Jeep Patriot will appear on virtually every Web site devoted to sports, including ESPN.com, SportingNews.com, SportsIllustrated.com, as well as the home pages of AOL and Yahoo!, among others. The two TV spots will get frequent airing on TV sports programming such as CBS Sports, College Sports TV, Fox Sports and College Hoops Network. Print ads already have appeared in USA Today and will continue during March Madness.

The Way Beyond Trail

The main characters are Gary, Srini and Jodi. (The same trio appears in the TV commercials for the 2007 Jeep Patriot.) Each online participant becomes the fourth member of the group of friends on a backwoods camping trip. The story starts around a campfire when Gary reveals an old family treasure map handed down from his uncle. The three friends, plus the viewer, decide they’ll be the ones to find it.

It is possible to complete the adventure without viewing all 44 scenes. Part of the challenge and fun is that some scenes are dead ends. However, players can simply go back and make a different choice to keep the story going. There is only one correct path that leads participants to the ending scene of the interactive film.

Participants can customize their experience by uploading photos and personal information that will reappear as embedded content within the film.

There is also a viral component. Participants have the option to provide an Emergency Contact person (name and e-mail address) in the event they get “lost.” On the first instance of encountering a dead end, an e-mail is automatically sent to their Emergency Contact, inviting them to try their own luck on “The Way Beyond Trail.”

TV Spot Descriptions

“Wolf” — At a riverside campsite, Gary and Srini pull a prank on Jodi by taking her canoe from the roof of her 2007 Jeep Patriot. As they head to the river to make their escape, Jodi can’t awaken her male partner. So she fires up the Jeep Patriot and pursues the pranksters on a path that goes parallel to the river. After driving through rugged terrain which the Jeep Patriot handles effortlessly, Jodi stops ahead of the fleeing canoe. On the opposite bank of the river she spots a wolf on a rock. She takes her forefinger and thumb and puts them in front of her face. She picks up the wolf with her fingers and drops it into the canoe. Terrified, Gary and Srini jump into the river and escape.

“Wake Up” — The interior features of the Jeep Patriot are highlighted as two campers load their gear into the rear of the vehicle. A third camper, however, is asleep in his tent. Nothing rouses him: not his friends raising the volume of the Patriot’s MP3 player, or pointing the flip-down speakers directly at the tent and blasting music. Finally, one of the campers takes his forefinger and thumb and puts them in front of his eye and picks up the guy’s tent. He lifts it over the water and dumps his friend into the lake.

“Wolf” will first air on March 15 during the NCAA Men’s College Basketball Tournament. “Wake Up” debuts March 20. Both will run on sports, music, entertainment and news programming, on late-night shows, and on networks such as Fox, ABC, NBC, E!, MTV and FX.

“Animales” is the title of the TV campaign targeted at Hispanics. There are two Spanish-language 30-second TV spots scheduled to start airing in April on Univision, Telefutura, Galavision, ESPN Deportes, GolTV, LatiNation and Mun2.

“Mosquito” — A chameleon is interrupted by his friend the mosquito moments before he prepares for lunch. The mosquito explains how he noticed a new animal — the Jeep Patriot — in the forest. Intrigued, the chameleon follows and tries to make it his next meal. As the Jeep Patriot drives through the forest, showcasing the capability of its Freedom Drive II(TM) Off-road Package, the mosquito follows its every move. Just as mosquito begins his final approach the Patriot kicks up mud in his face and the mosquito flies blindly into a tree head first.

“Weasel” — An amorous weasel wanders through the forest and stumbles upon a new animal — the Jeep Patriot — which seems to be singing a beautiful song. The Weasel eagerly approaches the Patriot, admiring its classic angles and modern features, such as the rear-liftgate speakers which projects the beautiful song throughout the forest. The Weasel is overcome with emotion and falls in love with the Jeep Patriot.

“Family Tree” is a print ad in English and Spanish that will appear in such Hispanic publications as Billboard Latino, Futbol Mundial, Latino U, Urban Latino, Fox Sports en Espanol, ESPN Deportes, among others.

Print Ads

There are two versions of an ad called “Connect the Dots.” Each has a photo of the Jeep Patriot in a field of dots that are assigned to numbers. One set of numbers and dots is red, the other is blue. Readers can choose to connect the red or blue dots. Each yields a different image.

The other print execution is a full-page spread with a sticker insert. There are two versions of this ad. One spread shows a forest scene. It is divided by an insert that has stickers on both sides. The stickers are removable pictures of the Jeep Patriot, plus people, clothing and gear that would be found in a forest. Readers can remove the stickers and arrange them any way they want on the forest page. The possibilities for this version of “choose your adventure” are limitless. The second version of this ad uses a beach scene, with related stickers that also can be placed wherever the reader likes.

A sampling of the print placements includes sports publications (Sports Illustrated; ESPN, the annual March Madness Preview Section of USA Today), music (Rolling Stone, and Spin,), men’s lifestyle (Maxim, Details, GQ, Men’s Health,) outdoor/adventure (Surfer, Four Wheeler, Runner’s World) and women’s lifestyle (Jane, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan).

Jeep(R) Patriot Powertrain and Chassis Offer Best-in-class Off-road Capability, World-class Performance and Class-leading Fuel Economy

* Freedom Drive I 4×4 System Provides Confidence in All Weather Driving Conditions

* Freedom Drive II Off-road Package With CVT2L Delivers Best-in-class Off-road Capability

* Second-Generation Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT2) Gives Customers Improved Performance and Fuel Economy

* 2.4-Liter World Engine Achieves Class-Leading Fuel Efficiency of 30 Miles Per Gallon on the Highway

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ — The all-new 2007 Jeep(R) Patriot sets a new standard for off-road capability in the compact sport- utility (SUV) segment: a fun-to-drive vehicle that delivers best-in-class Jeep 4×4 capability and class-leading fuel efficiency. The Jeep Patriot, equipped with its standard 2.4-liter World Engine, achieves 30 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway — fuel-economy numbers not often found on an SUV.

“Jeep Patriot does for the compact SUV class what the brand icon Jeep Wrangler does for the extreme off-road SUV class — it provides the best off- road capability in its class,” said Larry Lyons, Vice President — Front- wheel-drive Product Team. “Patriot gives first-time Jeep buyers a fuel- efficient, fun-to-drive SUV with true off-road capability.”

WORLD-CLASS POWERTRAIN ENGINEERING

The 2007 Jeep Patriot’s powertrain delivers world-class performance, fuel economy and refinement. Patriot features a standard 2.4-liter World Engine with dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT), which helps optimize the torque curve at all speeds. This World Engine produces more power, better fuel economy and a smoother, quieter ride than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology typically not available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Patriot’s price class. Performance objectives are targeted to match the best in the segment. The 2.4-liter engine provides 172 horsepower (128 kW) and 165 lb.-ft. (222 N*m) of torque and delivers class-leading fuel-economy of 26 mpg in the city and 30 on the highway. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder World Engine also is available on front-wheel-drive Jeep Patriot Sport models and achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Jeep Patriot features a standard five-speed manual transaxle and an available Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT2). CVT2 is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for pleasing engine response and precise ratio control. CVT2 contributes to a fuel economy improvement of 6-8 percent compared with a traditional four-speed automatic transaxle. Patriot also is the first Jeep vehicle to offer a CVT2 with integral low-ratio (CVT2L). The CVT2L’s effective first gear in low ratio is 19:1, which provides the torque necessary for crawling over moderate rocks and logs and other off- road events.

NEW TECHNOLOGY CREATES JEEP 4X4 CAPABILITY

An electronically controlled coupling (ECC), which is attached to the Patriot’s rear differential, is the heart of Jeep Patriot’s Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-road Package four-wheel-drive systems. Patriot’s ECC system is easier to calibrate, more flexible, more precise and lighter than viscous-coupling or gerotor systems.

The ECC transmits torque to the Patriot’s rear wheels through a two-stage clutch system. An electromagnet powered by current from the electronic control module operates a low-torque clutch. A cam-and-ball mechanism amplifies the force of the low-torque clutch, applying the main clutch that transmits torque to the rear wheels. The control module calculates vehicle speed, turning radius and wheel slip and transfers torque based on these conditions. The unit seamlessly interacts with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) and Brake Traction Control systems to ensure torque is transferred as needed, providing better handling and traction characteristics.

Unlike other on-demand four-wheel-drive systems that rely on pumps or viscous fluids to transfer torque, the Jeep Patriot’s four-wheel-drive system requires no front-to-rear slippage for activation. Patriot’s state-of-the-art electronic four-wheel-drive system anticipates the need for added traction and responds to wheel slippage by automatically transferring power to the rear wheels. The system contributes to Patriot’s excellent fuel economy by operating only when needed, minimizing power-robbing friction and inertia.

MOST CAPABLE VEHICLE IN ITS CLASS

Jeep Patriot is available in three drivetrain configurations: the standard front-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent ride and handling combined with best-in-class fuel efficiency, the Freedom Drive I 4×4 system and the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package.

Freedom Drive I is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with Lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance for the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel- drive system is recommended for daily use, including slick conditions that come with rain and light snow. Freedom Drive I features a lockable center coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Patriot in four-wheel- drive Lock mode to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

To activate the Jeep Patriot’s Freedom Drive I Lock mode, the driver pulls up on the chrome T-handle. This lock mode ensures that the ECC sends the maximum amount of torque to the rear axle (up to 60 percent) for improved traction.

The Freedom Drive II Off-road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that makes the Jeep Patriot a Trail Rated 4×4, creating the most capable vehicle in the crowded compact SUV class. The Freedom Drive II Off- road Package includes CVT2L, 17-inch all-terrain OWL tires and aluminum wheels, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and manual seat height adjuster.

The Jeep Patriot’s Freedom Drive II Off-road Package is available on both Sport and Limited models. This all-new Jeep technology includes the CVT2L’s best-in-class 19:1 low ratio, which is ideal for crawling over obstacles. Off- road Brake Traction Control maintains forward movement during heavy articulation or on split-friction surfaces where one wheel loses traction. Hill-descent Control modulates brake hydraulic pressure without driver intervention, providing downhill assistance at a safe and controlled rate of speed. Brake lock differentials improve the Patriot’s mobility by applying brake force to the driven wheel that is spinning faster than the mate on the same axle. This provides an equal amount of torque for each wheel, thereby providing torque to the wheel with the most traction. This helps when crawling over obstacles, during heavy articulation activity, or when the driver encounters split-friction surfaces or off-road driving conditions.

Trail Rated Jeep Patriot models also include a heavy-duty cooling module, a full-size spare tire, skid plates (that protect critical components like the engine, transaxle or fuel tank during off-road driving), and tow hooks designed to get even the best off-roaders out of a tight spot. Standard three- mode ESP and off-road ABS also add to the Patriot’s inherent off-road capability.

Drivers can select four-wheel Lock mode on Jeep Patriots with the Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package by pulling up once on the T- shaped off-road handle in the center console. Once the off-road handle is pulled, an amber “off-road” message in the cluster lights up to confirm the system is on.

The Patriot responds rapidly to aggressive throttle input and delivers better traction performance for off-road maneuvers than in the normal mode. At speeds less than 10 mph, the maximum amount of torque is sent to the rear axle, which effectively locks the front and rear axles together at a 50/50 torque split for optimum traction performance. At speeds less than 25 mph, the calibration for the ECC is more aggressive. At speeds above 25 mph, the coupling delivers the same amount of torque to the rear axle as in the normal mode.

When in Off-road Mode with the 4WD Lock engaged and the shifter in the “L” or low ratio position, the following conditions are engaged automatically for optimal capability and performance on Jeep Patriot Trail Rated models equipped with the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package:

* CVT2L provides an overall first gear ratio of 19:1 for crawling over
large obstacles until the vehicle approaches a speed of 10 mph or more,
when it ratios up to maintain speed

* Engine/throttle calibration is optimized for off-road driving

* Off-road ABS calibration is activated (as on non-Trail Rated vehicles)

* Traction Control reverts to brake lock differentials to help maintain
forward mobility during heavy articulation or on split-friction surfaces
when one wheel loses traction

* Hill-descent Control, a first for Jeep, modulates the brake hydraulic
pressure without driver intervention to provide downhill assistance at a
safe and controlled rate of speed. This feature uses grade-sensing logic
to determine if the vehicle is descending a hill or traveling on level
ground

* A green icon showing a vehicle descending a hill appears in the cluster
when the Off-road Mode is activated and CVT2L is in Low or Reverse

ACHIEVING TRAIL RATED STATUS

Jeep Patriot Trail Rated models are designed and tested to perform in a variety of off-road conditions defined by five key consumer-oriented performance categories. These include traction, ground clearance, articulation, maneuverability and water fording, as well as measurements that demonstrate the engine and transmission continue to self-lubricate, while the vehicle is traveling up a side slope or on a fore/aft grade, for consistent performance and capability. The testing for these performance criteria is performed through a combination of physical testing and virtual modeling.

The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot sits 1 inch higher than non-Trail Rated versions and meets Jeep off-road capability requirements for traction, water fording, articulation, maneuverability and ground clearance. Jeep Patriot features standard 16-inch styled steel wheels and all-season tires. Available 17-inch wheels and OWL tires contribute to the Trail Rated Patriot’s 9 inches of ground clearance, 29.6-degree approach angle, 34.2-degree departure angle and 23.3-degree breakover angle. Trail Rated Jeep Patriot models also have additional body sealing and high-mounted drivetrain vents to support 19-inch water fording capability. The Jeep Patriot’s body and chassis were developed and tested over numerous rugged off-road terrains to meet the requirements of the enthusiast Jeep customer. The Trail Rated badge communicates to the customer that Jeep Patriot 4×4 with the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package delivers authentic 4×4 capability.

* Classic Jeep(R) styling at an entry-level price

* Designed to appeal to enthusiasts looking for fuel-efficiency and off- road capability

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — No doubt about it. Strong and capable, the all-new 2007 Jeep Patriot is unmistakably Jeep, designed to appeal to compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) buyers who want classic Jeep styling with best-in-class off-road capability. Jeep Patriot is rugged, exuding the brand’s key attributes of mastery, authenticity, freedom and adventure, while offering excellent fuel economy, interior flexibility and utility at a great value.

“Simple yet distinctive geometric forms and planar surfaces define Jeep Patriot’s timeless proportions,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design. “Combined, these features give Jeep Patriot its robust, strong, capable off-road image.”

CLASSIC DESIGN CUES ONLY ON A JEEP

Jeep Patriot’s two-box design is built for maximum cargo volume, rugged driving conditions and excellent utility.

“Patriot’s style is classic Jeep; its design focuses on functionality, simplicity and capability,” Creed added. “Patriot is designed to appeal to customers who want a vehicle that is practical in terms of form and function, as well as different from the crowd of compact SUVs currently on the road.”

Patriot’s face is classic Jeep, featuring the brand’s signature seven-slot grille, a clamshell hood, a robust bumper and round headlamps. The body color fascia is neatly integrated with the grille for a high-quality appearance. Limited models add a bright fascia overlay.

Fascia-mounted round fog lamps, (available on Patriot Sport models and standard on Patriot Limited models), improve visibility in bad weather. A separate park and turn signal lamp wraps around the corner of the Patriot’s body. With their simple round and rectangular geometric shapes, these features are timeless and functional.

A stiff windshield and upright backlight combine to create Patriot’s easily identifiable side view. A black roof molding channels water over the Patriot’s roof and provides a smooth fit and finish. Patriot also features a standard roof rack for carrying extra gear. The rack is black on Patriot Sport models and bright on Limited models. Jeep Patriot Limited models feature a body-color bodyside molding. Additional Jeep design cues that complement the classic boxy side view include trapezoidal wheel openings and available all- terrain tires. Jeep Patriot’s high beltline completes the vehicle’s protective side profile.

From the rear, the Jeep Patriot features an upright backlight and a bold bumper. Integrated into the liftgate header is a six Light-emitting Diode (LED) center high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) and washer nozzle. Patriot’s modular tail lamps are tall and set at far corners of the vehicle in classic Jeep style for improved visibility. The Patriot name is inscribed in the rear fascia and complemented with a Jeep badge, which is located on the light bar in the center of the vehicle. A black step pad with a non-skid surface enhances the functionality customers expect from a Jeep. Four doors and a rear liftgate provide easy access to this compact SUV’s spacious and functional interior.

Jeep Patriot models equipped with the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package also include tow hooks and skid plates, necessary for true off-roading. Two tow hooks are securely mounted in the front, and one tow hook is securely mounted to the left side of the rear fascia.

Jeep Patriot rides on a 103.7-inch wheelbase with a 59.8-inch wide track. The wheel placement enhances vehicle stability, vehicle dynamics and ride quality. Large wheel openings accommodate 16-inch steel wheels with all-season touring tires or available 17-inch aluminum wheels and OWL all-terrain tires housed inside signature Jeep trapezoidal wheel openings. Patriot’s large wheels, 27- to 28-inch outer diameter tires and suspension design contribute to 9 inches of ground clearance on Trail Rated models equipped with the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package. The low-profile design of the rear suspension also maximizes rear seat and cargo room.

All 2007 Jeep Patriot models will be available in Jeep Green Metallic Clear Coat, Light Khaki Metallic Clear Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Marine Blue Pearl Coat, Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Black Clear Coat and Stone White Clear Coat.

FLEXIBLE, FUNCTIONAL INTERIOR WITH CLEVER INNOVATIONS

Form follows function in Jeep Patriot’s spacious interior, which combines functional style, comfort and versatility in an appealing and roomy package. Jeep Patriot’s flexible interior gives owners the capability to do more in terms of seating friends and storing gear. In addition, a command-of-the-road seating position (two inches higher than Dodge Caliber) gives Jeep Patriot drivers an added feeling of control.

All Patriot models feature two two-toned interior color selections, clever features in the instrument panel and center console and the versatility of fold-flat rear seats. Flexible seating options in the Jeep Patriot include a front passenger seat that folds forward to create a table-like surface for versatility, and makes way for storing gear - everything from an 8-foot ladder to skis or snowboards. Standard 60/40 fold-flat rear seats with an available recline feature provide added flexibility and comfort. Folding the seatbacks forward creates a nearly flat load surface, maximizing storage in the Jeep Patriot.

Jeep Patriot has 39.4 inches of rear seat leg room, 54.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded flat and 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the front passenger seat back and rear seats folded flat.

In addition to interior spaciousness and flexibility, Jeep Patriot has many available clever and unique interior features that add functionality not typically found in a compact SUV, including:

* Standard side-curtain air bags
* An available 458-watt Nine-speaker Boston Acoustics Premium Sound Group
with subwoofer that includes two articulating speakers packaged in the
liftgate. When the liftgate is open, the speakers can swing down to
face rearward for tailgating and other activities
* An available dual purpose, self-recharging removable interior lamp,
which is mounted in the headliner above the cargo area and can snap out
of the bezel to serve as a flashlight
* A sliding center armrest that moves forward 3 inches to accommodate
shorter drivers. The armrest lid includes a unique flip pocket for
storing a cell phone or an MP3 player
* An available 115-volt outlet in the center console that can power small
electronics
* UltraFloor(TM) durable vinyl load floor that is both removable and
washable
* YES Essentials(R) seat fabric - an easy-care, soil-repellent and anti-
microbial textile that protects seats from stains, odors and
discoloration
* An available navigation system that helps Patriot drivers find their
way both on- and off-road

Jeep Patriot’s instrument cluster area is large for a compact SUV and features four gauges. The Jeep Patriot Limited model features a painted silver bezel. Cluster gauges are black with white graphics and orange pointers and are illuminated by Light-emitting Diode (LED) lights.

The instrument panel provides convenient storage compartments for added utility. The glove box door swings down to provide a large, single bin for storing the owner’s manual and other documents out of sight, while an open bin above the glove box provides additional easy-to-reach storage space.

The center stack, which features a Silver Alloy painted bezel to complement the instrument panel, includes air registers that can be closed so there is no perceivable airflow, as well as the radio, climate controls, the switch bank for optional heated seats and the transmission shifter. These components are all within easy reach of the driver and passenger. A cubby for storing small items is located beneath the radio.

Additional storage is located in the doors. Map pockets molded into the front doors can hold as many as six CD jewel cases. The 6×9-inch speakers mounted in the front and rear doors are the largest standard speakers in the Patriot’s class.

Jeep Patriot also features a gated shifter, a feature typically found on premium vehicles. The shifter bezel includes an illuminated PRNDL indicator to make it easy to see when driving at night.

Jeep Patriot Sport has standard Vinyl Tech(TM) cloth seats that feature a patterned insert with a solid bolster and back panel for a sporty look. YES Essentials stain-resistant seat fabric is available on the Jeep Patriot Sport model. Leather-trimmed bucket seats are standard on Jeep Patriot Limited. The manual adjustable front bucket seats include adjustable halo head restraints for optimum comfort and visibility.

All models feature a two-tone interior color theme of dark and light shades of Pastel Slate Gray or Pastel Pebble Beige. Franklin grain is patterned on the instrument panel and lower trim. The upper trim is grained in Aura to match the texture of the premium Aura headliner fabric.

2007 Jeep(R) Patriot Protects With Long List of Safety and Security Features That Provide Confidence in All Driving Situations

* More than 30 advanced safety and security technologies available on the all-new 2007 Jeep(R) Patriot

* Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Electronic Roll Mitigation standard on all Jeep Patriot models

* Off-road Brake Traction Control, Hill-descent Control and off-road ABS combine to deliver Patriot’s off-road capability

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The all-new 2007 Jeep(R) Patriot is designed to keep occupants safe both on- and off-road. Technologies available on the Jeep Patriot include standard side-curtain air bags, optional front seat-mounted supplemental side air bags, standard driver and passenger front air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Traction Control, Brake Assist, Electronic Roll Mitigation, an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with rough-road detection and an available Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

In addition, Jeep Patriot with the Freedom Drive II Off-road Package includes off-road Brake Traction Control, Hill-descent Control and off-road ABS, all of which add to Jeep Patriot’s off-road safety and capability.

“Our engineers have included the latest off-road technology to ensure Jeep Patriot is as solid off-road as it is on-road,” said Matt Liddane, Chief Engineer - Jeep Patriot. “Our Jeep Patriot customers can have the confidence of driving a safe and secure vehicle in whatever driving conditions they may encounter.”

For added security, Sentry Key(R) engine immobilizer, a removable/rechargeable interior flashlight, an available security alarm and HomeLink(R) Universal Home Security System Transceiver also are available on the 2007 Jeep Patriot.

The following combination of safety and security features reinforces the 2007 Jeep Patriot’s commitment to safety and security:

* Advanced Multi-stage Air Bags: Inflate with a force appropriate to the
severity of the impact. Meet advanced air bag requirements for smaller
and out-of-position occupants (standard)
* All-speed Traction Control: Senses drive-wheel slip and applies
individual brakes to a slipping wheel(s), and can reduce excess engine
power until traction is regained (standard)
* Anti-lock Brake System with Brake Traction Control: Senses and prevents
wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking
and/or slippery conditions (standard)
* Auto-reverse Sun Roof: Automatically engages and reverses the power sun
roof to the open position (available)
* BeltAlert: Periodically activates a chime and illuminates an icon in the
instrument cluster to remind the driver to buckle up if not properly
belted (standard)
* Brake Assist: Applies maximum braking power, providing the shortest
possible stopping distance when the vehicle senses a panic brake
condition (standard)
* Brake/Park Interlock: Prevents automatic transaxle from being shifted
out of Park, unless the brake pedal is applied (standard with automatic
transaxle)
* Child-protection Rear Door Locks: Disables the rear doors’ inside-
release handles via a small lever on the door-shut face (standard)
* Child Seat Anchor System [Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children
(LATCH)]: Eases installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
(standard)
* Constant Force Retractors (CFR): Distribute the force of the front seat
belts according to the load or force exerted on them. Force-limits the
belt system and gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled
manner (standard)
* Cross Car Impact Beam: Manages energy in a side-impact collision
(standard)
* Crumple Zones: Compress during an accident to absorb energy and prevent
transfer of that energy to vehicle occupants (standard)
* Dual-phase Steel Rails and Tunnel Reinforcements: Manage energy in a
collision and allows for weight optimization through the use of high-
strength steels (standard)
* Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM): An extension of ESP, uses the input
from the ESP sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering
a potential roll situation then reacts immediately, applying the brakes
individually and modulating throttle position as needed to mitigate the
roll situation (standard)
* Electronic Stability Program: Enhances driver control and helps maintain
directional stability under all conditions. Provides the greatest
benefit in critical driving situations, including turns, and is
especially valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions such as
snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between what
the driver intends through the steering and the vehicle’s path, ESP
applies selective braking and throttle input to put the vehicle back
onto the driver’s intended path (standard)
* Energy-absorbing Steering Column: Utilizes two hydroformed coaxial tubes
that can move relative to each other and allow the column to move
forward for enhanced energy-absorption during a crash. The power-adjust
steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during
column-stroke for optimal energy management (standard)
* Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): In the event of an accident,
automatically turns on the interior lighting and unlocks the doors after
air bag deployment, making it easier for emergency personnel to see and
reach the vehicle occupants. EARS also shuts off the flow of fuel to the
engine (standard)
* Head Restraints: Reduce head movement in the event of a collision
(standard)
* Height-adjustable Seat Belts: Allows occupants to raise and lower the
shoulder belt, which encourages seat-belt usage by offering a more
comfortable fit (standard)
* HomeLink Universal Home Security System Transceiver: Stores three
separate radio-frequency codes to operate garage-door openers, security
gates, security lighting and other radio-controlled devices (available)
* Interior Head-impact Protection: Includes interior pillars above the
beltline, instrument panel, windshield and rear window headers, roof and
side rail structures and shoulder-belt turning loops, specifically
designed to limit head-impact forces (standard)
* Knee Bolsters: Enable the air bags to work effectively by properly
positioning the vehicle occupant (standard)
* Remote Keyless Entry with Illuminated Entry: Locks and unlocks doors,
and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a vehicle-
theft security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
(available)
* Removable/Rechargeable Light-emitting Diode (LED) Flashlight: Mounted in
the headliner above the cargo area, snaps out of the bezel to serve as a
flashlight (available)
* Structural Safety Cage: Protects occupants by managing and controlling
energy in the event of an impact (standard)
* Seat-belt Pretensioners: During a collision, immediately remove slack
from the seat belts, thereby reducing the forward movement of the
occupant’s head and torso (standard)
* Sentry Key(R) Engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an
embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security key code to shut the
engine off after a few seconds if the correct key is not inserted
(standard)
* Side Guard Door Beams in Front and Rear Doors: Provide occupant
protection during a side impact (standard)
* Side Occupant Protection System: Includes side-curtain air bags with
roll detection system that deploy in certain rollover situations and
side-impact events. Utilizes information from multiple sensors to
determine the severity of the impact (standard)
* Supplemental Seat-mounted Side Air Bags: Housed in the outboard side of
each front seat, offer enhanced protection of the driver and front
outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own
impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where
the side impact occurs (available - late availability)
* Supplemental Side-curtain Air Bags: Extend protection to all outboard
front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact
sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag where the side impact
occurs (standard)
* Three-point lap Shoulder Seat Belts: Three-point lap and shoulder belt
retractors incorporate a pre-tensioning feature to enhance occupant
protection in an impact by managing occupant energy (standard)
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPM): Includes pressure-sensor modules
integrated within the valve stems of all four road wheels that send
continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver to inform occupants
when the pressure is too low (available)
* UConnect(TM) Hands-free Communication System: Uses Bluetooth(R)
technology to provide voice-activated wireless communication between the
occupants’ compatible cell phones and the Patriot’s onboard receiver.
The hands-free option promotes safety, freedom, value and flexibility

Jeep(R) and Marvel Comics Invite Consumers to Create Their Own Jeep Adventure by Helping Write an Online Comic Book Featuring the All-New 2007 Jeep Patriot Compact SUV

Online adventure story called “The Patriot Factor” - All-new Jeep Patriot helps four heroes outfox villains and solve a mystery - Consumers can register on the Web to submit story ideas at Jeep.com - Participants can receive original artwork, authorship credit and copies of printed book

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — In a nationwide promotion for the all-new 2007 Jeep(R) Patriot compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV), the Jeep brand and Marvel Comics today announced “The Patriot Factor,” an on-line adventure comic book whose story line will be provided by consumers.

The four young protagonists of “The Patriot Factor” are thrust into an adventure whose success depends, in part, on their 2007 Jeep Patriots. Beginning at noon (EST) on Feb. 8, readers can propose action and dialogue for the panels of each chapter of “The Patriot Factor” at www.patriotfactor.com, (which also can be reached from the brand’s main Web site, www.Jeep.com). A team of reviewers from the Jeep brand and Marvel Comics will select the best submissions. In addition:

- Participants whose ideas are selected as inspiration for the 20-page,
online comic book will receive the original illustrated panel created
by accomplished Marvel artist Bing Cansino. They also will be listed as
authors in the printed book, which will be 28 pages. (The additional
pages are the front and back covers, and advertising.)

- The first 100,000 fans who register online by providing their contact
information will receive the 28-page version of “The Patriot Factor.”

“At a base price of $14,985, the 2007 Jeep Patriot is designed to attract a younger customer who has always wanted a Jeep but couldn’t afford one,” Jay Kuhnie, Director-Jeep Communications, said. “With the explosion of online communities, the expansion of the comic book genre into film and video games, and the continued popularity of comic books, ‘The Patriot Factor’ is an excellent way to introduce the Jeep Patriot to and engage our target audience with the product and the Jeep brand.

“While there have been online comic books before, ‘The Patriot Factor’ is unique because it uses product integration to help initiate and sustain a creative collaboration between artist and reader,” Kuhnie said.

Robert Sabouni, Vice President of Business Development, Marvel Entertainment, added, “The huge Marvel fan base is a very active community. Our readers are always getting in touch with us and providing comments on fan sites about our various comic book series. This project is really exciting in that it provides our legions of fans, and fans of the action genre in general, with a unique interactive experience enabling them the rare opportunity to directly impact a comic book story.”

To kick off the story line, Cansino has completed the first five pages of “The Patriot Factor.” How the adventure unfolds after that will depend largely on the imagination of consumers.

The story takes place in an unnamed large city. It begins when Ryan Singer, an acclaimed electronic musician and producer, composes a song using a musical structure based on a series of numbers he overheard two strangers whispering. The story kicks into high gear when the strangers later show up at Singer’s loft, apparently intent on mayhem. Quickly pulled into the story are Singer’s wife, Natalie, and his best friend, Joe Starks. A fourth character, Mason Black, is the behind-the-scenes majordomo of the trio, providing them advice, encouragement and gear, similar to Charlie in the 1970s hit TV show, “Charlie’s Angels.”

The first five pages of “The Patriot Factor” will go on-line first; 15 additional pages will be added in the coming weeks. The panels on pages six and seven are blank, awaiting reader input. They will be writing toward the first panel of page eight, which also is available for viewing. After Cansino illustrates pages six and seven, using the selected consumer suggestions, he will also complete page eight. The process then repeats itself: Online viewers will be given pages nine and 10 to fill in, guided by the opening panel on page 11, and so on through completion.

“Even though Jeep Patriots will be driven by the protagonists, ‘The Patriot Factor’ is not intended to be an adventure story about the Jeep Patriot,” Kuhnie said. “Instead, we want consumers to tell us how the capabilities and features of the Jeep Patriot will help this one-of-a-kind adventure story move forward.”

In one scene, for example, Starks finds a clever use for the vehicle’s flip-down rear speakers that helps chase away the “bad guys.”

Among key elements of the project:

- The plot of “The Patriot Factor” is drawn from the
action/suspense/thriller genre with cues inspired by authors like Ian
Fleming, Tom Clancy or Robert Ludlum.

- “The Patriot Factor” and its four characters personify the core values
of the Jeep brand: freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity.

Based on the Jeep Patriot concept vehicle first introduced at the 2005 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany, the 2007 Jeep Patriot is a modern interpretation of traditional Jeep styling. Jeep Patriot combines the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car or small pickup. Safety features, such as standard side-curtain air bags and standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), add to Jeep Patriot’s tremendous value.

All-new Jeep technology gives Patriot more capability than any other vehicle in its class. The Jeep Patriot will be available in the United States and Canada in three drive configurations: front-wheel drive, Freedom Drive I(TM) (a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode) and Freedom Drive II(TM) Off-Road Package (a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with low range that provides true Jeep 4×4 Trail Rated(R) capability).

“The Trail Rated Jeep Patriot is the most capable 4×4 in the compact SUV segment,” John Plecha, Director-Jeep Marketing and Global Communications, said. “Jeep Patriot’s capability, combined with its classic Jeep design, interior flexibility and terrific fuel efficiency, will attract new buyers to the Jeep brand.”