Until the Patriot and Compass are presumably given the green light for production, the Liberty remains the smallest four-door that Jeep offers, taking

Jeep built its reputation on scaling rocks and slinging mud, an image that continues today with every vehicle being "Trail Rated". (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

a stance against car-based competitors in the junior-SUV marketplace. Where vehicles such as the Chevy Equinox or Honda CR-V were designed with the urban commute in mind, they lack the same heavy-duty low gearing range built into the Liberty's design and therefore its off-road capabilities. Remember, Jeep built its reputation on scaling rocks and slinging mud, an image that continues today with every vehicle being "Trail Rated"; meaning that each Jeep model has mastered the grueling Rubicon Trail in stock trim before ever appearing on a showroom floor. Because of this, the Liberty is much more truck-like than most compact 'utes, riding on a ladder frame with a live axle in the rear. The transfer case is stiff, requiring two-handed action.

Many of the Liberty's finer off-roading qualities came to light when a torrential

The Liberty's high ride and narrow pillars provide excellent outward visibility. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)

downpour in late August flooded Toronto's streets. Despite the lines of less qualified cars and sport utilities that lined the roads, the Liberty experienced no difficulties at all, taking to the muck like a duck to water.

If ever you were to forget that you're behind the wheel of a vehicle that's about as capable as junior 'utes come, glance around the interior. Aside from the electroplated silver trim, the console's durable plastic has an embossed pattern inspired by diamond mesh. The SUV's high ride and narrow pillars provide excellent outward visibility as well. My favourite touch can be found in the glove compartment, however; the owner's manual and service booklet sachet are made of olive green fabric stylized like a rucksack, oozing of the wilderness and off-road-ability. But even if most people would prefer to keep their Libertys on freshly paved asphalt, the diesel's extra torque and improved four-wheel drive system should help to conquer steep grades and slippery winter paths.