So after two days of fun where do I go from here? Home, of course, but now

Maybe in a few years I'll be able to find and then bring a classic '50s Willys wagon to a future Jamboree. (Photo: It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World)

I've got a new annual destination to fit into my calendar. You see, I'm planning for next year's Jamboree already, and I won't miss the first day next time. As impressive as the Liberty was, I think I'll talk Jeep into giving me a new Commander for 2006, so I can really travel in style while my CJ, YJ and TJ friends continue to suck dust. And then maybe the year after, I'll go search eBay for a classic '40s Willys, or better yet, a '50s Willys wagon, install a lift kit, oversized tires, redo the interior (and seals), plus retrofit it with 2.8-litre diesel from the new Liberty CRD, and have them bowing down in respect. Ah, the Jeep bug has bitten, but I'm hardly feeling twice shy.


Specifications (Liberty V6):

Price Range (MSRP): $27,460 - $43,850
Body Type: 5-door SUV
Layout: front engine, part-time 4WD
Base Engine: 150 hp, 165 lb-ft of torque, 2.4-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
Optional Engine: 210 hp, 235 lb-ft of torque, 3.7L, 12-valve, SOHC V6
Optional Engine: 160 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque, 2.8L, common-rail turbodiesel I-4
Transmission: 6-spd manual (optional 4-spd auto, optional 5-speed auto with diesel)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc (optional ABS)
Curb Weight (4-cyl - diesel): 1,747 - 1,953 kg (3,648 - 4,306 lbs)
Seating Capacity: 5
Cargo Volume (seat up/down): 821 / 1,950 L (29.0 / 69.0 cu ft)
Ground Clearance (lowest point): 200 mm (7.9 in)
Payload (occupants and cargo): 522 kg (l,l50 lbs)
Towing Capacity (gasoline-diesel): 1,588 - 2,268 kg (3,500 - 5,000 lbs)
Fuel Economy (V6): 13.4 / 10.2 L/100 km (diesel approx. 25 percent reduction)
Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
Direct Competitors: Kia Sorento, Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Grand Vitara
Web Site: www.jeep.ca or www.jeepjamboreecanada.com