Commander of the Plains

Commander of the Plains
Originally uploaded by worksology.

I found this great picutre in Flickr featuring a black Jeep Commander in the Wyoming plains, with the sky as background. Couldn't find a better way to wish this blog's readers a wonderful 2007. Happy new year!

How to Change a Jeep Commander Tail Light

Browsing through the Jeep Commander forum, I saw this helpful thread, well documented with large, detailed pictures, explaining how to change a Jeep Commander tail light. May come in handy some day...

Tech Tags: Jeep Jeep+Commander JeepCommander Jeep+XK

New for 2007: AEV Alloy Wheels

Now, this is a good looking wheel! American Expedition Vehicles, the company that brought us the AEV Jeep Commander is already pre-selling these absolutely stunning 17" alloy wheels for the Jeep Commander (beadlock version shown). These wheels come with specific offset and bolt patterns to fit Jeep vehicles, including the Jeep Commander. Pricing has been anounced at $199 for the non-beadlock version and $269 for the beadlock version. Shipping starts in January 2007. For more details click here or call AEV at (406) 251-2100.

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeepcommander aev aev+conversions jeep+xk

Chrysler Recalls 2007 Model Vehicles

DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group said on Friday, December 22, that it is recalling 62,369 2007 model-year vehicles to reprogram a computer that is related to the brake system.

The vehicles involved in the recall are Chrysler Sebring, Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans, Dodge Caliber hatchback, Dodge Magnum wagon, and Jeep Commander, Jeep Compass, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty, Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Nitro SUVs.

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeepcommander jeep+xk damilerchrysler

Upgrade Your Jeep Commander Headlights

One easy modification that also increases driving safety is to upgrade the stock headlight bulbs. In October 2006, Sylvania unveiled its newest, top of the line product for safer night time driving: the Silverstar ULTRA headlight replacement bulbs. Sylvania claims that it provides up to 25 percent increased down road visibility, increased side road visibility and up to a 20 percent brighter light, compared to standard halogen headlights. They also last up to 30 percent longer. The pure, white light emitted by the SilverStar ULTRA is closer to the color of daylight which helps drivers see better at night. You can read more about this product in this press release.

Silverstar ULTRA headlight replacement bulbs are now available for the Jeep Commander's low beam headlights. The part number is 9006SU/2 (pack of two). You can find them in automotive retailers and mass merchants nationwide.

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeepcommander jeep+xk sylvania silverstar+ultra automotive+lighting automobile+aftermarket

2" Jeep Commander Suspension Lift from Rusty

For those looking for a value-priced, moderate lift to make the Commander look better and fit larger tires there is probably no better alternative than Rusty's Off Road 2" boost kit. Rusty has earned a strong reputation in the off road community and many shops around the country are experienced installing his products. Since this is a moderate lift, installing tires significantly larger than the stock 245/70R17 may present clearance issues when using the stock rims. One option is to get aftermarket rims with different backspacing, and another one is to use the stock rims with spacers. A popular option is 260/70R17 with 1.25" spacers (pictured here):

You can find some good discussions in the Jeep Commander Forum among owners that have installed this kit.

Thanks to Comandoooo for letting us use a picture of his shinny black Commander.

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeepcommander rusty's offroad suspension lifts jeep+xk

Jeep Commander Leasing Questions

If you are planning to lease a Commander, you may want to visit the Jeep Commander: Lease Questions discussion in CarSpace, where a couple of gracious and knowledgeable hosts will answer your leasing questions and tell you if you are getting a good deal or not. This discussion is a great place to share information about dealer incentives, financing options, price calculations, etc., and increase our leverage when negotiating a lease.

There is also a discussion called Prices Paid and Buying Experience for those who want to buy instead of lease. However, this discussion doesn't have as much activity as the leasing discussion, and the most recent posts are kind of old.

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeep+xk leasing carspace

Chrysler Group 5.7-liter HEMI(R) and 3.0-liter V-6 Turbo Diesel Take Two Spots in Ward's 10 Best Engines Awards

This year it is not only the HEMI that has earned a Ward 10 best engine ranking, but also the 3.0L CDR Turbo Diesel that Jeep enthusiasts are eagerly waiting to be available in U.S. Jeep Commanders.

From DaimlerChrysler's press release:

For the fifth year in a row -- and every year since its 2003 re-introduction -- Chrysler Group's famous 5.7-liter HEMI(R) engine has earned a place on Ward's 10 Best Engines list. Joining the HEMI in winning the award is DaimlerChrysler's 3.0-liter V-6 Turbo Diesel, available in the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 achieves power and fuel economy thanks to its Multiple Displacement System (MDS). The HEMI is power-dense, perfectly sized and incorporates sophisticated-yet-straightforward efficiency-enhancing technology to help it stay relevant in a market that is becoming increasingly conscious of fuel economy.

The Mercedes-built 3.0-liter CRD is one of the most advanced power plants available in the marketplace today. It is designed to deliver more torque than many V8 engines, while remaining efficient, with up to 30-percent improved fuel economy without sacrificing performance.

Read DaimlerChrysler's Press Release

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeepcommander hemi crd ward diesel daimlerchrysler jeep+xk

SRT8-Wheeled Stunner

Geng has sent us these pictures of his stunning Jeep Commander Limited, recently equipped with a set of SRT8 wheels.Chrysler's SRT8 wheels are expensive but they sure make the Commander look great (members of the Jeep Commander forum have been raving about them since Geng posted his pictures there). Other than the wheels, Geng's Commander features a 5.7L V8 Hemi engine, navigation and entertaining system, Aluminum door sill guards, a chrome fuel cap and an Euro-style short rubber antenna.

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeep+xk srt8 wheels mopar

It's Snow Time for Tell's Red Commander!

Tell, an active participant in the Jeep Commander Forum has sent us these outstanding pictures of his lifted, red Commander Limited getting busy in the snow. The forum readers really dig the bold looks of this stunner. Tell's Commander features a 4" AEV Superlift, 285/70R17 Goodyear Wrangler MT/R tires on stock wheels, a Mopar tubular grill guard and a Yakima Roadwarrior basket.

Technorati Tags: jeep jeep+commander Superlift Mopar Yakima

Woody Wagoon™ Jeep Commander "Woody" Kit

Woody Wagoon™ has developed a Jeep Commander "woody" kit. This kit recalls the great “wood” Wagoneers of the past that started the whole SUV movement. The timeless design and long history of woodie as the rugged work-horse was forever changed to include luxury appointments and comfort when Jeep introduced the Grand Wagoneer.

The new Commander “Woody” kit projects the same image while being even more exclusive than the original. Simulated “Marine Teak” panels surrounded by raised, quarter round “Santa Rosa Oak” trim produce a true three dimensional effect just like the original vehicles. The combination of high-quality vinyl panels and extruded trim is totally maintenance free. These woody kits can be installed by any repair shop since detailed, photo illustrated instructions are provided.

Woody Wagoon™ is the aftermarket leader in woody kits.

Technorati Tags: Jeep Jeep Commander Woody Woody Wagoon Jeep XK

Jeep Commander November Sales

The Jeep Commander beat the Jeep Grand Cherokee in U.S. sales for the month of November 2006, as reported by DaimlerChrysler. The Commander sold 8,023 units (more than doubling October 2005's sales). Grand Cherokee sales dropped 42% to 7,944 units. But the Jeep group's biggest seller was the newly redesigned Jeep Wrangler, with 8,735 units sold, which received a boost from the new Wrangler Unlimited four door model, now on waiting list as demand has outpaced supply.

Read Press Release

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Hook Up Your iPod to Your Jeep Commander Stereo

Almost everybody uses iPods (or a variation of them) these days. One of the most frequently asked questions is: how can I use my I-Pod in my car stereo? One possibility is to use a simple cassette adaptor that you can get in any electronics store for about $20. Another one, slightly more sophisticated is to use an FM modulator. In fact, Mopar offers an iPod integration kit (for about $140) that sends the audio signal from your iPod to your Jeep Commander's Stereo so that it can be played in a specific FM frequency. Neither the cassette adaptor nor the FM modulator, though, will give you the best audio quality.

Your best bet is to plug your iPod directly to your car stereo. CNET has produced an eight step tutorial, chock-full with detailed instructions, pictures and videos, that will allow you to enjoy your iPod in your car for about $60 in materials and a couple hours of weekend sweat equity.

You can access the full tutorial here. Good luck and enjoy your iPod in your Commander.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, iPod, CNET

JET Performance Module for Jeep Commander

The JET Performance Module for Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep vehicles provides power gains across the entire power band (not just at full throttle). By optimizing point by point air/fuel ratio, ignition advance and various other tuning points the JET Performance Module can provides performance gains of up to 25 horsepower.

Modules are available in two configurations: Stage 1 and Stage 2.

The Stage 1 Module is recommended for stock or mildly modified vehicles. Programming is designed to burn fuel at peak efficiency, increasing mileage while using regular fuel (for performance gains the use of mid-grade or better fuel is recommended).

The Stage 2 Module is recommended when the end goal is increased performance. It features more aggressive programming to make the most horsepower and torque available. Fuel and timing curves are extensively modified for peak performance. Requires use of 91 octane fuel, 180 degree thermostat and free flow exhaust. Also works well with aftermarket intake systems, mass air sensors, TBI spacers, etc.

You can go to the JET's website for FAQs regarding performance, suitability, environmental compliance, etc. In this page you will find the model numbers for the Stage 1 and Stage 2 modules that fit the Jeep Commander's three engines: 3.7L V6, 4.7L V8 and 5.7L V8. And, if you go to this page you will find a write up and pictures by a guy who actually installed and tested one of these modules in his Dodge truck's 4.7L V8.

While so far I haven't been able to find any Jeep Commander owner actually using the modules, there are a couple of Jeep Grand Cherokee owners (4.7L and 5.7L Hemi) in JET's Testimonial Page that apparently are very satisfied with the results. If you are a Jeep Commander owner who has tried the modules, please feel free to add your comments.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Performance Parts, JET Performance Modules

Jeep Commander to the Rescue

Off-Road Adventures magazine and the Placer County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team came together to build the ultimate Jeep Commander rescue vehicle. The idea was to take a stock, Hemi-equipped Commander and turn it into an uncompromising off-road machine. During five months (between July and November 2006) the Commander underwent a significant transformation, as it was lifted, equipped with bigger tires, fitted with performance intake and exhaust kits, and many other serious mods. You can read about the project from beginning to end by following these links:

Part I: Suspension, Wheels and Tires
Part II: Performance Intake and Catback Exhaust
Part III: Bumpers, Rock Sliders and Skid Plates
Part IV: Essential Gear for the Back Country
Part V: Hitting the Trail

We thank Off-Road Adventures magazine for the comprehensive write-up and detailed pitcures of this remarkable project.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Off-Road

Hemi Fuel Saving Tips

The 5.7L V8 Hemi comes standard with the MDS (Multiple Displacement System) feature, seamlessly alternating between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed, and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. This optimizes fuel economy when V-8 power is not required, without sacrificing vehicle performance or capability.

Watch this video to see the MDS at work

Jeep offers the following fuel saving tips for owners of Hemi-powered vehicles:

• Keeping speeds to 65 mph or below — MDS uses four cylinder mode most at these speeds
• Use cruise control — this helps maintain a steady speed, generally allowing the HEMI to run on four cylinders for longer periods
• Accelerate more gradually — the HEMI will provide V-8 power whenever it is requested by the driver
• Use a steady throttle whenever possible — this maximizes four cylinder mode

For more on the MDS and the Hemi engine visit the newly revamped Hemi.com, DaimlerChrysler's official site for the Hemi engine.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Hemi

AEV Iceland Expedition Episode 3 Promo Video

This is a promo version of the third episode of the American Expedition Vehicles expedition to Iceland. In this video you will see primarily the heavily modified AEV Jeep Commander being tested at Big Sky Resort, in Big Sky, Montana. You will also see footage of other AEV Jeeps in Moab, Montana and other locations. Visit http://www.aev-conversions.com for more information on the Expedition, and the vehicles involved.

Jeep Commander Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) are issued by vehicle manufacturers to help automotive technicians diagnose and repair problems reported by consumers and repair shops.

TSBs contain up-to-date factory fixes for difficult to diagnose problems such as rough idles, intermittent stalls, hard starts, and all kinds of "shakes", "rattles" and "clunks". TSBs also describe service procedures that may improve performance, reduce future breakdowns, or show a factory authorized modification for your vehicle.

TSBs are not recalls, though, and you may be expected to pay for their repair if you vehicle is already out of warranty.

Xkjeeps.com has put together a comprehensive Jeep Commander Technical Service Bulletin page where they keep track of every TSB and recall for the Jeep Commander, and have organized all the information (TSB number, date and title) in a neat and easy to access table. Normally consumers have to pay in order to get copies of the actual TSBs, but xkjeeps.com has included links to the pdf version of most of the TSBs for the Commander directly from this table.

Other way to get access to the full text of all the TSBs for your vehicle is to get a subscription with a service called Alldata.com ($24.95/year per car) You will also get illustrated diagnosis and repair procedures, diagnostic charts and trouble codes, component locations and diagrams, factory maintenance schedules and more.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Auto Repair

K&N Air Charger Intake Kit for the 5.7L Hemi

Some time ago, I posted about the K&N performance intake kit for the 4.7L V8. Now, K&N has launched its new AirCharger Intake Kit for Jeep Commanders with the 5.7L V8 Hemi. Here is what K&N has to say:

"K&N Engineering, Inc. has made its first 63 Series AirCharger Intake Kit (63-1549) for the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1L V8, the 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8, the 2006 Jeep Commander 5.7L V8 and the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7L V8. K&N test have shown a horsepower gain of 15.30 at 5046 RPM with the 63-1549 Intake Kit.

K&N’s (63-1549) rotationally molded polyethylene Intake Kit uses a conical shaped High-Flow Chrome Top Air Filter (RF- 1048) that can fit into the engine compartment using factory holes and mounting points.

It takes less than an hour to install this kit and the lifetime K&N Air Filter performs for up to 100,000 miles before service is required depending on driving conditions."

You can follow this discussion thread in Jeepforum.com to read Jeep Commander owners' experiences with this performance intake kit, and to see pictures of it already installed in the Commander's engine bay.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Off-Road, KN

Jeep Commander Photo Gallery at Cardomain

Looking for owners' photo galleries of the Commander I ran across Cardomain's Jeep Commander gallery, where you can find hundreds of Jeep Commander pictures ranked by user ratings. You will find Commanders with both the "street" and the "off-road" looks, all of them representing the pride and joy of their respective owners, like Fernando's "Big Blue" on 22" wheels (pictured above). This gallery is a good place to see some of the mods that can be done to a Commander to make it look and perform even better. Thanks to Cardomain.com, the online community where car enthusiasts can get their own web page to show off their rides!

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Cardomain

Jeep Commander Grill Guard by Mopar

One useful mod for the exterior of the Commander (especially if you plan to take it to the back country) is a good quality grill guard. This tubular OEM grill guard by Mopar is especially designed to fit the contour of your Commander’s front grill and bumper, and will protect your vehicle’s front end from off-road damage. They are made from heavy gauge steel and are powder coated for longer life. I particularly like the tight fit and the clean and understated look of these OEM grill guards.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Mopar

2007 Jeep Commander on 20" EGO Wheels

Surfing the web for information on rims for the Jeep Commander I stumbled upon rozziewheels.com, a Colorado-based wheel specialist and found this picture of a mean looking black 2007 Commander clad with 20" Ego wheels. Go to this page for other pictures of the Commander from different angles. You can also browse through other wheel styles by Ego.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler , Custom Wheels, EGO, Wheels, Aftermarket

Jeep Commander: What's New for 2007

Directly from DaimlerChrysler's press release, these are the new features being offered with the Jeep Commander for 2007:

Two New Models:

• Commander Sport (New name)
• Overland

Exterior:

• Five new colors: Red Rock Crystal, Light Graystone, Steel Blue Metallic, Jeep Green Metallic, Mineral Gray Metallic (pictured above)
• Power liftgate
• Body color matching door handles on Commander Sport
• Overland model includes:
  -Front tow hooks
  -Bodyside moldings with platinum finish
  -Front fascia with platinum finish appliqué
  -Wire lattice grille with platinum finish surround
  -Overland liftgate badge
  -Platinum finish on roof rack side rails
  -Outside mirrors with matching body color
  -Liftgate license brow with platinum finish
  -D-pillar appliqué/handle with platinum finish

Interior:

• Matching interior color cup holders
• Body color door handles — Commander Sport
• Diamond plate pattern console shifter bezel — Commander Sport
• Overland model includes:
  -Leather-wrapped center floor console lid
  -Lower center stack bezel — real wood design
  -Center floor console bezel — real wood design
  -Front door switch bezels — real wood design
  -Leather-wrapped steering wheel with wood inserts
  -Leather-wrapped shifter knob
  -Leather-wrapped door grab handles
  -Seats — suede with Yuma leather two-tone combination with embroidered Overland logo
  -Mopar®-designed “cross-car” cargo net
  -Front and rear Berber floor mats (no third-row mat)

Powertrain /Chassis:

• 4.7-liter V-8 Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) (not available in ME, NY, VT, CT, CA)
• Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) standard on 3.7-liter engine
• Quadra-Trac I® Standard on V-6 4WD
• Quadra-Trac II® Standard on 5.7-liter 4WD (late availability)
• Quadra-Drive II® optional on 5.7-liter engine
• Remote start
• Overland model includes:
  -18-inch platinum-clad aluminum wheels (Jan. ’07)
  -P245/60R18 BSW Goodyear Fortera tires (Jan. ’07)

Safety & Security:

• ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera
• Active turn signals — “Three-blink Lane Change”

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler , Overland

Jeep Commander 2007 Lineup

Jeep has revealed the 2007 Jeep Commander lineup. The most significant development is the addition of the Overland version, featuring platinum-chrome exterior accents and wood, leather and suede interior accents, making the Overland the most luxurious Commander ever.

Complementing the lineup, we have a variation of the 2006 base Commander, now called Sport (pictured above), and the Commander Limited. The Sport version offers the base 3.7 SOHC V6 with the option of a 4.7L SOHC V8. The Commander Limited comes standard with the 4.7L SOHC V8, with the option of the 5.7L Hemi V8. The Commander Overland comes, of course, with the Hemi engine as standard equipment.

For pricing information and features click here.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler , Overland

Impressions on the Jeep Commander 3.0L Turbo Diesel Engine

Unfortunately, the 3.0 CRD diesel engine is not yet available in the U.S. For now, all we can do is read this review in Yahoo!'s UK site praising the features of this remarkable engine:

"The 3. 0-litre CRD diesel powerplant pops up all over the Chrysler, Jeep and Mercedes-Benz ranges and with good reason. Its one of the most impressive diesel engines money can buy. Its 218bhp output is capable of making a Mercedes C-Class feel indecently quick but when tasked with hauling the rather weightier Commander body about, it instead relies on its 510Nm of torque. This is more than even the Commanders range-topping V8 Hemi engine can manage. On the road it equates to a sprint to 60mph in 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 120mph. Economy is very respectable at 30.9mpg and emissions are rated at 284g/km. When it comes to serious off-roading, this is probably the engine to plump for. "

I hope that DaimlerChrysler is seriously considering the possibility of outfitting U.S. Jeep Commanders with this engine soon.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Diesel

Jeep Commander Wheel Locks

At more than $200 a pop, the Commander's 17" Chrome clad wheels are expensive, so it's worth it to protect them by getting a good set of locks. These four chrome plated wheel locks with Mopar exclusive key are a good alternative if you want something that looks good and doesn't effect wheel balance.

Technorati Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Mopar

Jeep Commander Testing Maneuvers

I just found this short video on Youtube, of a Jeep Commander performing some three wheeled acrobatics at a Jeepland event. Enjoy.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Off Road

Airaid intake system for 5.7L Hemi

Weighing in at just over 5000 pounds, the full-size Commander uses every bit of the 330 horsepower the Hemi generates. So it stands to reason that more power, improved throttle response and more fuel efficiency would be at the top of the “must have” list for Commander owners. Fortunately, Airaid has launched its new performance intake system for the 5.7L Hemi. This new system gives Hemi equipped Commanders an extra boost of torque and horsepower. Another great thing about this intake system is that it can fit the original filter base of the 06 Jeep Commander and can be attached by using a few clips and clamps.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler , Airaid, performance intake

Motormax 1:64 Die Cast 2006 Jeep Commander

I've been patiently waiting to buy a 1:18 or bigger die cast model Commander but it seems that they are still not around. However, I have found a 1:64 Commander replica by Motormax. Motormax manufactures die cast and plastic replicas of various kinds of vehicles including cars, planes and motorcycles.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Jeep Commander 2006 E&G Classic Stainless Steel Heavy Mesh Gille

Now you can really make your Commander stick out of the crowd with this great looking mesh grill by E&G. It is a one piece replacement grille and requires the removal of the factory grille. The center section contains chrome mesh surrounded by a mirror finish bezel. It comes with two emblems ("Classic" and "Limited"), detailed installation instructions and mounting hardware.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

T-Rex Billet Grill Insert for 2006 Commander

For those of you who are into the "chrome" look, check out this Jeep Commander Billet Grill Insertby T-Rex. Features:

• Made from solid stock of aircraft quality T-5 or T-6 billet aluminum.
• Pieces are cut to length and then shaped to the specific contour of the vehicle.
• Hand assembled and precision welded to ensure a strong and clean weld.
• The final stage of manufacturing includes a three-stage polishing and cleaning.

Grille Inserts may require some cutting and/or drilling to be installed.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

New Borla Exhaust for Jeep Commander 4.7L

The aftermarket parts for the Commander keep rolling out. This time Borla, the performance exhaust manufacturer, has launched a performance cat-back exhaust system for the 4.7L V8 engine. Borla's new exhaust features its patented multi-core technology, is made from aircraft quality stainless steel and is backed by Borla's one million mile guarantee. Go to Borla's Jeep Commander performance cat-back system, or browse through the installation instructions.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Jeep Commander Wins 4x4 of the Year Award in U.K.

The Jeep Commander battled famed off-road warriors like the Range Rover and Hummer H3 to win the coveted "4x4 of the Year 2007" award given by U.K. publication 4x4 Magazine. [read more].

Tech Tags: jeep jeep+commander jeepcommander daimlerchrysler

Jeep's August Sales Figures are In

The Jeep brand posted sales of 42,243 units for August 2006, a slight increase compared to previous year sales of 40,659 units for the brand. The Jeep Commanderposted sales of 8,012 units, a 1 percent increase over July 2006 sales of7,363 units. Full Press Release.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Careful When You Back Up!

Oh boy! The Jeep Commander was recently named by Consumer Reports as "Worst Blind Spot Offender", among 200 other cars and SUVs. The magazine testers determine that a 5' 1" driver could not see the top of a 28" traffic cone (roughly the size of a small child) from a distance closer to 69 feet. Read specifics of the report.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

CNET Video Review of the Jeep Commander

CNET has just issued a video reviewing the Commander. The reviewer seems more concerned about the navigation and entertainment systems (and the lack of an I-Pod connection) rather than focusing on the mechanical aspects of the car. However, the video is just 3:40 minutes long and maybe worth watching if you're seriously considering buying a Commander.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Jeep Commander Teams Up with Lara Croft

An interesting product placement agreement has just been forged between Jeep(r) and developer or entertainment software Eidos, through which the Jeep Commander will appear alonside action hero Lara Croft in Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Legend, the latest chapter in the Tomb Raider franchise. Being "adventure" a strong brand attribute of both products, this is one product placement agreement that makes sense.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler, Lara Croft

Randy Sends Us More Pics of His Commander

Randy just sent us these pictures of his 2006 Commander. It has a Rocky Road 2.25 inch lift kit, Custom Wheel Adaptors made of6061-T6 Aluminum, and Bridgestone Dueler REVO All Terrain tires in265/70R 17 size, which is larger than stock. Also a Gibson exhaust system.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Jeep Commander Seats by Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls, the company that manufactures the Jeep Commander seats, and one of the world leaders in automotive interior systems manufacturing, explains the different features of the Jeep Commander's seating surfaces, from the easy-access to the third row mechanism to the various safety features built into the seats.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Startech-Tuned Commander

German super tuner Startech took the Jeep Commander to the drawing board and developed some interesting upgrades available to European Jeep Commander owners. The mods include giving more power to the turbocharged V6 as well as some improvements to the suspension, wheels, brakes and and tires. Read the full press release by Startech.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Chrysler Sales Slid for May, but Commander Up

Chrysler posted a 14% decline in US sales for May compared with the same month last year, but the Jeep Commander sold 6,138 units vs. 5,301 in April. In Canada, the Commander is also selling briskly, leading the Jeep brand to a 26.8% increase vs. 2005.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Jeep Commander Helps Fuel Up Chrysler Sales

The Chrysler Group's first-quarter (2006) retail sales increased by 4% to 690,700 vehicles. The growth was primarily due to the market success of the new products launched in 2005, including the new Dodge Charger (31,400 units) and the Jeep Commander (20,200 units). Factory shipments in the first quarter increased by 4% to 695,400 vehicles.

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler

Chrysler Introduced Flexible-Fuel Commander

Daimler Chrysler anounced that it will begin offering a flexible-fuel Jeep Commander that runs on both gasoline and E85, a blend of gasoline and ethanol made from corn. Chrysler expects 25% of its vehicles to be flexible-fuel enabled in the next few years, to help consumers offset the high price of gas. Ethanol cars have been sold in Brazil with remarkable success in the past several years. The main problem in the US is the lack of gas stations that offer E85 fuel (only 500 from a total of 180,000).

Tags: Jeep, Jeep Commander, Jeep XK, DaimlerChrysler