2006 Jeep Commander

In the land of super-sizing, you can't get by with just small, medium and large. That's basically the business case for Jeep's new Commander. To stay in step with the competition, the pioneering producer of 4x4s adds an "XL" to its lineup for 2006 with the introduction of a new, seven-seat SUV. Commander is two inches longer and almost four inches taller than Grand Cherokee, the former big dog in the Jeep lineup. But, Cherokee's seating stopped after the second row, leaving a product gap now filled by Commander.

Styling

Commander's downright upright shape is a case of form following function. The need to add a third row dictated a longer, taller profile. A stepped roofline kicks up 3.15 inches, starting over the second row. The roof raising is visually hidden by the addition of new, standard roof rack rails. Commander becomes the most angular of all Jeeps, the look is a visual throwback to the former Wagoneer series and the classic Willys station wagons of the '50s.


Good news for back seat drivers! Commander's taller roofline allows stadium style seating. Each row is higher than the one in front of it, allowing all in back to have a good look at what's ahead. Packaged with the optional front sunroof is a set of fixed, glass skylights to provide a shot of sunshine to second row passengers. A rollout shade blocks old Sol if so desired.


Commander's front cabin is "first cabin," in terms of accommodations. Comfortable bucket seats face a two-tone dash, with circular design vents that score well on function and fashion. Controls and switchgear are easy to reach and use. Even the optional navigation system is straightforward in design and operation. Row two seats are split 40/20/40, and seatbacks recline. They're adult-sized, though a snug fit for six footers if like-sized folks are up front.

Seating

The 50/50 third row seats are suitable for kids or for short-term travel for adults. In a max-people mode, there's little room left for cargo, 7.5 cubic feet to be exact. However, the multifold seating makes for a flexible layout inside. Capacity expands to 36.4 cubic feet if both third row seats are folded, and reaches 68.9 cubic feet, with the second row down too. And when they're down, they're really down—the seat design allows for a flat floor for carrying cargo. Liftover height in back is low and the lift gate glass and door can be opened independently, via key fob remote.