Overview

The 2005 Jeep Liberty CRD receives the same enhancements as the rest of the Liberty lineup, but the CRD model is offered only with 4WD in Sport or Limited trim. All 2005 Liberty models received freshened styling meant to reduce its “cute” factor and attract more male buyers. A new Renegade model, not available with the turbodiesel engine, takes the new look a step further with a different hood and more rugged detailing to create a tougher appearance. Inside, the power window switches are easier to find and use, the Liberty can be optioned with a Sirius satellite radio system, and a navigation system is now available. New seats are padded with dual-density foam for greater comfort, and interiors get revised upholstery choices. Fold the 2005 Liberty’s back seat and the load floor is flatter than before.

Though its 160 horsepower rating might not impress, the Liberty CRD’s 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine puts out a whopping 295 lb.-ft. of torque at just 1,800 rpm – the best in the class, according to Jeep. Jeep also claims that the Liberty CRD improves fuel economy by 25 percent, and our testing confirms it. We got 13.8 mpg in a 2005 Jeep Liberty Renegade with the standard 3.7-liter V6, while the Liberty CRD delivered 18.5 mpg. The EPA, optimists that they are, think the Liberty CRD will deliver 21 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Every Liberty CRD is equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission, a Command-Trac two-speed transfer case with low range, four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, and power rack-and-pinion steering. Front suspension is independent with coil springs, low-pressure gas-charged shocks, and a stabilizer bar. In back the Liberty has a solid axle with identical springs and shocks.

Offered in Sport and Limited trim levels, the 2005 Jeep Liberty CRD comes standard with gray bumpers and fender flares, a body-color grille, fog lights, roof rails, a rear wiper, and power mirrors. Power door locks with remote entry, air conditioning, floor mats, cruise control, and a 65/35 split folding rear seat are also included in the $25,290 base price (including $660 destination charge). A CD player delivers tunes through six speakers, and the driver gets comfortable behind a tilt steering wheel wrapped in leather. The power windows include one-touch down operation for the driver and front passenger, and the P225/75R16 all-season tires are mounted on alloy wheels. Dual front airbags with an occupant classification sensor are also standard.

Spend $27,520 for the 2005 Jeep Liberty CRD Limited and you’re rewarded with body-color bumpers and fender flares, chrome exterior detailing, snazzier rims with 17-inch tires, and a cover for the full-size spare tire hanging off the back end. Limited versions also have upgraded upholstery and satin silver plastic trim accents, a cargo cover, a six-way power driver’s seat, and illuminated vanity mirrors. Added safety gear includes a tire pressure monitoring system.

Boulder bashers will want to add the optional Off-Road Group for its Trac-Lok differential, all-terrain tires, skid plates, tow hooks, and heavy-duty engine cooling. The skid plates can be added to the Limited, too, and a Trailer Tow Group available on both models gets you to that 5,000-pound maximum trailer rating. For those who like a good cancer stick now and then, the Smoker’s Group includes a cigar lighter and an ashtray…not that you’ll actually use it to snuff butts.