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:

• 

  Commander is Good Value for Big SUV - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Chris T - April 30 - 4:10 am

  I bought this Commander new in September of 2006. I have not had any maint. issues, and the vehicle is very quiet and fun to drive. Towing capacity is great with the 4.7 V8. I have noticed many reviews complain of fuel mileage, but this in no surprise. It produces exactly what it is rated, about 16 around town and 20 to 21 on the highway. Vehicle is very versatile, and is definitely worth a look in this size SUV. I think one would be very surprised to take this vehicle for a spin.

• 

  Jeep you dont want to buy - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By acerjeep - April 16 - 4:40 am

  I Bought this Jeep Dec. 12, 2006. I drove it 785 miles and the engine overheated, so I took it to the dealer and they stated it was a small crack in the bypass hose which was leaking. I had an overheat problem again about 2 weeks later. I returned to the dealer, they stated I drove it too hard (which is NOT true). They rebuilt the engine and now I only get 12 miles to the gallon. I went to the dealer to complain they said it was due to the overheat. As for the water coming in after a rain, I am so angry that the Chrysler Company will NOT do anything to remedy this. This SUV is not a good deal at all.

• 

  Another Great Jeep - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By dylanc - April 15 - 11:10 pm

  I recently purchased my 2006 Jeep Commander Limited 4.7L 4x4 and love it. In addition to the Commander I have a 97 Cherokee with 230k miles! I bought the Commander with 90k, about to hit 100k. I have had primarily good luck with it. I chose the 4.7 because it is one of Jeeps fantastic motors. I would not recommend the 3.7L. Things to look out for: door handles crack and can fall into door panels (Chrysler plastics). The starter will go out, so you have to expect that. I replaced the sway bar bushings because they were starting to make noice, but it wasnt a required repair. I have been told that he 4.7Ls will last forever, if you keep up with oil changes. I love the 4x4 too!

• 

  Great fun to drive Jeep. - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Alex - April 7 - 3:43 pm

  I got 5.7 Hemi. Great driving experience. Permanent 4X4 + rack and pinion steering + relatively firm suspension make handling just great . I used to have Yukon Denali 2001. If it goes over 85 you have to grip the wheel. This one, I tried even 110 mph. Rides smooth!!!. Breaks are also good. Perfectly drives on snow. Of course you have to watch for a body roll. But, hey, it is SUV not a Corvette. Had Ford Expedition 1997 and Yukon Denali 2001, this rides the best. With my medium heavy foot I still get 15.9 on highway. City is around 15. My wife with her not so heavy foot can get 17.5 on the highway. Seats are very comfortable.

• 

  Thank God for my Jeep - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Grandma - April 3 - 12:10 am

  My 17-year old Grandson rolled my Jeep Commander last night and was not hurt. It is totaled because of bent frame but he and friend in it were safe.

• 

  Love our commanders but lots of problems! - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By niokal1 - March 22 - 8:23 pm

  I own a 2008 commander and my husband owns a 2006, we are both having a lot of the same issues. Both had to replace starter, Brakes, Wheel bearings, and my radio and passenger side window only works half the time. Did I mention that they both leak water on to the front floor boards. We have always been Jeep enthusiast but not we are starting to question the love of Jeeps verses the bullshit design and flaws that have come with these new models. Come on Chrysler quit trying to cut on quality we pay the price

• 

  This thing can Tow! - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Dave/Gillette, Wy - March 5 - 12:46 pm

  I was on my way home from a wedding on 07/08/06. About 10 miles from town (Gillette, WY), there was a 23 foot motor home that had run out of gas along side I-90 that was towing a full size, extended cab Chevy truck on a vehicle dolly. I didnt have enough room for a passenger and needed to get home. I hooked up a tow rope and hauled the motor home and truck to town. I didnt drive any faster than 40mph for safety reasons. I pulled up to the gas station towing that 23 foot camper and full size Chevy truck. I unhooked the tow rope. The guy shook my hand and offered to give me some money for my troubles. I told him that all I wanted was a hand shake and a Christmas card.

• 

  drives like butter - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By much mail - February 21 - 6:10 am

  I test drove this on a fluke. Went to try out Patriot as price was more in my range. I drove the Wrangler Unlimited, too rough. Then I got in this Commander and I could NOT stop thinking about it. It has a great vintage box shape and great design. Interior is nice, sturdy, simple, not tons of nasty plastic. I tried the FJ Cruiser, as it got good reviews and it managed the road, ice, snow and rain well. But it rode like the Wrangler. Rough and sophomoric and unsophisticated. Could not be happier with the Commander. It has managed brilliantly in the worst winter weather yet in CT. I feel SAFE in it. I got mine at a great discount as it was a 2006. LOVE IT.

• 

  Love my 2007 commander - 2007 Jeep Commander
  By Sher - February 11 - 2:54 am

  I love this car except that this particular one is missing some of the bells and whistles like push button start and navigation system. I wish Jeep was still making them. Just not a fan of the new SUV styles out there. Thank goodness I dont have to get a new car because cant find anything I like. The only bummer is the gas mileage but thats what happens with a boxy vehicle

• 

  Love My Overland - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By BillF - February 2 - 6:16 pm

  I traded my 2006 Commander Ltd (HEMI) in for the 2008 Overland HEMI. It has all the bells and whistles so I dont see myself trading it in after 2 years like I always do. Got it with backseat TV. Ive driven from NY to VA twice since August. I find that the gas mileage is close to the 4.0 and 4.7 engines that Ive previously owned (Grand Cherokee). I arrive at the Maryland House (I95) with an 1/8 of a tank. Driving in the city and Long Island I do use more gas. Im comfortable while driving. The only problem I had was an inefficient catalytic converter which my dealer replaced and no problems since.