Overview & Reviews

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 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 and poor fuel mileage with the larger engines.

Current Jeep Commander

The three-row Jeep Commander is available in two trims: Sport and Limited. The Sport comes standard with power accessories, a power driver seat, air-conditioning and a CD stereo. The 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. 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, a barely adequate engine in the 4,800-pound Commander. The 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, which 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. (The Limited is a bit nicer.) 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 is 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 minuscule for a midsize sport-ute.

In reviews, we've praised the Jeep Commander for its off-road capabilities and powerful available V8. 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. The base V6 doesn't hustle the Commander with much authority. The 5.7-liter V8 is both powerful and relatively fuel-efficient.

Used Jeep Commander Models

The Jeep Commander debuted in the 2006 model year. The Limited came with a 4.7-liter V8 prior to 2010; it generated 235 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque until 2008, when it was bumped up to 305 hp and 334 lb-ft. The 5.7-liter V8 made 330 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque till '09, when it went up to 357 hp and 389 lb-ft.

For '07, the luxurious Overland trim debuted; it was equipped similarly to the Limited but with special interior and exterior trim. For '08, the Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist electronic driving aids arrived for Commanders with Quadra-Drive II. The Commander Limited and Overland's interior materials quality were improved for '09. For '10, the Overland trim disappeared, and the 4.7-liter V8 was discontinued, leaving the powerful 5.7-liter V8 as standard on the Limited models, along with a power liftgate.

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.

User Reviews:

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  08 commander - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By l greaves - December 24 - 2:00 am

  Great SUV for Canadian climate. Fuel mileage not bad for a heavy 4.7 v8. Problems with rear diff bearings, front diff failed at 40,000 km had to be replaced. Wife loves this SUV (our 2nd Jeep) will probably purchase extended warranty to ensure Peace of mind over the long run

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  Leaking Sun Roof - 2007 Jeep Commander
  By Tyrone Jefferson - December 21 - 1:39 pm

  I bought my 2007 used in 2012 with 80,000 miles. Since then it now has 155,000 miles it is relaible as longs as you keep up with maintance. My issue is with the sun roof. It leaks into the hand rails. I have taken it back to the dealer. They have cleaned but it is a continuous concern because we live in Florida and we have bad rain storms in the summer. I have to pay extra for a permenent fix. I think Jeep should have a recall for this. It is a design flaw. I am also having trouble with the right turning signal. It turns on and off on its own. I am not sure if this is because of the leaking sun roof.Also the drivers lock motor is making a loud noise and only unlocks with the key

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  2006 65th anniversary model - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By ol snowtires - December 19 - 8:40 pm

  Great Jeep. I have a little over 26,000 miles on it. It came with a 6cd changer that plays mp3s. Stereo system sounds great. 3rd row seating is a little small, probably best suited for kids. Be aware that the maintenance services are expensive. That comes with any 4wd system I suppose. Never had it stall on me, however, it felt like it wanted to a few times. Had to replace the windshield because a rock hit it. The windshield is very upright. I drove it from Pennsylvania to El Paso, TX with zero problems. Gas mileage could be better. With everything considered, I am very happy with the purchase. Great ride, roomy, and looks good. Would recommend to others.

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  Looks Good - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By KH 730 - November 29 - 6:23 pm

  We purchased our 2006 Commander used with only 5,000 miles on it. The car is great looking with an awesome interior design. The sound system is pretty good and the comfort of the car is out of this world. This car handles extremely well in snow. The car is solid & feels very safe. Driving is fun if you can look past the awful gas mileage, this car is a guzzler. We get about 12.5 mpg city and about 18 highway, not the best. The car stalled a few times but we arent sure what caused it. During the extremely cold winter the car would cough when started (not garaged). The passenger side window is possessed but I guess its a known computer error that hasnt been figured out yet.

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  My Red 4.7 L Commander is top notch - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Jonathan - November 18 - 4:53 am

  I love it. Looked long and hard for a safe vehicle, 4x4 with 5 star crash ratings. Best ride, quality, look and you cant beat the price. The 5 speed is wonderful. I did splurge for the 7yr/100,000 mile warranty via Chrysler. As big as a Durango, a whole lot safer! The 4.7 v8 has enough pick up and pull also.

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  My Jeep Experience - 2007 Jeep Commander
  By ptlongtime70 - November 14 - 12:26 pm

  Ive owned my Jeep Commander for a little over 6 months now and absolutely love it. Rides so smooth even over rough terrain and poor roads. Sound proofing is great and love all the amenities that came with it. Stereo is awesome for being factory, Boston Acoustic package imaging is first class with adequate power. Anti-roll stability electronics has actually help correct the vehicle one time when I approached an off ramp a lil bit too fast and started to lose control. Vehicle corrected itself with appropriate deceleration and braking of proper wheels. I was thoroughly impressed. However sometimes when entering and exiting certain bumpy rotarys I have had same electronics make vehicle stumble.

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  A Good Start - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By scla - October 15 - 8:36 pm

  Traded a Lexus LX470 for Commander Limited with 5.7 Hemi. Have been on two road trips totaling over 2000 miles. Has performed without a flaw. Ride is better than Lexus. Appointments are inferior especially the navigation system. Commander has blind spots on both sides when driving. Rear seat positioning is unique and comfortable especially for taller people. The Commander in black with chrome wheels is an eye catcher. Have had no negative comments except most think it is a new Hummer H3. I suggest getting the Hemi for both performance and fuel economy. You will feel the shift between four to eight cylinders on highway driving but it is minimal.

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  A Jeep that will command a a second look - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By Marlowe Achanzar - October 15 - 6:16 pm

  This Jeep Commander Sports 4 x 4 3.7 engine is really a fun SUV to drive. Comfortable enough on a bumpy road and never could you hear any squeaking or rattle after a 3400 mileage accumulation. One problem is the backrest, it is too high for women with a height of 5-1/2 feet like my wife. The headrest is tilted downwards at its maximum down level and very uncomfortable for her. Fuel consumption is 17 miles a gallon, a gas guzzler ha? Thank God gas is now $1.87/ gal. here in Chicago. No leaks or water accumulation on the doors as noted by previous 2007 Owners. The 3.7 6 cylinder is good enough for the size of the body. Third row seat? Thats a plus for an outdoor sportsman like me.

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  New Jeep Commander - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By the rogers - October 14 - 2:16 am

  So far we love this vehicle. Its the limited 5.7l with the Hemi. This thing will move! Very luxurious inside and out.

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  Acceleration problems - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By - October 9 - 6:12 pm

  Love my Commander...got it new in 2008. This morning I got the scare of my life. Started the vehicle, drove to the back of the house, to picked up my utility trailer. As I was leaving the drive way, the accelerator got jammed. The vehicle went out of control (live on dirt road) and raced full speed ahead. First reaction was to hit the brakes... that helped a little, quickly put it in neutral and turn the key off. Got my conposure, and started the vehicle again. It went right back to a very, very fast acceleration. Turn it off and called dealership to have it tow to be serviced. Has anyone ever had this kind of problem ???