Jeep Liberty

Safety

For a vehicle that ceased production in 2012, the Jeep Liberty still comes with a wide range of safety features. Standard features across most models, even in the early 2000s, include anti-lock braking (ABS) and traction control systems (TCS), which brake individual wheels to keep the car stable during hard braking and acceleration. Newer models, closer to the end of its production, also have an electronic stability control (ESC) suite. ESC includes Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM), both of which employ the brakes to stop unwanted movements. Other standard features include:

• Driver and passenger front airbags
• Industry-standard child seat anchor system (LATCH), which accepts most types of child car seats
• Tire pressure monitoring warning system (on newer models, optional on old)

Interior

The Jeep Liberty’s interior majors on simplicity. The plastics may be hard to the touch, but all controls fall easily to hand and are clear to read. The Jeep Liberty features a few different interior styles and colours over its two generations, usually dependent on specific trim levels. Lower trims stick to cloth, while higher-end models feature leather. We recommend test-driving a few to pinpoint your preferences. Additional options include power-adjustable, heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Technology

Being an older model, the Jeep Liberty lacks the tech levels found on modern crossovers. However, it does have Bluetooth hands-free calling with voice activation to keep your eyes (and attention) on the road. The optional Media Center on newer models (2008 and onward) includes CD and MP3 functions as well as a 40 GB hard drive. Its 6.5-inch touchscreen isn’t as user-friendly as current Dodge tech, though. An Infinity® eight-speaker sound system is also optional.

Space

The Jeep Liberty’s boxy shape provides lots of space for five inside. Second-row passengers may find legroom limited. The trunk is large with a low bumper height, making it easy to unload. The rear window can also open separately from the hatch if you need to grab something small. Both second-row seats and the front passenger seat fold down if you require even more storage room.

Comfort

If you’re leaving the pavement behind, the Jeep Liberty’s tough four-wheel drive and available manual transmission—a rarity in its class—will serve you well. On the tarmac, its square nature makes for plenty of wind and road noise. The available automatic transmission is a four-speed unit, making acceleration from the V6 engine merely adequate. The Liberty offers a compromise between outright rock-crawler and smooth asphalt cruiser. For a heartier off-roader, consider its relative, the Jeep Wrangler. If on-road manners are a priority, we recommend checking out the Jeep Compass or Cherokee.