Review
Introduction
Launched in mid-2005 as an ’06 model, the Commander came into being for two key reasons: First, Jeep marketing types decided they were losing too many sales to competing SUVs that offered three-row seating, something hitherto absent from this brand’s lineup. Second, a vocal group of Jeep loyalists missed the rectilinear simplicity of the old Jeep Cherokee, a vehicle that helped put SUVs into the American mainstream.
One glance at the Commander tells you the design team nailed the rectilinear part, but the three-row aspect is compromised by dimensions. Essentially a rebodied Grand Cherokee, the Commander’s 109.5-inch wheelbase is the same, and although the Commander has almost a half-foot of additional space overhead, it has only a half-inch of additional length. There’s a good reason for this. Off-road performance is a religion at Jeep, and a long wheelbase with lots of body extending beyond the axles is not the right formula for dirty work. On the other hand, it adds up to a pretty cramped third row.
This biggest of Jeeps hasn’t commanded the kind of sales action its creators had hoped for, so that means there are some good deals for those who like the formula.
Verdict
A two-and-a-half-ton people hauler that hasn’t forgotten it’s still a Jeep, the Commander measures up to the basic Jeep ethos with rugged construction, a choice of two sophisticated four-wheel-drive systems, and three different engines.
Click here to read our latest comparison test involving the Jeep Commander.
What’s New for 2008
The 4.7-liter V-8 engine has been updated with more power (305 horsepower versus 235), more torque, and improved fuel economy, as well as a flex-fuel version capable of operating on E85 ethanol. Jeep holds pace in the infotainment race with its new MyGIG multimedia system option with integrated navigation and available Sirius Backseat TV.
Tilting-and-telescoping steering columns are new and standard on all models. Mechanical upgrades include a 4WD hill-descent control and hill-start assist system (standard on Limited and Overland, optional on the base Sport model), a trailer-sway-control feature, and a rearview camera (standard on Limited and Overland).
