The Jeep Liberty is the premier off-road mid sized SUV that has faithfully carried the Jeep logo, in troubled times. The new version of the vehicle comes equipped with the most common rail-turbo diesel option. It is equipped with four cylinder, DOHC sixteen valve injector that is far economical than its predecessor 3.7 liter engine. Recent surge towards a pollution free environment encouraged Jeep designers to pull off a great publicity stint by introducing a much efficient model. Its cousin, the Jeep Cherokee in England is already making in-roads in the SUV market. America is now geared to receive the new model after Chrysler had halted the order of its older Jeep Liberty.
Power behind the Wheels
The Jeep has among the very best torque to haul ratio. Its 160 horse power engine is extremely effective in pulling up greater weights while its smaller English version is still able to provide 266 pound of torque, which is exemplary for a vehicle this size. With a tow rating of 5000 pounds, the new Jeep Liberty gracefully passes every tow truck workout. The Jeep is specially designed for a true off road experience. Adopting the future, Jeep engineers have been sticking with the usual five speed transmission that works quite well on even the bumpiest roads.
Looks
Once inside the Jeep, don’t expect a Hummer cockpit, or for that matter even a Mazda is better. As mentioned, the Jeep is designed for the dirt tracks and country roads. The interior is a typical black and grey combination. Unlike other SUV’s, the outer body comprises of nicely intact parts that fits nicely into the overall frame structure. The image of the Jeep drivers should be Macho, therefore everything from the steering to control panel gives a simple but sturdy look. Keep in mind that this is a mean looking broad-shouldered powerful energy guzzler and ain’t for the weak heart. For just its type, the optional features include the Wrangler tires, skid plates and a dashing fuel tank.
New Engine
Most experts agree that diesel version is definitely the best choice due to its fuel economy and a traditional Jeep touch. Although, it comes with a higher price tag in its class but the fuel economy, stylish looks, storage and hauling power more than compensates for any shortages. To cope with the noise, Liberty’s engine uses a two pilot injection before the fuel can flow towards the main injector. This mechanics help the idle engine calm and produce less noise on acceleration. Jeep has introduced the diesel version on more of a test basis. This is evident from the fact that only the sports and limited models are equipped with diesel power.
Engine Controversy & Future
The Jeep Liberty got its share of the crackdown on ‘naturally not so good looking Carbon dioxide emitting vehicles’. In 2006, the parent company stopped the production of its diesel version due to the strict environmental laws by the United States Government. The safety inspectors at its Ohio plant are already grunting the decision as the Jeep already uses 5 percent of the Soya Bean produced oil. The company says that it intends to include more environmental friendly engines to deal with the upcoming environmental challenges. In spite of the decision, Jeep is holding to a surprise surge in the demand which saw 5000 more units sold in 2006. The bio-fuel (B-5) friendly diesel engine will curb the onslaught of environmentalist who argues that the diesel engines emit Nitrogen Oxide into the air. The new CRD Jeep liberty diesel version is already paving the way for a better and less controversial future.