In Search Of The Authentic: The 2007 Jeep Commander
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. Prior to building the 2007 Commander, the strategists at Jeep/Chrysler researched the brand’s heritage. The results suggested loyal Jeep customers were enthusiasts who held onto their traditional, boxy Wagoneer and Cherokees models with the seven slot grill an average of thirteen years. The vintage look favored by the enthusiasts was in sharp contrast to the plastic exterior of more recent Jeep designs. 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 Commander to address the need for an authentic Jeep.
To span the great distances in the beautiful American countryside requires a well-appointed cabin. When you step inside the 2007 Jeep Commander, you’ll find yourself in the roomiest interior ever seen in any Jeep. The three-row stadium seating is capable of accommodating seven people. 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 2007 Jeep Commander is the engine. The most popular is the fuel efficient 3.7-liter V6 210 horsepower engine that averages 16 mpg city, 20 mpg highway. The 4.7-liter V8 generates 235 horsepower at 305 lbs./ft. of torque averages 15 mpg city, 19 mpg highway; and the 5.7-liter 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(TM) for greater fuel economy. The Hemi de-activates four of the eight cylinders at 40-60 mph to increase fuel efficiency.
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 its fit and finish. The steering feels more responsive and precise. Step on the throttle, 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 2007 Jeep 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.