True to Jeep heritage, the Liberty offers legitimate 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 practicality and affordability during the week.

For 2005, the Liberty gets a new engine and two new transmissions. With the addition of an advanced, 2.7-liter common-rail diesel engine, Jeep becomes the first midsize SUV available with a diesel engine in the U.S. The Diesel is backed by a five-speed overdrive automatic transmission. A new, six-speed manual transmission replaces the previous five-speed manual.

The Liberty Renegade has seen the most change for 2005, having been fitted with a flatter hood, taller grille, off-road foglamps and taillamp guards. The Renegade now has functional rock rails, four skid plates, and new options, such as taller P235/0R16 all-terrain tires, a GPS navigation radio and an overhead light bar.

The fresher appearance extends across all 2005 models. All receive a new front fascia, grille, foglamps fender flares, and body side-moldings. Interior refinements include relocated power window switches, new instrument panel cluster graphics, and improved seat comfort.