2004 Jeep Liberty Review

The Liberty's body is tall, providing the driver with a commanding view of the terrain ahead. In terms of exterior dimensions, the Liberty fits between the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. With an overall length off 174.4 inches, it's slightly longer than the Ford Escape. It's longer than Jeep's classic Wrangler as well, but 7 inches shorter and as much as 500 pounds lighter than the Grand Cherokee.

The Sport model is trimmed with a gray front fascia, and accent-color body-side moldings and wheel flares that give it a rugged, youthful look.

Limited models are distinguished by body-colored trim and unique aluminum wheels that create a more sophisticated appearance.

The Renegade is instantly distinguished by a bold light bar integrated into the leading edge of the roof. It also features a roof basket, bolt-on fender flares, removable side steps, unique graphite-painted aluminum wheels, and a body-colored front fascia. The activity light bar houses four halogen lamps designed to light rocky terrain or a nighttime game of beach volleyball. (Be aware that operating roof lights may not be legal on your roads.) The Renegade was inspired by Jeep's Dakar concept. It comes in a limited choice of colors: Bright Cactus Green, Light Khaki, silver, and black.

A neat feature on all models: Yanking hard on the outside door handle causes the glass hatch to swing up as the door itself is swinging out, which saves time and effort. Pulling on the handle with less force causes just the glass hatch to swing up. Also, the door swings open from the right, better for curbside pickups at the airport.