The Jeep Commander was a unique mid-size Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) designed to deliver both impressive off-road performance and comfortable transportation for families, setting it apart in Jeep’s lineup with its blend of classic Jeep styling and modern features – let’s explore what made this vehicle so interesting.
A Brief History of the Commander
Manufactured by the Jeep division of Chrysler, the Jeep Commander was built in Toledo, Ohio, from 2005 to 2010, effectively replacing the Jeep Liberty in the Jeep family of vehicles.
Seating and Design
With a capacity of up to seven passengers, the Jeep Commander’s robust appearance evoked a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of earlier Jeep models, and its design, heavily influenced by the Jeep Cherokee, resulted in a distinct, boxy shape and the iconic seven-slot grille.
Exterior
The Commander’s tall windshield, straight sides, and stepped roof, coupled with a practical roof rack for additional cargo, contributed to its unique silhouette, while the elevated hood, prominent wheel arches, and bold lines conveyed a sense of capability and readiness for adventure.
Interior
Offering a more spacious interior than its predecessor, the Cherokee, the Commander provided ample room for passengers and cargo alike, with the added convenience of folding rear seats that created a flat loading space.
Comfort and Convenience Inside
The stepped roof design translated to increased headroom for rear passengers, and the availability of cloth, leather, or even premium perforated leather upholstery, along with refined touches like wood-grain and a leather-wrapped center console, enhanced the overall sense of comfort.
Staying Cool and in Control
Standard air conditioning ensured a comfortable cabin temperature, with the option to upgrade to a more sophisticated dual-zone automatic climate control system, while power locks and windows, along with steering-wheel-mounted cruise control, came standard for added convenience.
Power Seats and Entertainment
The driver enjoyed an eight-way power-adjustable seat, and an optional four-way power-adjustable passenger seat was also available, while entertainment options included a rear-seat TV screen, satellite TV, and a navigation system for added convenience and enjoyment on the road.
Power and Performance
The Jeep Commander boasted a selection of engine options, including a 3.7-liter V6 engine capable of producing 210 horsepower and a 4.7-liter V8 engine offered in two variations, producing either 235 horsepower or a more robust 305 horsepower.
Transmission and Four-Wheel Drive
These powerful engines were paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, and the Commander featured a full-time four-wheel drive system, ensuring power was consistently distributed to all four wheels for optimal traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Safety First
Equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags, the Commander prioritized passenger safety, with additional options such as a rearview camera, parking sensors, and a blind spot monitoring system available for enhanced protection.
Off-Road Ready
Designed for more than just paved roads, the Commander possessed high ground clearance, protective skid plates, and a crucial transfer case that facilitated switching between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, underscoring its off-road capabilities.
Comparing to Competitors
Facing competition from rivals like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer, the Commander held its own in the mid-size SUV market, offering a comparable combination of spaciousness, off-road prowess, and comfortable driving experience.
Differences Within the Jeep Family
The Jeep Grand Commander, a larger SUV introduced in 2018, boasts increased seating capacity, more cargo space, and a more contemporary design both inside and out, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee, positioned as a luxury SUV, offers a more refined driving experience and a more upscale interior.
The Commander’s Legacy: A Blend of Capabilities
Despite being discontinued, the Jeep Commander maintains a distinct place in Jeep’s lineage, embodying the brand’s renowned ruggedness while providing ample space for families and their belongings, and its influence on Jeep’s design philosophy is still evident today.
2010 Jeep Commander: A Year of Updates
The 2010 Jeep Commander marked a significant evolution, featuring a new engine option, a redesigned interior, and enhanced fuel economy, with the 3.7-liter V6 engine in the 2010 model delivering 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque.
Redesigned Interior
The interior of the 2010 Commander underwent a transformation, incorporating new materials, a revised dashboard, and a more intuitive layout, while the introduction of a new five-speed automatic transmission contributed to improved fuel efficiency.
Who is the Jeep Commander For?
The Jeep Commander catered to individuals and families seeking a comfortable ride, generous cargo space, and powerful engine options, and its off-road capabilities made it an excellent choice for those who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Fuel Economy and Cost Considerations
While the Commander excelled off-road, its fuel economy wasn’t its strongest point, with EPA estimates ranging around 15 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the highway, depending on the specific engine configuration.
Pricing: New vs. Used
As the Jeep Commander is no longer in production, purchasing a new one is not possible; however, a used 2010 Jeep Commander can be found in the price range of $7,000 to $12,000, with the final cost influenced by factors such as condition and mileage.
Concept Car: A Glimpse into the Future
Prior to the production model, a concept version of the Jeep Commander was showcased at auto shows in 1999, featuring innovative elements like a fuel cell, a specialized battery pack, and a suspension system capable of being raised.
Production Model Debut
The production-ready Jeep Commander made its debut at the 2005 New York Auto Show, boasting a design that was intentionally two inches longer than the Jeep Grand Cherokee and sharing the same assembly line.
Shared Platform
The Commander leveraged the successful platform of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, incorporating its robust unibody construction, front suspension, and rear axle, contributing to its overall capability and reliability as an SUV.
Optional Features
The production Commander offered a wide array of optional features designed to enhance comfort and convenience, including automatic wipers, a premium sound system, hands-free calling functionality, dual-zone climate control, and even heated seats for added luxury.
Sunroofs and Entertainment
A sunroof package provided the option of a power front sunroof and two smaller sunroofs over the second-row seats, while an entertainment package included a DVD player, a 9-inch TV screen, and a backup camera for added enjoyment on long journeys.
Four-Wheel Drive Systems
The Commander offered a choice of three distinct four-wheel drive systems, allowing drivers to select the system best suited to their needs, and this, combined with its generous ground clearance, solidified its reputation as a true off-road performer.
Engine Choices
The Commander’s engine options included a 3.7-liter V6 engine capable of generating 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque and a 4.7-liter V8 engine with varying power outputs depending on the year and specific configuration.
Technology Not Featured
While the concept Commander explored the potential of fuel cell technology, the production version did not incorporate it, nor was it a hybrid vehicle, and it did not utilize the specialized battery pack featured in the concept car.
Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive
The Commander’s full-time four-wheel drive system continuously delivered power to all four wheels, resulting in exceptional grip and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces, ensuring confident handling in diverse conditions.
Strength and Rigidity
The Commander employed unibody construction, integrating the body and frame into a single unit, enhancing its overall strength and rigidity compared to traditional body-on-frame vehicles.
Suspension
The Commander’s sophisticated suspension system, featuring short/long arm front suspension and a 5-link live rear axle, was engineered to provide both a comfortable ride on paved roads and exceptional performance when venturing off-road.
Protection for the Undercarriage
Skid plates, acting as protective armor for the underside of the vehicle, shielded vital components from potential damage when traversing rocky or uneven terrain.
Switching Between Driving Modes
The transfer case enabled drivers to seamlessly switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, allowing for optimal performance in various driving scenarios.
Ground Clearance and Angles
The Commander boasted ample ground clearance, approach angle, departure angle, and breakover angle, all crucial metrics that determined its ability to navigate off-road obstacles effectively.
Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist
Hill descent control assisted the Commander in maintaining a controlled and safe speed when descending steep inclines, while hill start assist prevented rollback when starting on an uphill slope.
A Capable and Versatile SUV
The Jeep Commander distinguished itself as a capable and versatile mid-size SUV, offering a harmonious blend of rugged aesthetics, a spacious interior, and impressive off-road capabilities, and while it may no longer be in production, it remains a sought-after choice for those seeking a dependable and adventure-ready vehicle.