The name Commander calls to mind images of daring swashbucklers on fearless adventures at the far corners of the earth. As such, Jeep's latest SUV is aptly named; it possesses every inch of the go-anywhere bravado implicit in its moniker. With three rows of seating and room for up to seven passengers, the Jeep Commander is the most spacious SUV Jeep has ever produced.
The three-row Jeep Commander is available in two trims: Jeep Commander Sport and Jeep Commander Limited. The Jeep Commander Sport comes standard with power accessories, a power driver seat, air-conditioning and a CD stereo. The Jeep Commander Limited trim honeys the mix with heated leather seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, a power tailgate, satellite radio and a power sunroof with twin skylights in the second row.
The base Jeep Commander Sport gets its pep from a standard 3.7-liter V6 capable of 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. The Jeep Commander Limited model has more punch thanks to a 5.7-liter V8 (optional on Sport), which cranks out 357 hp and 389 lb-ft of torque. Those who choose the base model may equip it with a full-time all-wheel-drive system. Jeep also offers two sophisticated four-wheel-drive systems for those planning to take their Commanders on off-road trails, including Quadra-Drive II.
In reviews, we've praised the Jeep Commander for its off-road capabilities and powerful available V8. Handling on pavement is competent for a nearly 5,000-pound vehicle. The 5.7-liter V8 is both powerful and relatively fuel-efficient.
Slide inside the Jeep Commander's cabin and you'll find yourself enveloped in comfortable seats. An upscale two-tone decor makes for an attractive interior. The SUV offers 7.5 cubic feet with all three rows in use, 36.4 with the third row stowed and 68.9 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.
