The Jeep Liberty from Jeep, a subsidiary of Chrysler is a compact sport utility vehicle, debuted in the model year 2002. It is also called as Jeep Cherokee in the countries other than North America. The price of the model slots between Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Wrangler versions. It is one of the small 4-door SUVs in the market today.
First Generation (2002-2007)
Similar to the Jeep Cherokee, the first generation Liberty is built on unibody construction. Though the model was introduced in 2002, it was slightly redesigned in 2004 and in 2007. For 2007, it is offered in two versions, Sport and Limited. The available engines to the model in this generation include 4-cylinder version that delivers 150 hp of power and a 3.7 liter V6 engine that produces 210 hp of power and 200 lb ft of torque. The V6 engine is offered as optional, while the I-4 version is offered as standard.
2002 Jeep Liberty
The available I-4 engine comes mated to a manual transmission, while the other engine can be paired to either automatic or manual transmission. It is offered in either four wheel drive or in rear wheel drive, both comes with low ranging gearing.
The highlight features that mark the 2002 Jeep Liberty model include off road capability and cargo room. On the other hand, the fuel economy rates, ride quality and engine noise at higher speeds are considered as potential drawbacks.
The standard features on all the models include sunroof, 16 inch wheels, leather upholstery, and 65/35 split folding rear seat. With the help of its powerful engine, the compact SUV model, Jeep Liberty can tow maximum up to 5000 pounds. The major competitors to the model include Mazda Tribute, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.
Second Generation (2008- present)
The current generation Jeep Liberty model is totally redesigned in 2008, gaining more powerful engine, few new features and revised exterior styling. It shares its basic design with Dodge Nitro and it is offered in two trim versions, Sport and Limited.
Power to the current generation Jeep Liberty model comes from 3.7 liter V6 engine that delivers 210 hp of power at 6000 rpm and torque of 205 lb ft at 4500 rpm. It comes mated to 4-speed automatic transmission and offers 6-speed manual transmission as optional.
2008 Jeep Liberty
The best buy vehicles apart from Jeep Liberty model include Toyota RAV4, Saturn Vue, Volkswagen Tiguan, Suzuki Grand Vitara and Honda CR-V. New redesigned models for 2009 include Subaru Forester and GMC Terrain.
