2008 Jeep Commander [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 55 Commander reviews and test drives.
Jeep Commander - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Jeep Commander ranks 9 out of 10 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 55 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Commander, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Commander delivers solid off road performance, but can't match the on-road capabilities and gas mileage of others in its class.
The 2008 Jeep Commander is a niche vehicle for people who like to go off-road and need a lot of passenger room. Though it has good performance, it's interior is not as comfortable as others in the class. The Commander's starting manufacturer's suggested retail price is close to the starting price for a midsize Jeep Grand Cherokee. Higher trims and added options, however, can quickly increase the price. Also, skyrocketing gas prices have made fuel efficiency a major deciding factor when purchasing a SUV. The 2008 Commander, largely a carryover from the 2007 model year, is available in three trims, the Sport, Limited and Overland, and is available as a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle.
- "The Commander should be attractive to families that need four-wheel-drive capability for vacations, camping, or challenging winters." -- Automotive.com
- "Buy the Commander if you want a full-size, rugged SUV that can tackle off-road terrain but is also decked out with high-end features; you need seating for seven." -- Forbes
- "If your goal is simply to seat seven, buy a minivan." -- Car and Driver
- "We're having a hard time determining who it is intended to appeal to--and whether that group will actually find it appealing. While it is a rugged, well-equipped SUV, the Commander seems to us to be an odd mix. Is it a vehicle for lugging the family around in (a militarized minivan), or is it a rugged mountain machine for a gaggle of guys? By catering to both, we think it fails to sufficiently appeal to either group." -- CNET
The 2008 Commander, largely a carryover from the 2007 model year, is available in three trims, the Sport, Limited and Overland, and is available as a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle.
Commander Performance - 7.8 (Good)
The 2008 Jeep Commander's strong off-road capabilities mean compromises in on-road performance, leading to a low performance ranking within the class. While it lacks the smooth ride and handling of competitors, the Washington Post reports that the Commander is "an exceptionally easy, agreeable, obedient truck to drive." continue
Commander Exterior - 6.7 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Jeep Commander bares a striking resemblance to the original, and now discontinued, Jeep Cherokee, but in a class that tends toward sleeker looks, that translates to a relatively low exterior ranking. continue
Commander Interior - 6.9 (Mediocre)
The interior of the 2008 Jeep Commander is comfortable for most occupants, but not as luxurious or roomy as competitors. The Orlando Sentinel says the "interior is roomy, handsome and well-designed." continue
Commander Safety - NA
The 2008 Jeep Commander offers such standard safety features as anti-lock disc brakes, stability control and front and side curtain air bags. It also fares very well in federal government crash tests. Motor Week notes, "along with front side impact airbags, all outboard bodies are protected by standard head curtain airbags with rollover sensor." continue
Commander Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Jeep Commander reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). All Jeeps purchased after July 26, 2007 receive a lifetime powertrain warranty. In addition, the 2008 Commander receives roadside assistance for the first three years or 36,000 miles and a three-year or unlimited-mile rust warranty. continue