2006 Jeep Commander: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Commander joins the Jeep lineup for 2006, borrowing its basic underskin architecture from the Grand Cherokee, but featuring different styling and standard seating for seven vs. Grand Cherokee's five. They share wheelbase and powertrains, but Commander is 2 inches longer overall than Grand Cherokee. Base and Limited models are offered. A 210-hp V6 is standard in the base. A 235-hp 4.7-liter V8 is optional in the base and standard in the Limited. Chrysler's 330-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is a Limited option. It deactivates four cylinders while cruising to save fuel. Commander's sole transmission is a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Models with the V6 and the 4.7 V8 offer a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive. AWD is included with the 5.7 V8. Low-range gearing is standard on AWD Limiteds, available for AWD base models. Limited-slip front and rear differentials are standard with the 5.7 V8, available on 4.7 AWD versions. All Commanders have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and an antiskid system with rollover sensors. Also included are rear obstacle detection and a liftgate with opening glass. Front side airbags and curtain side airbags that cover all seating rows and include rollover deployment are standard. Among options are DVD entertainment, navigation system, rearview camera, and an off-road package.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, Nissan Xterra, and Toyota 4Runner.

New or significantly redesigned models include Hummer H3, Jeep Commander, Pontiac Torrent, and Subaru B9 Tribeca.