By Edward A. Sanchez
Adding yet another model to its burgeoning lineup, Jeep introduced the 2006 Commander at the 2005 New York Auto Show. It is the first Jeep to offer seven-passenger seating, and in many ways, the spiritual successor to the full-size FSJ Grand Wagoneer, last seen in the 1991 model year.
Bucking the trend of the somewhat rounded lines of the Liberty and the newest Grand Cherokee, the Commander is proudly angular, bearing a strong resemblance to the compact 1984-2001 Cherokee. Though it shares its 109.5-inch wheelbase and most of its underpinnings with the Grand Cherokee, its upright body gives it an edge in cargo and passenger room, even though it is only two inches longer than its smaller stablemate.
Powertrain and driveline options likewise mirror the offerings of the Grand Cherokee, with a standard 3.7L SOHC V-6, 4.7L SOHC V-8, and the 5.7L Hemi V-8 with MDS cylinder deactivation.
The Commander is the first Chrysler Group vehicle to feature electronic roll mitigation. Receiving signals from multiple sensors, the system deploys the air bags in certain rollover scenarios, as well as side impact events. Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is standard on the Commander, along with Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) and an All-Speed Traction Control System (TCS). A tire pressure monitoring system, parking assist, hands-free communications, navigation system, SmartBeam headlamps, and rain-sensing wipers provide are optional.