2007 Jeep Commander Road Test Review
One of the many promises of the American dream is the freedom to explore its vast open spaces. To accommodate this task, the 2007 Jeep Commander has been engineered to capture the authentic feel of the traditional Jeep.
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Prior to building the 2007 Commander, the strategists at Jeep researched brand heritage. Results suggested that loyal Jeep customers were enthusiasts who held onto their traditional, boxy Wagoneer and Cherokee models with the seven slot grill an average of 13 years.
The vintage look favored by the enthusiasts was in sharp contrast to the plastic exterior of more recent Jeep designs like the new Compass. Consequently, the sheet-metal shape for the 2007 Commander is inspired by Willys-Overland, the Wagoneer, and the Cherokee; elements from all three can be found on the new SUV, addressing the need for a truly authentic Jeep.
Spanning great distances in the beautiful American countryside requires a well-appointed cabin. When you step inside the '07 Commander, you’ll find yourself in the roomiest interior ever seen in a Jeep. The three-row stadium seating is capable of accommodating seven. The two front seats are exceptional with ample creature comforts and supple support for long drives. The step-up roof design makes the second and third row seats appear more spacious due to the higher ceiling and improved lighting.
The inner cabin features dual skylights ensuring a wide open view for all passengers. The third row seats are good for young children and pets, as there is not much room for full-sized adults. The magnified interior is in sharp contrast to the compact exterior making it easier to park, drive or maneuver the Commander in tight corners of urban sprawl, or drive on the open road of the vast countryside in sheer comfort.
The heart of the Commander is the engine. Most popular is the fuel efficient 3.7L V6 210 horsepower engine that averages 16 mpg city, 20 mpg highway. The 4.7L V8 generates 235 horsepower at 305 lbs./ft. of torque averages 15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway; and the 5.7L Hemi V8 ponies up best in class 330 horsepower at 375 lbs./ft. of torque, enabling you to overtake and merge with greater ease. The V8 Hemi’s towing capacity is also best in class at 7,200 pounds, and also features the Multi-Displacement System for greater fuel economy, de-activating four of the eight cylinders at 40-60 mph to increase fuel efficiency.
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Compared to other SUVs in its class, the 2007 Jeep Commander feels nimble in day-to-day city driving. In comparison to the new Ford Explorer, the 2007 Jeep Commander feels more connected to the road, more refined in fit and finish. The steering feels more responsive and precise. Step on the throttle and the response is immediate. There’s always plenty of torque available at a lower rpm, and on the highway, the ride is smooth and quiet. The combination of the classic exterior styling, uncompromising driving position, and the distinctive eye catching interior cabin puts the 2007 Jeep Commander ahead of the Ford Explorer.
Historically, the Commander can be traced back to the Willys-Overland Jeepster, the first SUV of its kind, sold to civilians in 1948. It had two doors and could accommodate up to five passengers. The 2007 Commander retains true Jeep heritage by offering authentic exterior styling, a well-appointed cabin and a number of safety innovations as standard equipment. The availability of the hybrid engine would make this an even better vehicle. As such, the MSRP of $27,985 – $38,900 for the 2007 Jeep Commander provides good value for families who need an authentic SUV for cross-country driving.
| 2007 Jeep Commander |
Description: |
Sport Utility Vehicle |
Model options: |
Commander Sport
Commander Limited
Commander Overland
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Engine size: |
Sport: 3.7L V6
Limited:4.7 V8
Overland: 5.7 V8
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Transmission: |
Automatic
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Wheelbase: |
109.5 inches
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Overall Length: |
188.5 inches |
Rear/Front Drive: |
FWD, AWD Optional |
Air bags: |
2 (front multi-stage)
4 (side curtain)
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MSRP: |
$26,110 to $42,170
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