2008 Liberty vs Wrangler Sahara

[haven]

The 2008 Jeep Liberty "KK" Limited 4x4 is a sophisticated small sport utility vehicle. Despite its unibody construction and independent front suspension, the 2008 Liberty is quite capable off road (as Scott found on the Rubicon Trail recently.)



Jeep's Wrangler Sahara Unlimited 4x4 is similar in many ways to the 2008 Liberty. The two models have the same engine and transmission choices, similar MPG ratings, the same 4 wheel disc brakes, similar wheel and tire choices, similar 4x4 control systems, even the same ground clearance. The Wrangler has a better departure angle due to its longer wheelbase, but otherwise the two vehicles have similar overall length, approach angle, breakover angle, overall weight, and payload. The price of the two vehicles is within a few hundred dollars.

I was surprised to find that the Wrangler is 10 inches wider than the Liberty. This means the Wrangler has more space for cargo. However, the shorter wheelbase and narrower width of the Liberty give it a significantly smaller turning diameter (36 vs 41 ft).

Both Wrangler Sahara and Liberty Limited use the Command Track part-time four wheel drive system. However, for $445 more, the Liberty can be equipped with the full-time 4x4 Selec Track system, as found on the Grand Cherokee. The full-time system is an advantage for less experienced 4x4 drivers who travel in changing conditions (a snowstorm on the way to the ski slopes, for example).

There's no doubt that the Wrangler Rubicon, with lower gears, stronger axles and taller tires, is a better choice for gnarly off-road use than the Liberty. But I think the Liberty is better than any Wrangler for general use that includes daily driver chores as well as weekend off-road use. The Liberty is capable enough for most off-road journeys, and the independent suspension is a lot more comfortable in everyday use.

While the Wrangler will attract more attention in a high school parking lot, the Liberty is likely to be a better day-to-day companion. I think Jeep has a winner here. Now let's see if 3rd parties produce aftermarket upgrades like off-road bumpers and mild lift kits for the Liberty.

Chip Haven

[chet]

it looks alright although they mad it kinda tough to get an aftermarket front bumper with those huge flare/bumpers on there!

[pete.wilson]

Hey

My vote is the wrangler; much more aftermarket stuff available and always will be; not to mention you will find resale value better. I have seen 99 wranglers (TJ) bringing as much as my 99 grand cherokee and when you consider the difference in the initial purchase price of each, WOW. It comes down the same thing: It's all in what you want.

[kcowyo]

As long as Wranglers have a removable top, they will always be the prefered vehicle of the Jeep offerings, IMO.

A more narrow Liberty, with IFS on a unibody....?
Why does Jeep insist on watering down it's legacy by adding car-Jeeps to their lineup?

Scott is great at finding something positive to say. I'm not, so I'll just say 'No thanks.'

[Scott Brady]

4-door Rubicon, no question... The Rubicon is built at the highest possible durability level (while maintaining mass market appeal). I would not be surprised if the service live of the JK Rubicon is twice that of the KK.

The KK rides great and has reasonable trail performance. Remember, we needs lots of KK's to sell to support development of vehicles like the Rubicon. Every model has it's place (though I wonder about the Compass at times )

Two different classes of vehicles IMHO.

[upcruiser]

Kind of offtopic, but Scott, I just got my September issue of Road and Track and that shot of you airing out the Compass was used. Did you write the blurb about it too? The bottom of the paragraph had the initials SB. Anyway, cool to see.

[calamaridog]

The Liberty and Wrangler do not share the same V6 engine. The Liberty gets the 3.7L V6 while the Wrangler gets the 3.8L V6 from the minivan.

I don't see how the Select Trac "full time" system is only a benefit for "inexperienced" drivers? If you drive on the highway in rain or snow, which most people do, you should absolutely opt for this value option. Who wouldn't want full time 4wd capability on the highway during inclement weather? Madness I say, madness!

The aftermarket has barely embraced the first generation Liberty, and no matter what you do, you can barely mount a 32" tire due to those small damn fender wells. The IFS definitely needs improvement from the first generation model. I can only hope the 2nd generation IFS has seen some improvements. Hopefully they replaced the breakage prone aluminum front housing as well.

I like our Liberty, but due to tiny cargo volume it is really not that useful to us other than as a daily driver or for short trips. I do like the new look of the 2nd generation Liberty and I believe it has more cargo room as well.

[Scott Brady]

Kind of offtopic, but Scott, I just got my September issue of Road and Track and that shot of you airing out the Compass was used. Did you write the blurb about it too? The bottom of the paragraph had the initials SB. Anyway, cool to see.

I was just the driver

[goodtimes]

That green Patriot gets alot of press. I have seen that photo used in probably a dozen different reveiws.

[upcruiser]

Was it the Patriot? Man, I get those things confused alot. No wonder why I guess.