JEEP fans may lament the softening of the rough, tough image of the Cherokee but survival is the name of the game.
The transformation to a softer profile is in line with the typical standard Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) in Europe and therefore imperative to the American 4x4's challenge in an aggressively tough market sector.
After an absence of three years in the UK following difficulties across the Atlantic, new owners Fiat have produced a modern take on the Cherokee.
It is more aerodynamic, has lots more hi-tech but offers the driver less connection with the SUV.
Sacrifice of mechanical dialogue between driver and machine has, however, resulted in higher comfort levels and improved ease of driving as well as major safety advances.
Architecture is morphed towards the Eurpean-styled SUV but, thankfully, it does retain some of its Jeep-ness - with aggressive, squared-off wheel arches and that unmistakable seven-bar grille.
And just in case it slipped anyone's attention, there is a reminder of the brand's wartime heritage with a "since 1941" motif on the steering wheel.
Apart from this latter feature, there's little to compare the interior of the latest generation Cherokee with the cabin of its predecessor.
The new Cherokee undoubtedly presents as a much more modern, family wagon with a minimalist control panel.
Decluttering the facia and including a touchscreen together with the generous space and quality furnishing has pushed the Cherokee upmarket.
A more premium approach inside as well as outside, plus the excellent command position bodes well for those wanting an easy-to-car SUV with reasonably frugal running costs - plus the carrot of some degree of off-road capability.
The latest Cherokee comes with a 2.0-litre diesel engine with two outputs - 138bhp and 168bhp - with the former powering this model.
This was a 4x4 version but there is also a 2x4 version for those unlikely to venture far from the urban jungle.
Mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the engine had its work cut out hauling around what is a fairly hefty vehicle at 1,846kg.
It does the job, but it can seem lethargic at times, especially if you don't constantly work the gears at low speeds.
The larger 168bhp might be a better choice, but you would have to settle for a less impressive fuel return.
On the motorway and open roads, the Cherokee is happy to cruise without any problem.
There is some notchiness through the transmission but it's not a major problem. You do get the expected diesel clatter filtering into the cabin though this is more acute at start-up and when the engine is pressed. Otherwise, engine noise is limited to acceptable levels, as is wind and road noise.
The Cherokee handles okay but the super soft suspension robs the SUV of composure through bends when there is a good degree of lean.
Comfort levels are key in this model and they are very impressive with the suspension devouring most craggy bumps and dents easily.
Off-road capability is assured but it is not in the same lea gue as Land Rover. Nor is it as strong and rugged as the recently arrived 3.2-litre petrol Trailhawk version which boasts much more 4x4 power and agility.
It can, however, employ four-corner grip on slippery roads and tracks when needed and seamlessly revert back to two-wheel drive when not required.
The Active Drive system enables 4x4 to be engaged and disengaged automatically at any speed.
This car was specced in top Limited trim which brings a wealth of equipment and technology for £33,195, but the optional Cherry Red paintwork, a full panoramic sunroof and a full-size tyre took the price up to £34,995. Billed as having 70 safety-related features, unsurprisingly the Cherokee gained a EuroNCAP five-star rating for safety.
This peace of mind and fairly frugal running costs - averaged fuel consumption is just over 50mpg - will give it a fighting chance against rivals.