Overview & Reviews

Sold from 2002-'12, the Jeep Liberty was the successor to one of America's original compact SUVs, the Cherokee (which returned in 2014). True to its tough, capable Jeep lineage, the Liberty has considerable off-road capability, thanks to steep approach and departure angles and exceptional suspension travel and articulation. The Liberty was also rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds, a robust figure for its class. These are qualities not found in most other small utility vehicles from this time period, which saw the rise of crossover SUVs optimized for the suburban lifestyle.

Demerits for the Jeep Liberty include a weak engine lineup, with sluggish acceleration and dismal fuel economy from both the four-cylinder and V6 engines offered over the years (the first generation's briefly optional diesel engine is impressively fuel-efficient, however). Interior quality and comfort are also lacking, and by today's standards, the Liberty's general lack of refinement leaves much to be desired.

User Reviews:

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  Driving for the fun of it - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Tom Purcell - May 28 - 11:03 am

  I have enjoyed driving my 2004 Jeep Liberty more than any automobile I have owned. It handles well and has just the right power with the 3.7. The only thing is fuel consumption. Not very good on mileage city or highway.

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  The perfect car for me - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Wilson - May 28 - 10:53 am

  This vehicle is nice to look at and so much fun to drive. It is diffinitely not a bumpy riding car. There is plenty of room for storage.

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  So far sooo good! - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By desertjeeper - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my first American brand car since 1985. I am very happy with this car to date and not one regret. Traded in a RAV4L, what a difference! Way more fun to drive. Surprised at value for money in comparison.

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  The Liberty Twins - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By RNman - May 24 - 10:00 am

  In February 2004 I needed a new commuter vehicle. I purchased a certified used Liberty Renegade in black with all the trimmings. It was on the lot and I stumbled on it. It was the only Liberty on the lot. after a test drive I (and my wife) was convinced that it would be the ideal vehicle to commute as well as be a workhorse on the weekends if I needed it. the problem came when I brought it home and My wife wanted to drive it more than her car (a new 2003 Concorde) I finally gave in, trading in the Concorde for her own 2004 Liberty. we now have two Jeeps and we are very happy with them both.

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  My First Jeep - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By JeaninesJeep - May 24 - 10:00 am

  This was my first new car purchase and my first Jeep. I Love this Jeep. I am a forensic toxicologist and my jobe is 365 days a year. There is no such thing as a snow day for me. My Jeep gets me there and back no problems at all. I will join the rest of the Jeep family and never go back to another type of SUV again. Its very Kid friendly as well. I have 3 of them.The heat in this thing works so good you can cook a meal in it !

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  Jeep Libertys are fun! - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Marianne Smith - May 24 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a Jeep Liberty Sport in 2002 for travel in the snow. It has shown me that not only does it handle well in snow, but in rain, sun, hard ground, and other situations as well. I never have to worry about where Im going or if I break down...its never happened. It feels great to drive and is very easy to handle. The cargo space is every womans dream and the rear door made for easy access to it. The only sown side to the viechle is that when the rear windows are open it causes a loud wind tunnel sound that occ. hurts your ears...but the A/C helps. I have truly enjoyed my experience with it and plan to buy again in the future!

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  Very nice JEEP! - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Joey - May 22 - 6:40 pm

  This is my first Jeep & I love it! Got the Limited, V6 with the leather, sunroof, heated seats & mirrors, 6 CD changer with Infinity speakers. The power is adequate for its class and has a lot of "get up and go!" I wish it was better at the pump ... only about 15-6 MPG. Im 61"/240# and I have plenty of leg room in the front; the back is a bit tight for me. Its fun to drive and handles very well. Recently took it on a long road trip, and its very comfortable and a smooth ride (It does get some wind noise). I was going to purchase foreign, but with the rebates and all that I got with this, I went with American.

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  Which term is correct-liberty or limited - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By cd - May 22 - 10:00 am

  The safety features are great. I could not lock my key inside d/t the anti- lock system. It alerts me when passenger fail to fully close their doors. I really like the exterior appearance but had to get use to the spare tire on back. I feel that there should be other color options for the spare tire covers and maybe some without the white JEEP emblem on them. It is always thirsty for fuel. Overall it has been a great experience owning it.

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  A good choice - 2012 Jeep Liberty
  By jeffinhawaii - May 22 - 9:11 am

  I recently purchased the 2012 Liberty Jet edition. Over the past two weeks that I have had the vehicle, I have found it to exceed my expectations from what I have read in other reviews on line. I bought it based primarily on an emotional response - I had a 2002 Jeep Liberty that finally died. I was looking at other vehicles and then test drove the Jet. If you are looking for a vehicle that has the power, capability and look to plow through rough terrain, but then transition nicely to a luxurious ride, the Jet does it in spades. The seating is comfortable, the cabin well equipped and understandable and it really performs on and off the road. No complaints thus far.

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  Jeep Liberty - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By tracey - May 21 - 9:40 am

  I love my Jeep Liberty. It is very reliable and suits my everyday needs. I am very excited about the new Jeep Commander. I cant wait to see it in person. I am seriously considering trading Liberty in for the Commander. It was love at first sight!