The 2.8-liter engine is rated at an estimated 160 hp at 3800 rpm, and 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 1800 rpm, which Bell says is "class-leading torque and towing capability."
Diesel engines "offer another option for increased torque, towing and range," Bell says, "while improving fuel economy an average of 25 percent and reducing CO2 emissions by an average of 20 percent."
To help improve the engine's chances of finding buyers, Jeep will make it available on both Sport and Limited models.
Bell also took a few moments to ring the bell for Liberty's position in the sport-cute segment overall. "True to its Jeep heritage, the 2005 Jeep Liberty continues to give enthusiasts a sense of personal capability and freedom by offering the best four-wheel-drive lineup in the segment," he said, adding that "the Jeep Liberty distinguishes itself from less capable 4 x 4s."
In Bell's view, Liberty clearly stands apart among car-based sport-utility vehicles in terms of capability, as well as truck-based offerings in terms of on-road refinement.
"A coil spring independent front suspension and link-coil rear suspension provide an exceptional on-road ride and legendary off-road capability," Bell claimed.
Bell also noted that the revised Jeep Liberty 4 x 4 models are what Chrysler likes to call "Trail Rated" and meet or exceed the minimum requirements established by the Nevada Automotive Test Center and Jeep Engineering.
Not surprisingly because it pretty much invented the notion of "trail rated", Jeep has the only vehicles that are so designated.
