2009 Jeep Liberty in Hampshire, IL - $7,395

Since its introduction in 2002, the Liberty has been a favorite with consumers looking for that special combination of personal freedom and capability delivered by this mid-size Jeep SUV. For 2012, Liberty models are available with new color offerings (delayed availability): Mineral Gray Metallic, Canyon Brown Pearl, Rescue Green Pearl, True Blue Pearl and Black Forest Green Pearl.

Liberty's exterior boasts a rugged, classic Jeep look that captivates and broadens its consumer appeal. Jeep's Sky Slider® full-length open-canvas roof is an industry exclusive and gives the Liberty that "have fun out there" open-air Jeep brand experience.

Offered in Sport, Limited and Jet trim levels, standard power for the Liberty is generated by a 3.7L V-6 engine. A 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission communicates torque to the ground. The Jeep SUV remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated® four-wheel-drive systems – (MP1522) Command-Trac II® and (MP3022) Selec-Trac II®. Command-Trac II® is a part-time four-wheel-drive system, which is the standard 4WD configuration. Command-Trac II operates in 2WD, 4WD Lock, 4 WD Low and Neutral.

The optional Selec-Trac II® is a full-time, active on-demand four-wheel-drive system. Select-Trac II operates in 2WD, 4WD Auto, 4WD Low and Neutral. The Liberty features independent front suspension with rack-and-pinion steering and a five-link rear suspension.

The Liberty SUV features control hardware that starts with an independent SLA (short and long arm) coil spring front suspension and a five-link rear suspension which includes upper and lower trailing links and a track bar for greater lateral stiffness. A link-type stabilizer bar upfront helps control body lean in cornering and lane-change maneuvers. Ample wheel travel and tuned jounce bumpers help maintain the vehicle's consistent ride quality. A low-arm design mounts the upper control arm on the longitudinal rail of the front body structure for optimum stiffness to minimize noise, vibration and harshness.

Inside the cabin an available fold-flat front passenger seat works with the standard 60/40 fold-flat reclining rear seats for impressive combinations when the need exists for hauling people and/or cargo.

In the cargo area, the load floor system has a reversible carpeted surface. Dual latches on either side release for access to a four-inch-deep waterproof storage bin beneath the lid – perfect for muddy boots or flats of flowers. The load capacity of the cargo load floor system is 400 pounds.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 106.1; overall length: 176.9; width: 72.3; height: 71.0

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 3.7L V6 - 210 hp at 5,200 rpm and 235 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm

Transmission: four speed automatic

EPA Fuel Economy: 16 city/22 (2WD); 15 city/21 hwy. (4WD)

Cargo capacity: 62.4 cubic feet

Payload capacity: 1,150 lbs.

Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, traction control, all-speed electronic stability control, active roll mitigation, automatic headlamps, remote keyless entry, engine immobilizer, tire pressure monitoring system, and speed-sensitive automatic door locks. Limited adds Bluetooth hands-free phone system, fog lights, HomeLink garage door opener, and alarm system.

Optional safety features include: navigation system and daytime running lights.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile

Powertrain: 5-year/100,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/100,000 mile

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Jeep Liberty SUV starts from $23,360 for the Sport upto $28,560. Destination charges add $795.