Imagine a pit bull, with its muscular jaws and taut flanks.

Now, think of the dog as a pup: vaguely intimidating, but impossible to take seriously.

Such is the challenge confronting Jeep as it rolls out the diminutive ’07 Patriot, the third variant off Chrysler Group’s front-wheel-drive C-segment platform. (The Dodge Caliber and Jeep Compass were first and second.)

More ambitious still is Jeep’s insistence on pinning its venerable Trail-Rated badge on Patriot’s top trim level.

The good news: This puppy can run with the big dogs.

On the down side, Patriot can use a little extra grooming.