Designed for the urban adventurer type, the Jeep Liberty first made its appearance as a 2002 model before being upgraded in 2008 to its second-generation platform. Liberty offered shoppers the typical SUV requirements- namely a fair amount of ground clearance, moderate towing capacity, four wheel drive and a selection of options and accessories.
Where Liberty went above the norm was with its drive system. The Command-Trac transfer case offered four-low, four-high and two-high settings- allowing a pre-set power split between the front and rear axles to be engaged with a quick pull on a lever. The four-high setting could be used in snow and gravel, while the low-range was ideal for low-traction situations or creeping up or down hills.
Opting for a used model with the Select-Trac transfer case added a 'full-time'four wheel drive range which could be pre-emptively selected in nasty weather to act as an all-time wheel drive system. End of the day, Liberty offers up plenty of traction with the control that Jeep owners require. There's no wimpy 'automatic all wheel drive' for this machine.
Depending on the year in question, you'll find availability with either a four or six cylinder engine, and an automatic or manual transmission. The six cylinder was the first instance of Jeep's new 3.7 liter V6 which developed 210 horsepower, while the 2.4 liter four cylinder made due with 150.
Later in the Liberty's life, the four cylinder engine was dropped- though an Italian-made turbo-diesel became available. The diesel engine made 160 horsepower and nearly 300 lb.-ft of torque before being killed off by stricter emissions requirements.
Inside, look for the usual SUV hardware as standard or optional- namely air, cruise, power locks, windows and mirrors, keyless access and a sunroof. Several trim levels were available from a basic 'sport' up to a nicely trimmed 'limited' with heated seats and a dressed up body.
Liberty owners tend to rate their machine's styling and sturdy, planted ride the most highly when surveyed. Handling also seems highly-rated, as does the visibility from the cabin. Capability is also exceptional compared to more road-oriented SUV's. More comfortable and roomier choices exist though, so be sure to prioritize your needs and then research and test-drive several models to see which one will be the best fit.
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Where Liberty went above the norm was with its drive system. The Command-Trac transfer case offered four-low, four-high and two-high settings- allowing a pre-set power split between the front and rear axles to be engaged with a quick pull on a lever. The four-high setting could be used in snow and gravel, while the low-range was ideal for low-traction situations or creeping up or down hills.
Opting for a used model with the Select-Trac transfer case added a 'full-time'four wheel drive range which could be pre-emptively selected in nasty weather to act as an all-time wheel drive system. End of the day, Liberty offers up plenty of traction with the control that Jeep owners require. There's no wimpy 'automatic all wheel drive' for this machine.
Depending on the year in question, you'll find availability with either a four or six cylinder engine, and an automatic or manual transmission. The six cylinder was the first instance of Jeep's new 3.7 liter V6 which developed 210 horsepower, while the 2.4 liter four cylinder made due with 150.
Later in the Liberty's life, the four cylinder engine was dropped- though an Italian-made turbo-diesel became available. The diesel engine made 160 horsepower and nearly 300 lb.-ft of torque before being killed off by stricter emissions requirements.
Inside, look for the usual SUV hardware as standard or optional- namely air, cruise, power locks, windows and mirrors, keyless access and a sunroof. Several trim levels were available from a basic 'sport' up to a nicely trimmed 'limited' with heated seats and a dressed up body.
Liberty owners tend to rate their machine's styling and sturdy, planted ride the most highly when surveyed. Handling also seems highly-rated, as does the visibility from the cabin. Capability is also exceptional compared to more road-oriented SUV's. More comfortable and roomier choices exist though, so be sure to prioritize your needs and then research and test-drive several models to see which one will be the best fit.
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| The six cylinder was the first instance of Jeep's new 3.7 liter V6. |