Claiming
a lion's share of the compact sport utility market isn't just a goal for American-based
auto makers. Call it a divine right. And
the most annointed would have to be the vehicle that evolved from a rudimentary
"general purpose" military runabout a half-century ago into the original
and familiar "Jeep" small sport utility vehicle. We won't go into discussions
about Jeep's present parenthood. For all practical purposes, that side of the
DaimlerChrysler business called "Chrysler Group" remains an American
psyche. With
that said, let's look at Liberty as truly an American emblem as, say, apple pie,
supersized slushes and fly fishing on weekends. The 2-1/2-year-old big brother
of the current, midget-sized Wrangler that evolved from the original Jeep, Liberty
shares a distinct family resemblence, including a sloping hoodline that ends abruptly
at rounded headlamps. That's a purist element Jeep learned not to mess with. So
is it's legendary ability to go through just about anything, like enduring an
off-road course you wouldn't direct your worst enemy to unknowingly drive. Mud.
Muck. Logs jutting out from nowhere. Cresting a hill towards nothing ahead but
sky, trusting the vehicle won't topple downhill after passing the balance point.
During a recent such test, Liberty handled it superbly. But that's the general
idea. With
Liberty you get history, hype, and the cult status that accompanies an icon. But
it comes in a truly comfortable, refined, highway-friendly vehicle. With so much
mandated by tradition, where does it go in 04? Besides improved rear storage and
a welcome passenger-side grab handle, high tech is a major answer. One
important addition: A tire pressure monitor for safety. Bluetooth is another.
For the uninitiated, that's the industry-standard electronics for communications,
not someone who just consumed navy colored fruit. The basis for the Liberty's
"UConnect" electrical system, it links a personal cell phone with the
Liberty's speakers, microphone, and voice recognition ability so there's no fumbling
when using the phone and the call's not dropped when the user gets out. And power
for accessories lasts a full 10 minutes with the ignition turned off and door
open. Most
Liberty's are sold with the 3.7 liter V-6 engine that generates 210 horsepower.
But if you're looking for a loaded version like the Limited Edition or sporty,
four-wheel-drive Renegade, it's best to rule out economy. Such flash and dash
costs more cash. A basic, two-wheel drive, 2.4 liter-I4 version (150 HP), however,
gets an entry price around $18,700. That's still within reach for a lot of entry-level
American idolizers.
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