Motoring Blog

One of main best selling off-road vehicles has been the famous veteran Grand Cherokee made by Jeep. Today, after 18 years, the Grand Cherokee is history. In 2002, Jeep introduced the Liberty.

Unfortunately for Jeep, the Liberty did not sell that well although it did bring in some profit. However, initial expectations were not met and the second generation Liberty was unveiled at the 2008 New York Auto Show. Compared with the first one it looks stronger, more serious and a little bit longer as well. The 2008 Liberty also offers more off-road capabilities and comfort.

Automobile Car Blog reports on the engine.

The original Liberty was offered with the ubiquitous 150-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder and 210-hp, 3.7-liter V-6, but at present, the somewhat feeble iron-block, aluminum-head V-6 is the only engine for 2008. Towing capacity is 5000 pounds. Somewhat surprisingly, the new Liberty doesn’t get the 260-hp, 4.0-liter and five-speed automatic from its twin, the Dodge Nitro.

What is interesting is that there is no diesel powered engine available because Jeep didn’t meet emission standards. On the other hand, petrol-powered engines don’t have enough power and acceleration is pretty slow as a result. However, as MOTORCARINFO reports here are some positive changes as well.

The new interior sports attractive, straightforward controls, though some find the front seats and footwells to be too narrow. The back seat now offers good room and better support than it used to, and the new optional Sky Slider sunroof has a huge opening.

While it;s true that there isn’t any any car ideal for all purposes, slow acceleration will likely not stop a true adventurer as it’s hard to imagine that fast acceleration is necessary in an off-road vehicle.

Enjoy the test-drive below.

Photo: © Photographer10

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