True to Jeep heritage, the Liberty offers serious off-road capability. In this respect, it stands apart from the herd of compact sport-utility vehicles, few of which offer true off-road capability. The Liberty gives up some refinement and road agility to do this. On the road, it does not ride or handle as well as some of the other small SUVs. But the Liberty is among the best of the small sport-utilities for drivers who need serious off-road capability on the weekend yet need refinement, practicality and affordability during the week.

Just two years old, the Liberty debuted as a 2002 model. It was significantly improved for 2003 with improved on-road stability. The 2004 model offers further, substantial upgrades in safety equipment, and in comfort and convenience options. For example, Chrysler's Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS), which unlocks doors and turns on interior lights five seconds after an airbag deploys, is standard for 2004. New options include a tire-pressure monitor; and UConnect, a clever bit of hardware and software which integrates your cell phone into the Liberty's stereo system.