Starting work on this SUV, concern Jeep suggested to name the new Grand Wagoneer. Tests car passed under the code name YK. However, he subsequently received the majestic name Commander. His debut took place in April 2005 at the New York Auto Show. The car is designed to strengthen and expand the existing range of Jeep, consisting of Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The creators awarded Commander with a unique, recognizable look and high technical characteristics.
It is designed on the platform of the new Grand Cherokee, respectively, the basic design of the models is similar - the Uniframe body (bearing with an integrated frame), an independent two-lever front suspension and a hard five-link rear axle. Working on the exterior, the designers have not forgotten about the unshakable traditions of the Jeep brand. As befits a car with “army” roots, Commander got straight lines, chopped forms and flat, almost vertical body surfaces.
Even the body mirrors side view made massive and "square". Commander looks at the same time new and familiar. The front view will immediately recognize the approaching Jeep. The headlights still look firm as well, and a strict grille with seven slots has long been a family feature of the legendary brand. Interesting car looks and rear. Many details merge into one picture, which can be called new for Jeep cars. Chrome-plated nameplates, plastic rivets on the tailgate vents, roof rails extending forward along the roof - all this is successfully combined, creating a new image for the new model.
The SUV looks massive and monumental, but it weighs 2361 kg. Commander is unique in that he is seven-seater. Due to the almost vertical windshield and the increased height of the body, it was possible to place three rows of seats in the cabin, and they are located in the amphitheater, that is, the third-row passengers, who have an excellent overview, are sitting above them. For greater convenience of landing on the second and third rows of seats, the roof is made with a ledge. All passenger seats are comfortable and provide good lateral support.
The interior is rather discreet. Simple but functional deflectors are surrounded by the main find of designers - decorative rivets in the amount of 16 pieces. They surround the new emblem “Jeep”. The dashboard is as simple and functional as everything else around it.
For a visual increase in the interior space, designers generously awarded Commander with three hatches at once. The largest of them is located above the front seats. A pair of small - above the rear seats. Roomy SUV is able to take on board not only seven people, but also a lot of bags, suitcases and boxes. After a brief manipulation of the seats for the rear passengers, you can get an impressive amount of usable space.
The length of the car is 4787 mm, width - 1900 mm, and the floor after the transformation of the seats is completely flat - all this makes it possible to get a volume of 1950 liters. But the amount of luggage in the standard layout of the cabin is not impressive - only 170 liters. As the main driving force, there are three engines to choose from - 3.7 L V6 12V (210 hp), 4.7 L V8 16V (230 hp) and the top engine of the North American department DCX 5.7 L V8 16V Hemi (326 hp).
The choice of transmission options with permanent four-wheel drive is similar to the Grand Cherokee - two versions of the Quadra-Drive with and without a dual-mode (NV245) and without (NV140), as well as the Quadra-DriveII with electronically controlled ELSD limited-slip differentials. Modifications: Standart 4x2, Laredo 4x4 and Limited 4x4. The equipment includes ABS, full electric, several audio options, separate climate control. The basic version also received 17-inch wheels, parking sensors and Keyless Entry salon contactless access system.
