The second generation 2008 Jeep Liberty went into production on July 24, 2007. The Jeep Liberty has two Trail Rated® four-wheel-drive systems – Command-Trac® and the Selec-Trac® II - and on-road ride and handling have been improved with the new independent front suspension, five-link rear suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering. The interior returns to the squarish Cherokee look, enhanced by the new Sky Slider™ full-open canvas roof, giving the Jeep Liberty an open-air experience.
Inside, cargo and storage space increased and seat comfort improved; remote start, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, and express up/down windows were added.
The six speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions continue. The standard 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine produces 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy (with the standard - and only - V6) was improved by about 2 mpg with either stick or automatic; it is now an estimated 16 city (18 mpg using 2007 EPA standards), and 22 mpg on the highway (23 mpg based on 2007 EPA standards). Wind drag remains high but is now lower than the Dodge Shadow; the improvement in aerodynamics may have counteracted the increase in weight.
The 2008 Jeep Liberty has safety systems including standard electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, all-speed traction control, brake assist, anti-lock brakes, rain sensing wipers, tire pressure monitoring, and side-curtain air bags.
