I loved the Patriot and had a 4x4 North FD1 version.
Interior was very plain - lots of hard (but washable) plastic everywhere. Seats are cloth and repel stains well.
The Automatic FD1 in 2007 had excellent capability at clamping brakes on slipping wheels and gaining traction, as it shared a lot of programming with its' off-road cousin the FDII.
I drive this in sand,mud, and deep snow, and it was amazing - but not a true off-road vehicle: only 8.5" ground clearance across the entire bottom.
The car is function-over-comfort. Very capable but not that comfortable, Take yours for a test drive.
Unfortunately, they don't hold their value, and needs lots of maintanance. In 145k kms, I had to replace 5 front lower control arms, rear link ends, and had rust eating the top of the rear wheel well.

WOW. Loved it, replacing only because it's getting older and I got a fantastic off-lease deal on a newer SUV. I pull a 2000lb tent trailer.

Pros: A fantastic, comfortable, well- accessorized minivan. Really awesome when you have the 4.0L engine (I've driven the same van with a 3.8 and the 4.0) . SAme or better real fuel economy, better pick-up, tow capability, and doesn't downshift all the time. Dual DVD means you can listen to the radio in the front, and the kids in the back rows can watch two different movies on their headphones. tri-zone heat/AC keeps everyone happy. Power side doors and trunk are handy. Sunroof makes it fun. Roof Racks are functional and stylish. Stow and Go for the win: 60/40 back bench is confortable. Mid row captains chairs are as good as being the passenger in the front. Lots of storage bins and nooks. MyGig MP3 jukebox carries everyone's music with loads of room to spare - and is accessible to the rear two screens/headphone channels independant and simultaneously to the driver audio.


Cons: Tends to eat brake rotors. Plan on Front Brakes every 30000 kms and rear every 60000kms. Do the Parking Brake Service, as the calipers will seize and break the cables if not lubricated annually. Body sway bar bushings tend to clunk a bit, even after replacement.