Launched in 2002, the somewhat revolutionary looking Jeep Liberty boasted an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.
However ride quality is jittery.
Further, the cockpit is narrow and a bit hard to access.
Handling was clumsy, but ultimately secure.
Off-roading is the Liberty's strong suit.
The noisy 3.7-liter V6 is lethargic and thirsty.
Stability control and ABS were made standard for 2006.
A slow and noisy diesel version was briefly offered, but it returned just 18 mpg overall in our tests and was dropped in 2007.
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