When you test a car, make no assumptions. It's a lesson that I've had to relearn occasionally, most recently when I tested the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty.

Several weeks before I drove the Liberty, I had the chance to test Dodge's 2008 Nitro, a small SUV, and it did not go well. While I thought it looked like a cool product, the Nitro had ride, handling and quality issues that disappointed me.

With that in mind, you can imagine the trepidation I felt before getting into the Liberty. Because the vehicles are quite similar, I worried that my reactions would be similar.

But I got a big surprise -- the Liberty Limited model that I drove was far better than the Nitro.

It rode much better and was more comfortable for my passengers. Handling seemed a lot more secure. The quality control was so much greater that there was no contest. The trims, fittings and interior appearance were more attractive, too.

At first glance, you'll see that Jeep has squared up the shoulders on the new Liberty so that it looks more masculine and sophisticated than the previous models, by a long shot.

While I liked the "cute" styling on the previous Liberty, somehow the old model was branded a "woman's SUV" -- a designation I found silly and sexist. Still, this time you'll see a tougher-looking, square-jawed profile, no-nonsense taillights around back instead of the bubbly units from the old model, and a more rugged front end, all of which should please Jeep enthusiasts.

I also figured out why the ride quality and handling was so much better on this new Liberty than on the older model. It's because the vehicle has a new independent front suspension and new five-link rear suspension, both of which increase stability and help to smooth out the ride.

Shocks, anti-roll bars and other bits and pieces were modified for the 2008 model after the old settings on the Nitro, which shares mechanical facets with the Liberty, proved to be not quite right.

The wheelbase is up about 2 inches, which also helps with ride comfort and creates a more spacious feeling.

The Liberty model I drove had larger tires than the Nitro, which could account for the Nitro's more pitchy, bouncy ride. I strongly suggest that buyers test drive Liberty models with several types of tires, since the difference in terms of comfort and road characteristics could be considerable.

I also really liked the updated interior design with tasteful chrome and aluminum accents.

Base prices on the new Liberty range from $20,330 to $26,125. Standard equipment on the Liberty Limited includes a 210-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 that comes with all models, (15/21 fuel economy ratings with all-wheel drive), and a choice of two four-wheel-drive systems, air conditioning and full-power accessories, cruise, alloy wheels, power driver's seat and a wonderful Infinity sound system.

One other new feature is the SkySlide cloth roof, which slides back the full length of the car, thus providing an open, spacious and airy ride in good weather. And the insulation from the elements when the weather turns nasty is excellent.

Problems?

The middling to low fuel economy will be an issue for many consumers. There also have been complaints that the interior lighting is a bit too soft. There is a bit too much hard plastic inside, too.

But the terrific off-road ability of the Liberty, the cool styling and the improved ride make this new Liberty a winner in my book.