Great news for Jeep. The Libert diesel is on pace to double the expected sales figures set for it back in 2005. They’re about to run through 10,000 units since the launch in early 2005. That’s a dramatic difference to the last time Jeep offered a diesel option. Back in the 1980’s, Cherokees equipped with the Renault diesel engine languished on dealer lots and many were sold at cost or below just to get them off the lots.

Today, every Jeep Liberty diesel ships from the factory with B-5 diesel, too. This blended fuel (5% bio-fuel) is the key to an energy-conservative future for us. Since diesels can run on 100% biofuel, the ability exists for us in North America to produce our own fuel supply without dependance on crude oil for diesel powered motors. While not a 100% solution, it’s a very positve step fowrad, and Jeep shoud be commended for supporting it.

If you’ve never driven one of these great rigs, you’re missing out on something unique.

Sure, it’s noisier than a V-6 model, but the amount of low-end torque is eye-opening. Good thing they ship with traction control. Delivering almost the same overall horsepower ratings as the gas models, but with greatly improved real-world fuel economy, it’s no wonder they’ve caught on and become a hit.

Even moderately aggressive tipping-in of the throttle will induce a flashing dashboard light as the traction control works overtime to keep track of spinning rear tires.

Turned off, there’s great fun to be had, not that we’d condone such behavior.

Driven sanely, the Liberty diesel is said to be good for about 800 kms per fill-up. VERY useful range, and given that in our area diesel is cheaper than regular unleaded, worthwhile over the long-run, too.

And if you even think you might ever want to tow anything, this truck is going to be your best friend. Yard-work? Need some soil for the plants, maybe a small tree - hook up the trailer and go - zero drama. In fact, you’ll wonder if there’s anything behind you at all. Only that birch in your rearview mirror pacing you will tell the tale.

Step up and offer to move a friends boat - feel confident. With 4wd and this amount of power, the only limit is the 5,000 lbs tow-rating. THAT is a LOT of boat.

You say you don’t like your neighbor much? No worries, take Friday off, and while he’s at work, wrap a big tow-strap around his house, and yank it off the foundation. Best to look for an empty lot down the road to drop the house off in BEFORE you execute this move.

OK, while it’s not quite THAT powerful, it sure feels like it. It’s like a Liberty on steroids - like the ones fed to the Dodge Cummins models. The Liberty needs a new name when equipped with this motor…

Maybe the Jeep Torque? Nah, too Fast & Furious.

I KNOW! How about Jeep Liberty - Barry Bonds Edition…? This is one Jeep model that’s easily capable of hitting home runs!