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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  First Jeep ever - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By winter2 - July 16 - 10:40 am

  This is my first Jeep ever, but second diesel powered vehicle. Have about 1050 miles on it and am still discovering the vehicle. Had a failure at 586 miles. A spike wiped the engine controller and it had to be re-flashed. Works fine otherwise. Construction of this Jeep is very robust and the fit and finish is on par with what the Japanese give you. Engine is strong with excellent power and smoothness. Transmission is generally smooth but a little harsh until warmed up. Great seating, once you get it the way you want it. Good handling and ride once you get rid of the Goodyear garbage tires that come on the Jeep. I would recommend this Jeep in a heartbeat!

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  CRD is perfect - Currently running B20 - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By DucatiGirl - July 14 - 5:20 am

  Love the CRD, bought all options except for the hands free and satellite radio. Wish I would have purchased the hands free cell device, as my cell and radio dont like each other. Love all about it. I run biodiesel B-20 in it, which it loves! Window levers are in a stupid spot, and drivers seat is a little high, as I lose some vision and Im not that tall. Other than that, its perfect! Road noise is minimal, heated seats are wonderful, Mileage is awesome! Would suggest anyone interested in saving money and looking for a diesel engine without spending loads of cash purchase a CRD Liberty 4X4.

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  Jeep Liberty Diesel - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Wilson - July 11 - 1:06 pm

  This in one of the most fun cars I have ever owned. The desel allows me to tow a good size trailer and still get good mileage. I usually run bio-diesel that is an outstanding value. All in all, this is a great car and I would buy another one, if Jeep was smart enough to keep making them. It is a perfect size.

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  OK for short trips - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By 1stjeep - July 10 - 6:10 pm

  Ive had my Liberty for 1 month and its OK. Gas mileage is OK at 24 mpg. The ride is good, but a little bumpy on rough roads. The seats sit high and give the driver a commanding view, but they can be uncomfortable on longer trips. It does great in the snow, even in 2 wheel. As for convenience features it has a lot to be desired - no storage areas other than the glovebox and a small compartment between the front seats. You have to stretch to reach temperature controls as they sit low on the dash. Its a good vehichle for short trips, but not the best family car to purchase.

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  Good Solid Jeep - 2010 Jeep Liberty
  By pfinnegan - July 7 - 4:31 am

  I bought a Jeep Liberty Limited in June 2010 to replace my 1994 Cherokee Sport. My old Cherokee had nothing - no power anything. I got about everything on this Jeep including the touch screen stereo with GPS and sub-woofer. I like the ride, the way it looks and it is great in snow or on back roads in the mountains. I was disappointed in the power it has when it has to go up long mountain roads. Other than that, no problems at 22,000. One bit of advice, run non-ethanol gas for better power and 10% better mileage. On the interstate, I get 22-23 mpg at 70 with the good stuff.

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  not happy with Chrysler product. - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Ouellette, Norman J. - July 6 - 9:30 pm

  Nice looking,decent ride, poor mileage 16.6mpg over 17 months. Very loud engine; not at all happy with this product. First time Chrysler owner will not purchase another ever again. May be good off road?

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  Liberty for All - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Michael Dobbins - July 6 - 5:00 am

  A great SUV, especially if offroad performance and styling are important attributes. Its very stable in town and rock climbing. This Jeep is trail rated.

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  08 Liberty Misunderstood - 2008 Jeep Liberty
  By Rogie - July 1 - 6:23 am

  I researched the heck out of the Liberty. I had owned Liberty in the past and just recently returned a leased Pacifica, a nice sleeper itself. To make a long story short, I dont understand all the mediocre expert reviews, including the 9th out of 9 finish in a recent big magazine. Those reviews turned me off of the Liberty..but I kept coming back to it since it seemed far more inspiring than the boring Rav4, CRV and Escape. The reviews on Edmunds from real people convinced me to stick to my convictions that this vehicle is a quiet gem. I took the plunge and now have one. I love it. 30K and feature rich. No way Rav4, CRV and others can touch it for all around fun factor.

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  Love my Liberty Hate the Transmission - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By Art hound - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my liberty in Feburary of 2003 and have had major transmission problems. I love the smooth ride and the powerful engine. I like to beat all the wranglers off the line! :) The interior is super comfortable and I havent had any troubles with cargo space. The grocery bag hooks are a neat feature.

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  Solid - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By JimmyH - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Very fun to drive and a very solid feeling