2002 Jeep Liberty

Replacing the 18-year old Cherokee is a roomier new SUV with a more-sophisticated suspension and available curtain side airbags. Liberty retains unibody construction, but is about three inches longer in wheelbase and seven inches longer overall than Cherokee. Its taller, wider, and about 400 lb heavier, too. The only body is a 4-dr wagon. Its tailgate swings opens to the left and carries the outside-mounted spare tire. Libertys coil-spring suspension is independent in front and replaces Cherokees solid-axle, leaf-spring setup. Two models are offered. The Sport has contrasting-color body cladding. The Limited Edition has monochromatic exterior and brushed-metallic interior trim. Sport comes with a 150-hp 4-cyl engine. Optional on Sport and standard on Limited is a new 210-hp 3.7-liter V6. The 4 cyl uses manual transmission, the V6 gets manual or automatic. Liberty offers rear-wheel drive, Jeeps Command-Trac 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement, or Jeeps Selec-Trac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pav Minimize