Popular Mechanics presented DaimlerChrysler Corporation with a Design & Engineering Award recognizing excellence in engineering, design and innovation for the all-new 2002 Jeep(R) Liberty. The Design & Engineering Award is the highest honor the magazine can bestow.
"Our Popular Mechanics Design & Engineering Award winners rank among the greatest innovators of the year, and their winning entries are proof," said Joe Oldham, Editor-In-Chief, Popular Mechanics. "The all-new Jeep Liberty's unique four-wheel drive system makes this vehicle a true Jeep with legendary 4x4 capability for off-road driving and refined on-road handling, which makes it stand apart from the less capable sport-utility vehicles."
The Jeep Liberty features an all-new coil spring independent front suspension combined with link-coil rear suspension to provide legendary Jeep off-road capability and a new level of on-road ride and handling. It is the first Jeep vehicle to offer rack and pinion steering, which is tuned to give the driver precise control and positive feedback on-road, with enhanced durability for off-road use. The Jeep Liberty also features a patented single-action swing gate/flipper glass system unlike anything on the market today.
"We're thrilled that Popular Mechanics recognizes the innovative engineering of the Jeep Liberty with the 2002 Design and Engineering Award," said Tom Marinelli, Vice President, Chrysler/Jeep Brand Center, DaimlerChrysler Corporation. "The Jeep Liberty has been a huge success since it went on sale in the spring, selling as fast as we can build them, while attracting a younger buyer to the Jeep brand."