2005 Jeep Liberty Preview

And the diesel makes perfect sense in today's market. With fuel costs escalating to the point that most consumers are feeling a significant pinch in their budgets,

"The availability of a diesel engine on the Jeep Liberty reinforces the Jeep brand's leadership position in the sport utility market," stated Jeff Bell, Chrysler Group Vice President - Jeep. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

buying patterns are starting to show a small but significant move away from larger SUVs. But the Liberty isn't a large SUV so what's the problem? Although it's compact in size, its robust design and potent 4WD powertrain make for a fairly heavy machine. Therefore, with regards to the V6 model in particular, it's not exactly a fuel miser at 13.4 / 10.2 L/100 km (21 / 28 mpg), making the recent extortion at the pump a tough pill to swallow. The diesel should save about 25 percent across the board, while making it a better off-road performer.

OK, the fuel economy benefits are obvious but how does an oil burner reduce emissions first of all, and then what makes it better for serious 4x4 expeditions? To answer the former, the additional pollutants excreted by diesel engines are compensated by the engine not using as much fuel in the first place. The benefits do not follow an exact science, but overall there is usually about a 17 percent reduction in emissions. Depending on the diesel fuel itself, however, particulates can actually go up. By 2006 diesel fuel has to be refined to a new, much higher tolerance, which will dramatically reduce particulate pollutants, meaning diesel technology will become a lot cleaner here at home.

And why does a diesel-powered SUV make a better off-roader? Well, once again the word "better" needs to be defined. Conventional diesels won't make the 1,400

Diesel power not only delivers greater torque at lower revs than gasoline, but also improves fuel economy. If you look closely you can see the four new power window switches atop the center console. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

horsepower necessary to jump Dennis Anderson's "Gravedigger" monster truck over a stack of cars and a school bus, but most outdoor adventurers adhere to the tread lightly philosophy as it is, so this won't be an issue. Diesel power not only delivers greater torque at lower revs than gasoline, the ideal scenario for crawling over rocky crags and fallen logs, but the improved fuel economy will allow adventurers to make treks farther into the wilderness, out of proximity of refueling stations, before needing to turn back. A quick glance at the resale value of diesel powered Land Rover Defenders and Toyota Land Cruisers in your local classified ad section will show that they are the popular choice among 4x4 enthusiasts, meaning the new Liberty CRD should hold its value better than its gas-powered siblings.