The Jeep brand hangs its reputation on its off-road prowess. With a lineup of SUVS ranging from the small Compass through the large Commander, Jeep has all the niches covered. Ironically, it is the new version of one of the oldest Jeeps models, the rugged Wrangler that has garnered the most attention. The stretched four-door Wrangler, with its increased passenger and cargo capacity was one of Chrysler's biggest hits last year.

For 2008, the Liberty compact SUV gets an all-new look that echoes the squared-off styling idiom of older Jeep models. A 3.7L V6 is standard, but buyers can choose from two-wheel and four-wheel drive, and manual and automatic transmissions.

An updated 4.7L V8 with more power enhances the Grand Cherokee and Commander models. The Grand Cherokee also gets revised front fascia styling and an updated instrument cluster.

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• Jeep for 2008
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Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2008 Jeep Patriot (2.4L) seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee
• 2008 Jeep Liberty
• 2008 Jeep Compass
• 2008 Jeep Wrangler
• 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited