There are quite a few upgrades to this year's Jeep Liberty,
and the manufacturer can only expect its appeal to grow
as a result. Originally introduced in 2002, the Liberty
has become an instant success in its class with retail sales
of 145,000 units in the calendar year 2003.
Tops among the upgrades for the 2005 Jeep Liberty is the
availability of a new diesel engine, one of the first in
a smaller SUV for North American markets. There's also a
new interior and exterior trim for both the Sport and Limited
models. Oh yeah, the diesel engine just happens to have
the best-in-class torque, towing and range.
Available Models
The 2005 Jeep Liberty is available in three models: Sport,
Limited and Renegade. The Renegade is covered in a separate
review.
Interior Features
The interior improvements begin with new seats using dual-density
foam. Other changes include relocated power window switches
that are easier to access and operate and new instrument
cluster graphics featuring white letters on a gray background.
For 2005, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and a DVD-based Navigation
Radio are available on all models. Also available are a
6-disc CD changer and Infinity speakers.
Exterior Features
The 2005 Jeep Liberty is given a new front fascia, grille,
fog lamps, fender flares, bodyside moldings, new standard
roof racks and wheels. Two new exterior colors are Dark
Khaki Pearl Coat and Deep Beryl Green Pearl Coat.
Performance
The new available engine for Sport and Limited models is
a 2.8-liter common rail diesel model. Providing class-leading
torque and towing (5000 lbs), the diesel engine is rated
at an estimated 160 horsepower at 3800 rpm and 295 lb-ft
of torque at 1800 rpm. It uses a new 5-speed automatic transmission.
Entry-level Sport models use a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder
engine that pumps out 150 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 165
lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. It is coupled to a new 6-speed
manual transmission.
Standard with Limited models and optional with the Sport
is a 3.7-liter V6 engine. It will produce 210 horsepower
at 5200 rpm and 235 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The 3.7
is mated to either 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic
transmission.
All 2005 models offer rear-wheel drive or a choice of two
4WD systems, both with low-range gearing. Jeep's Command-Trac
4WD should not be left engaged on dry pavement, while Selec-Trac
4WD can be left engaged on dry pavement.
Safety and Security
Dual front airbags and 4-wheel disc brakes are standard.
Curtain side airbags, antilock brakes and a tire-pressure
monitor (Limited) are optional.
2005 Jeep Liberty - New
for 2005
Enhancements
include exterior updates and interior refinements
Liberty Renegade offers a more rugged look, and classic
Jeep® appearance
New turbo diesel engine has best-in-class torque,
towing and range
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