Ah, yes. Finally something the minivan dads of the world can lobby for.
Forget the cup holders. Forget the dual-sliding doors. It’s time for a vehicle that has some heart, soul, guts and gusto — not to mention three rows of seats.
There’s even a powerful name to boot.
It’s called the 2006 Jeep Commander. And, yeah, it does command attention.
With its high stance and boxy exterior, the Commander actually resembles an old-style Jeep Cherokee. Think mid-to-late 1980s Jeep.
With underpinnings borrowed from the Grand Cherokee, Jeep wanted to play off its rugged heritage while incorporating something new.
Too many people were telling Jeep dealers that they loved the product, but couldn’t squeeze enough people into a Grand Cherokee. Two rows these days won’t do.
The Commander is Jeep’s answer.
The three rows mean at least six passengers can tag along for the ride in a vehicle that is longer and taller than any other Jeep on the market.
Available in a base and limited model, there are loads of chrome inside, heated front seats, a six-speaker sound system and power-adjustable pedals (all on the top end model).
It’s Jeep, with a dab of luxury.
On the road, and under the hood, the Commander actually fares very well in the smaller engine package. The entry-level rear-wheel-drive model comes with a 3.7-liter V-6 that produces a very capable 210 horsepower. A five-speed automatic is standard.
There are two more engine choices: A 235-horsepower, 4.7-liter V-8 and, of course, the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that makes 330 horses.
Yes, there are drawbacks, like any first-time vehicle fresh out of the box.
A solid rear axle makes for a sometimes rough and bouncy ride. The front seats were a little uncomfortable and the third row was a bit tight and doesn’t fold into the floor automatically the way the competition does.
At 15 mpg in the city and 20 on the highway (in 4.7-liter versions), fuel economy is a bit of a concern. And price starts to really become an issue in certain models.
But there are interesting things. The skylights over the second row come with shades. The bolts and rough edges over the body make it definitely a Jeep. And, being a Jeep, the Commander comes with one of three full-time four-wheel drive systems.
Yeah, so it’s a Jeep. Yeah, it’s different.
And if soccer dads like it, well, maybe it’s their turn.
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2006 Jeep Commander
Vehicle type: Rear- or all-wheel-drive, front-engine, four-door, six-passenger SUV
Key competition: Ford Explorer, Dodge Durango, Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Base engine: 210-horsepower 3.7-liter V-6
Transmission: Five-speed automatic
Standard safety equipment: Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes; dual front air bags; stability control; traction control
MPG rating: 17 city/21 highway
Manufactured: Detroit.
Warranty: Basic warranty is three years/36,000 miles
Base price: $27,985
Price as tested (including destination and delivery): $29,985
