Jeep Commander Review

2008 Jeep Commander Limited SUV Shown

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 it moniker. With three rows of seating and room for up to seven passengers, the Commander is the most spacious SUV Jeep has ever produced. Although not quite as capable off-road as the smaller Jeeps, among SUVs in its size class the Commander is a superb trail-buster, able to tackle rock-strewn paths and steep mountain tracks without breaking a sweat.

Less thrilling, however, are the Jeep Commander's lackluster interior materials, cramped third row, so-so cargo capacity, poor fuel mileage with the larger engines and a state of suspension tune that some buyers might find to be overly soft on the highway.

Current Jeep Commander

The Jeep Commander debuted in the 2006 model year. Buyers have a choice of three trims. The Commander Sport is decently equipped; amenities include power windows and door locks, a power driver seat, air-conditioning and a sound system equipped with a CD player. The pricier Limited trim honeys the mix significantly with features like heated leather seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, rain-sensing automatic wipers, satellite radio and a power sunroof with twin skylights for those ensconced in the second row. The Commander Overland is similarly equipped but features special interior and exterior trim. Buyers can also snag options like a navigation system and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

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; while this engine is a decent source of motivation in smaller Jeeps, it's barely adequate in the 4,800-pound Commander. The Limited model packs a bit more punch, equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 that generates 235 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. For 2008, the 4.7-liter V8 got a major boost in power and was rated at 305 hp and 334 lb-ft. Those seeking even more oomph can opt for the 5.7-liter V8. Optional on the Limited and standard on the Overland, it's capable of 330 hp and 375 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 that, for 2008, features Hill Start and Descent Assist technology. All models come with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Slide inside the Commander's cabin and you'll find yourself enveloped in comfortable seats. An upscale two-tone decor makes for an attractive interior, but there's too much hard plastic for an SUV in this price range. There aren't any midsize SUVs that offer truly spacious third-row seating; still, even by these low standards, legroom in the Commander's third row falls short and it's suitable only for children. Cargo capacity is unspectacular as well, largely because of the packaging issues created by the Jeep's solid-axle rear suspension and generous ground clearance. 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. These numbers would be OK for a compact SUV, but they're miniscule for a midsize sport-ute.

In editorial reviews, the Jeep Commander has earned praise for its off-road capabilities and powerful engine choices. Opinions about ride quality are mixed; some have found the Jeep to provide a tranquil ride but others, expecting a more secure feel, deem it wallowy. Handling on pavement is competent for a nearly 5,000-pound vehicle, but not the least bit sporting. Speed demons will no doubt crave the muscular 5.7-liter V8, but the smaller 4.7-liter V8 still does a fine job of hustling the Commander with authority.

Consumer ratings praise the sport-ute's classic good looks, roominess and effortless power. However, the Commander does take some hits for its less-than-stellar gas mileage and lack of legroom for third-row passengers.

Reliability was spotty on early-build 2006 models, so consumers looking for used Jeep Commanders would be wise to seek out later-build models or else hold off on a purchase until there's a bit more to choose from on the used market.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.