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:

• 

  Better Fuel Mileage PLEASE - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By fdkenny - January 9 - 10:00 pm

  Unique atyling. Outstanding ride for an SUV. Big and roomy for my three children. Performance is good for the 6 cylinder. This Jeep definitely is a head turner. But fuel mileage is HORRIBLE-16 MPG on the road and 14 around town. My 2000 4Runner got 20 MPG consistently.

• 

  Early on assessment - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Carlos Kelly - January 4 - 8:13 am

  Leased one of first delivered. So far, very satisfied. Ride is great, interior is simple, but still elegant. Have family, and the back row is as great as we had hoped for two kids. Was very very surprised that this vehicle was priced a little under the Cherokee.

• 

  Nice ride for a change of style - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By tony g - December 26 - 10:40 am

  I got tired of all the look alike cars out there, with all the curves and bumps. Now this one stands out and is a better choice for a guy with a family than a minivan. The price is under a Grand Cherokee which is nice. I like the smooth ride and the tight turn radius, I dont like the gas mileage, but this car is bigger and heavier than my last one, the oh so feminine Jeep Liberty. I also like the fact that the third row is there if needed, and that there are lots of standard features like rear sensor and side curtain bags. Makes a lot of difference in terms of safety. I have had it now for a month, and we like it a lot.

• 

  This is it if you have to have an SUV - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Heil - December 21 - 12:06 pm

  My wife picked this one out. While I was reluctant at first, I must say it is a whole lot of fun to drive around in. While some say the interior may not be up to the BMW, X30, or Rover quality, you have to remember, *this is a JEEP*. It isnt meant to simply ford the pothole at the golf club. Its made to actually leave the pavement, and shes responded nicely to some rough roads. Storage is great unless you have all three rows of seats up (which we never do, but its good to know theyre there in case of emergencies). The 4WD system is incredible. Ive had 4WDs before, but how easily it handles slippery roads is really amazing.

• 

  Bought Used, Love It - 2009 Jeep Commander
  By jer - December 17 - 10:23 pm

  Bought this used and love it. Runs great, looks rugged, the gas mileage is a draw back. Have had a couple of small interior things that needed to be replaced, but overall nice interior design. The third row seating is nice, but not a lot of room back there, especially for a tall person. Had a Grand Cherokee before, bought this Commander and I love it. It is fantastic in the snow as well.

• 

  Commanding Review - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Commander Mom - December 15 - 12:20 pm

  I could not be more excited about a car! This is more than any soccer mom could want. I love my new Jeep. We have three kids, and we all fit perfectly. The kids love the back seat. We have the Limited with the HEMI and there is a huge difference between that and a regular 4.7L. I loved it from the minute I drove it. Plenty of power for a mom on the go and always in a hurry. The DVD and wireless headphones are great, not to mention the SIRIUS radio ready, and great sound system. The leather is great, the roominess is great, I love the chrome on black. Its one sharp ride.

• 

  Lovin my XK! - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By GeoDan - December 11 - 10:53 pm

  Real off-road capability in a world of "soft-roaders." This vehicle benefits greatly from Jeeps involvement with Daimler and as a result its an interesting mix of American and German input. Fuel mileage isnt great overall, but I am consistently observing higher than EPA ratings, particularly at highway cruising speeds.

• 

  Jeep Commander - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Les - December 9 - 11:30 pm

  Nice SUV. Loves to eat gas however, but great highway drive and super in winter or sloppy conditions.

• 

  Command The Road in Style - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Paiz - November 27 - 7:40 am

  After owning two Grand Cherokees, and a Cherokee Classic in the past, the new 2006 Jeep Commander is by far the most exciting to drive, and to look at. Even with sub par fuel economy, the Commander drives and feels like a dream. I strongly recommend getting the Hemi 5.7L V8, as it actually gets better gas mileage than the 4.7L V8 because of the MDS Engine Technology. Strongly recommended!

• 

  Learning to love your vehicle - 2007 Jeep Commander
  By 3sa - November 25 - 5:20 pm

  I traded my Chrysler Pacifica for the Commander. I loved the way it drove and handled and was looking to only upgrade. Once I drove the Commander it was surprisingly pleasant and I liked the sporty look. People often mistaken my "P" for a van which I hated. What I dont like is the 3rd row seat (for kids or small adults but ok), it blocks visibility when head rests are up, passenger seat sits to low, very hard to see stop light when stopped, rain collects at driver door, need better cup holders in 2nd row, and air vents make noise when opening to defrost. Gas mileage could be better. Thank God I live 5-10 miles from work and my daughters school. I miss the "P" but beginning to love my "C"!