In some ways the Liberty is cutting-edge. It's innovative two-piece rear door either allows you to pop the glass window open on its own, for loading small items, or raises the glass automatically when you swing open the door - a creative solution. Also easy to live with are the multitude of storage compartments and cup holders, both in the usual places as well as inventively built into the rear doors. There's ample room for large passengers in the rear, and a sizeable payload when the 60/40 split seats are folded down. The power window controls, however, were frustrating. Situated on the center console just below the armrest instead of the usual door position, I continually found myself grasping in vain where I inherently expected them to be. I'm sure that given time I would get it right.
When I start complaining about such minor details, you know that the vehicle in question is above average. Yes, the Jeep Liberty is that good. Staying true to its 4x4 forefathers, the new Liberty stands separate from its compact sport utility competitors in off-road prowess. Still, it's easy to live with for civilian duties making it one of the best dual-purpose compromises to ever roll onto the showroom floor.
Specifications:
When I start complaining about such minor details, you know that the vehicle in question is above average. Yes, the Jeep Liberty is that good. Staying true to its 4x4 forefathers, the new Liberty stands separate from its compact sport utility competitors in off-road prowess. Still, it's easy to live with for civilian duties making it one of the best dual-purpose compromises to ever roll onto the showroom floor.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $23,700 - $36,345
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, uniframe
- Layout: front engine, 4WD
- Base Engine: 150 hp, 167 lb-ft, 2.4-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
- Opt Engine: 210 hp, 235 lb-ft, 3.7-L, 12-valve, SOHC V6
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 5-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt ABS)
- Curb Weight: 1,675 kg (3,692 lb)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Cargo Cap (seat up/down): 821 / 1,946 L (29.0 / 69.0 cu ft)
- Ground Clearance: 244 mm (9.6 in) (after April 2002, 222 mm)
- Towing Capacity: 907 kg (2,000 lb) - 2,250 kg (5,000 lb)
- Fuel Economy: 12.4 / 10.2 L/100 km
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors:Ford Escape/Explorer Sport, Honda CRV, Hyundai Santa Fe, Isuzu Rodeo, Kia Sportage, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Nissan Xterra, Saturn VUE, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4
- Web Site: www.jeep.ca
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