All new JEEP® Commander is a unique blend of capacity and distinctive design

The launch of the all-new Jeep® Commander signals the on-going Jeep product offensive scheduled for the next two years in markets outside of North America. Classic in design, Jeep Commander is the first of the Jeep family to offer standard three-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The nimble, rugged 4x4 is engineered to perform as only Jeep vehicles can, offering more capability, more flexibility and advanced safety and security technologies that are sure to appeal to international customers.

"Jeep Commander is the first seven-passenger 4x4 that is as capable as it is distinctive," said Thomas Hausch, Executive Director of International Sales and Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Jeep Commander is also the only SUV in its class to offer a V-8 petrol engine and a class-leading diesel V-6. In addition, Commander expands and strengthens what is already an excellent lineup, consisting of Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, and initiates the expansion of the Jeep vehicle lineup that will take place during the second half of this decade."

Modern interpretation of heritage design with rugged look and a premium interior


The Jeep Commander's upright windscreen, backlight and rear end, as well as its more vertical body sides and side glass, embody the vehicle's classic Jeep styling. The side-view mirrors are also bold and purpose-built. Overall, Commander looks strong and confident because of its classic Jeep styling - upright and rugged. Commander engages the emotions because it is steeped in the heritage of Jeep design - integrating the past and present.

"The original Jeep Cherokee is an authentic, classic shape that is rooted in the public consciousness," said Donald A. Renkert, Senior Manager/Jeep Studio, Chrysler Group Product Design Office. "By reinterpreting that vehicle, and other classic Jeep vehicles of the past, the Jeep Commander elicits nods of recognition from consumers, even though it is a brand new vehicle. There is a sense of deja vu about the Commander that brings knowing smiles of satisfaction. It is all-new and timeless at once."

The satisfaction continues inside the vehicle, where great attention to detail is clearly evident. From the gear shift knob, to the four round gauges in the instrument cluster, to the new steering wheel, Jeep Commander is refined and uniquely Jeep in appearance.

Newly designed seats are supportive and comfortable and, for the first time in a Jeep, there are now three rows of them. With each row slightly higher than the one in front of it, this distinctive "theatre-style" arrangement improves forward visibility for every passenger and delivers an optimal all-round view. The second- and third-row seats fold forward to create a flat load floor. Jeep Commander is only 37 mm (1.5 in.) longer than the newest Jeep Grand Cherokee, even though it accommodates its three rows of seats. Since they share the same Jeep 4x4 systems, powertrains and wheelbase (2780 mm/109.4 in.), Commander is just as manoeuvrable and off-road capable as Grand Cherokee.

The Jeep Commander's stepped roof provides second- and third-row occupants with plenty of head room. Complementing the available front-mounted sun roof is Command-ViewTM the new and innovative skylights (complete with shades) over the second row of seats.

The lower portion of the dashboard panel is shared with Grand Cherokee, but the top section is all-new and prominently features four pairs of circular adjustable air vents and proudly displays 16 Allen head bolts (14 are functional) that also contribute to the mechanical, constructed look of the vehicle. Both the steering wheel centre and the gear selector knob present the Jeep logo framed in a bright ring with exposed simulated Allen bolt heads to continue and enhance the overall design theme. A precise four-dial instrument cluster with LED illumination features black gauges with white graphics and red pointers for reading ease in all conditions.

Seating seven in style

The Jeep Commander has "theatre-style" seating that enhances the functionality of its three-row, seven-passenger layout. The second-row seats are mounted 117.3 mm (4.62 in.) higher than the front row, and third row seats are 120.45 mm (4.74 in.) higher than the second row - to ensure all occupants enjoy an excellent view of the surrounding cityscape or countryside.

The second-row 40/20/40 split seats are engineered so the outer sections fold down and tumble forward to allow passengers entry or exit from the third row on either side of the vehicle. All three second-row seatbacks can be folded onto the cushions to form a flat-load area.

For maximum comfort, Jeep Commander has an available heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system in the third row. Fully independent of the front system, it feeds warmed or cooled air to a single floor-level outlet and two circular rotating outlets on each side of the rear trim.

As well as seating seven in style, the Jeep Commander accommodates amazing space for passengers and cargo. With seven on board, there is room for 212.4 litres of luggage. Folding the third-row seats expands the cargo space to 1027.9 litres and also folding the second row gives a total of 1939.7 litres.

Engineered to go anywhere, do anything

Class-leading off-road capability and on-road refinement were mandatory for the Jeep Commander. So the Jeep engineering team went to the head of the class: they provided Commander with the same 4x4 systems, suspension and powertrains as the award-winning Jeep Grand Cherokee, including an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

"Jeep Grand Cherokee reset the SUV benchmark with its on-road refinement, off-road mastery and overall performance in key areas of customer satisfaction," said Hausch. "Now the all-new seven-passenger Jeep Commander, with the new 3.0-litre CRD V-6 engine and the 5.7-litre HEMI® with cylinder deactivation through the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), will become a compelling package for many customers in Europe and other international markets."

NEW ENGINES DELIVER PERFORMANCE AND POWER

The 3.0 CRD engine is a "next-generation" power unit from DaimlerChrysler producing class-leading levels of power and torque - giving it immense towing ability - with efficient fuel economy. Based on the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, Bosch high-pressure fuel injection (1600+ bar), a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder, the new V-6 engine meets Euro 4 emissions standards. Additionally, the Jeep Commander's diesel emission system is equipped with a standard diesel particulate filter.

Maximum power is 160 kW (215 hp DIN) and peak torque is 510 N•m (376 lb.-ft.) from just 1600 to 4000 rpm. The accelerator pedal is modified to reduce transmission kick-downs during normal driving but still allow for full pedal travel when quicker acceleration is demanded by the driver.

For customers requiring maximum performance, the 5.7-litre HEMI engine delivers class-leading power and torque: 240 kW (322 hp DIN @ 5000 rpm) and 500 N•m (369 lb.-ft. at 4000 rpm). Ninety percent of peak torque is available over a broad rev-band (from 2400 to 5100 rpm) for excellent performance while trailer towing or travelling off-road, as well as during regular city and highway driving. To boost fuel economy, the engine is fitted with the Multi-Displacement System that deactivates half the cylinders during cruising and light acceleration to increase fuel economy by up to 20 percent, depending on driving conditions.

TWO AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS OFFER PREMIUM REFINEMENT

The 3.0 CRD engine is mated to a five-speed W5A580 automatic transmission that offers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy with the diesel engine. The 5-45RFE five-speed automatic transmission used with the 5.7-litre HEMI V-8 engine has been refined for higher-quality shifts and to maximize the Jeep Commander's towing capacity.

Both transmissions feature Electronic Range Select driver interactive shift control. The transmission provides fully automatic shifting in the "drive" position or the driver can manually select each gear sequentially by moving the shift lever left or right from the "drive" position. This gives the driver precise control to match any on-road or off-road driving conditions.

SOPHISTICATED SUSPENSION PROVIDES CONFIDENT RIDE AND HANDLING

The Jeep Commander shares its suspension and running gear with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This includes short- and long-arm front suspension that provides the driver with a greater sense of precision and control, and more precise steering, without compromising Commander's stalwart off-road performance. The tight turning diameter of 11.2 m provides for nimble handling.

The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), which is standard, aids the driver in severe driving manoeuvres on any type of surface. ESP uses signals from sensors throughout the vehicle to determine the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments for directional stability.

CLASS-LEADING FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE CAPABILITIES

Quadra-Drive II® is one of the most advanced four-wheel-drive transfer case systems available, providing Jeep Commander with best-in-class tractive capability. Electronic Limited Slip Differentials - front and rear - offer customers the ultimate in off-road capability. Quadra-Drive II provides electronic engagement of torque biasing for the front axle, as well as the rear. As a result, torque transfer is faster, and almost 100 percent of the torque can be distributed to any of the four wheels, a capability that is unique to Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

UNPRECEDENTED SAFETY AND SECURITY, DESIGNED IN FROM THE BEGINNING

Like all Chrysler Group vehicles, the Jeep Commander is designed to improve not only handling and accident avoidance, but also to provide excellent crash protection. Crash protection features available on the Commander include advanced multi-stage front air bags, extended up-time supplemental side-curtain air bags for all three rows, seat belts equipped with pretensioners and digressive load limiting retractors, and BeltAlert®, a buckle-up reminder system for the driver.

Active safety features on the new Jeep Commander include:

• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM)

• Brake Assist System

• Advanced Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

• Tyre pressure monitor display on Limited (warning light on Predator)

• ParkSenseTM front and rear park assist (standard on Limited)

• Rain-sensitive wipers (standard on Limited)

• Thatcham 1 alarm and immobiliser

• Full length side-curtain airbags and multi-stage front airbags.

Practical innovation has been applied to the all-new Jeep Commander through integrated safety and security features which were designed into the vehicle from the start.

Systems such as the Electronic Limited Slip Differentials (ELSD) of the Quadra-Drive II system and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) contribute to the Jeep Commander's exceptional vehicle dynamics. Systems like advanced multi-stage front and available side curtain airbags, tyre pressure monitoring and ParkSense™ rear park assist offer the latest innovations in occupant protection, safety and security on the road.

"Applying the latest available technology to protect occupants is of utmost importance to the Chrysler Group," said Craig Love, Vice President - Rear Wheel Drive Product Team and Core Team Leader. "By integrating safety and security technologies during the design phase, we're able to offer our customers the tools to avoid collisions, as well as protection in the event of a collision."

ACCIDENT AVOIDANCE FEATURES:

ABS

To optimise overall driving performance, the Jeep Commander offers many accident avoidance systems. The anti-lock brake system (ABS) with emergency brake assist reduces brake pressure at the wheels and prohibits wheel lock during a braking event. The system monitors the rotation and wheel slip of each wheel. Brake pressure is applied and modulated to achieve optimal performance for braking and steering under all surface conditions including dry, wet, snow and ice covered pavement.

Electronic Stability Program

The vehicle also features the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) as standard. ESP observes and monitors the overall vehicle behaviour, in addition to each wheel, under all driving situations and conditions. The system compares the intended course given by the driver input (steering angle) with the measured behaviour of the vehicle. In case of deviations or instability of the vehicle, ESP engages through a reduction of the engine torque and active brake pressure engagement on one or more wheels.

Rollover mitigation

Jeep Commander also features a new electronic rollover mitigation system that anticipates critical situations for the vehicle that may lead to a rollover condition. This system observes and monitors the driver input, vehicle roll attitude and lateral force, while estimating the potential for a rollover situation. The electronic rollover mitigation system reduces engine torque and applies a short burst of full braking to the appropriate wheel to stabilise the vehicle.

Tyre pressure monitoring

A tyre pressure monitoring system is standard on all Jeep Commander models. The system includes pressure sensor modules that are integrated with the valve stems of all four road wheels as well as the spare tyre. Each module sends continuous radio frequency signals to a receiver and informs occupants when the pressure is too low. The system displays tyre pressure through the Electronic Vehicle Information Centre on Limited models (a warning light illuminates on Predator models).

COMMUNICATIONS & ENTERTAINMENT

• DVD-based GPS navigation radio offers many useful features

• Boston Acoustics stereo and rear-seat entertainment offer multiple options

Chrysler Group has enhanced the new Jeep Commander's vehicle communication and entertainment options through practical, premium applications, which can be experienced at the touch of a button.

GPS navigation radio system

The new GPS navigation radio option for the Jeep Commander in Europe has been designed with a large, easy-to-read screen, voice guidance and a number of options that will appeal to both drivers and music enthusiasts alike.

The navigation radio system is housed in the centre of the vehicle's dashboard, conveniently located for operation by either front seat occupant. This system features a large 14.7 cm (5.8 in.) full-colour display, AM/FM stereo, six-disc CD system that can play MP3 audio files and a navigation system, all in one unit. An eight-way joystick allows users to scroll through navigation menus and icons quickly and effortlessly.

The navigation system receives its GPS signals from up to eight satellites to display the position and direction of the vehicle. When a destination is entered, the system uses DVD data to quickly calculate a route. The system then guides the user through the drive route providing voice prompts, mile by mile, turn by turn, until the final destination is reached. Destinations may be entered into the system in 10 different ways, and the screen may be viewed as a detailed map or enlarged to be viewed turn by turn.

The navigation system features a single DVD-ROM based NAVTECH database. This solution eliminates the need to handle and store multiple discs required in CD-based solutions. In addition, route calculations are made within 10 seconds with Alpine Electronics' proprietary software. This is crucial when a driver misses a turn and needs a re-route.

Navigation system features:

Map zoom: nine scales to increase or decrease magnification.

Voice guidance: four options: Maximum, Normal, Minimum or Off.

Route guidance: viewed as turn-by-turn map, full-display map or both.

Languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese or Dutch. Preferences are in miles or km.

Routing methods: Shortest Route, Quickest Route, Minimum Toll Roads, Maximum Autoroute or Minimum Autoroute.

Automatic route recalculation and detour functions: recalculates vehicle position and displays a new route should the user encounter a detour or stray from the suggested route.

Manoeuvre list: reviews the trip itinerary prior to departure and facilitates changes before heading out on the road.

Trail function: obtains longitude, latitude and altitude readings.

Navigation destinations may be selected from 10 categories:

Point of interest: select a destination from a list of locations and public places that are grouped by category.

Address: locate address by street name, city name and country.

Personal address book: stores up to 100 personal locations and phone numbers, recalls an address from the address book for use as a destination.

Recent destination: choose a destination from your 10 most recent trips.

Home designation: recall a saved address as your destination.

Trip itinerary: enter up to 10 destinations to calculate the most efficient route.

City centre: calculate a route with the destination at the centre of the city.

Map display: select a destination directly from the map screen.

Phone number: use a business phone number to find a route to the location.

Intersection: input the names of two cross streets as your destination.

Concert-hall quality sound system

The standard audio equipment for Jeep Commander is an AM/FM stereo radio with single-disc CD player. Limited and Overland models add a Boston Acoustics six-speaker sound system with full screen sat-nav and 6 disc CD. The radio aerial is located in the rear window glass.

The standard fit Boston Acoustics sound system has a 276 watt amplifier and six speakers - two 8.9 cm (3.5-in.) mid-to-high frequency units in the instrument panel, two 15.2 x 22.9 cm (6 x 9 in.) woofers in the front doors and two 6.5-inch full-range speakers in the rear doors.

The amplifier features Digital Signal Processing for a clean sound with minimal distortion. Boston Acoustics sound performance is characterised by a smooth octave-to-octave tonal balance with natural frequency response and a distortion-free, uncoloured presentation that is faithful to the artist's original recording.

Rear-seat entertainment system

An optional DVD entertainment system - consisting of centre-console-mounted DVD player, overhead LCD monitor, wireless remote control and two wireless headsets - is located in the second row for rear-seat passenger enjoyment. In addition to video DVDs, the system will play audio DVDs, audio CDs, MP3 audio discs and video CDs. There are also plug-in jacks on the housing to show video from a video camera, connect video games for display on the screen and play music through the rear headphones directly from an MP3 player.

TWO PRODUCTION PLANTS TO MEET GLOBAL DEMAND

To meet the anticipated demand for the new Jeep Commander, two world-class facilities will be employed to build the vehicle on the same assembly lines as the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Mich. (USA) will build vehicles for primarily the North American market. Assembly for European and other world market customers will take place at the Magna Steyr manufacturing facility in Graz, Austria.

Magna Steyr

Magna Steyr is a wholly owned group of the Canada-based Magna International Inc., which ranks among the world's largest suppliers to the automotive industry. Magna International employs over 81,000 people at 223 manufacturing divisions and 56 engineering centres in 22 countries. Magna Steyr is the premier global supplier of complete vehicle engineering and assembly for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) customers. At the Magna Steyr plant in Graz, around 9,000 employees built over 227,000 vehicles in 2004.

JEEP BRAND

The heroic heritage of Jeep and its dominance of the SUV market stretch back more than 65 years. Jeep is known worldwide for its core attributes of mastery, authenticity, freedom and adventure. Sales of Jeep brand vehicles outside of North America rose 15 percent year-over-year with 84,019 units sold in 2005. All three models - Wrangler, Cherokee (Liberty) and Grand Cherokee - posted gains over the prior year.

All Commander models are covered by the comprehensive Jeep warranty scheme, which provides a three-year/60,000 mile mechanical warranty, seven-year anti-corrosion warranty and 12 months European roadside assistance.