The Jeep Commander (XK) 4.7i V8 Limited, produced from 2006 to 2010, represented Jeep’s entry into the mid-size SUV segment with three-row seating. Positioned as a more refined and spacious alternative to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Commander aimed to capture a broader customer base seeking both off-road capability and family-friendly practicality. The 4.7i V8 Limited trim, equipped with a 4.7-liter V8 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission, served as a popular mid-range offering, balancing performance with a relatively accessible price point within the Commander lineup. It was built on the WK platform, shared with the Grand Cherokee, but distinguished itself with a more boxy, truck-like aesthetic and a focus on interior volume.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Commander |
| Generation | Commander (XK) |
| Type | 4.7 i V8 Limited (231 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 19.2 l/100 km (12.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.8 l/100 km (15.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 231 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 3600 rpm (302.4 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EVA |
| Engine displacement | 4701 cm3 (286.87 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.7 l (14.48 US qt | 12.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2235 kg (4927.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2823 kg (6223.65 lbs.) |
| Max load | 588 kg (1296.32 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 170 l (6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 78 l (20.61 US gal | 17.16 UK gal) |
| Length | 4787 mm (188.46 in.) |
| Width | 1900 mm (74.8 in.) |
| Height | 1826 mm (71.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2781 mm (109.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Rear track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 245/65 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Commander 4.7i Limited is the 4.7-liter (286.87 cubic inch) V8 engine, internally designated as the EVA engine code. This engine is a naturally aspirated, three-valve-per-cylinder design featuring multi-port fuel injection. The engine’s architecture is a 90-degree V-configuration, providing a relatively compact footprint for a V8. The 4.7L V8 produced 231 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 302 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine’s torque curve was relatively flat, offering usable power across a wide range of engine speeds. The five-speed automatic transmission (545RFE) was the sole transmission option for this variant. This transmission was known for its smooth shifting characteristics, but it wasn’t particularly fuel-efficient compared to more modern automatic transmissions. The transmission featured electronically controlled shifts and a tow/haul mode for improved performance when towing.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.7L V8 and five-speed automatic combination in the Commander delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9 seconds. While sufficient for everyday driving and highway merging, it lagged behind competitors equipped with more powerful V6 or V8 engines. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfort and towing capability rather than outright acceleration. The Commander’s substantial weight (approximately 4,927 lbs) also contributed to its less-than-sporty driving dynamics. However, the engine’s torque output provided reasonable pulling power, making it suitable for light to moderate towing duties. Compared to the higher-output 5.7L Hemi V8 Commander, the 4.7L felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Limited trim level of the Jeep Commander 4.7i V8 offered a good balance of features and value. Standard equipment included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and power-adjustable pedals. Exterior features included alloy wheels, fog lights, and a roof rack. Optional extras included a navigation system, rear-seat entertainment system, and a sunroof. The interior design was generally functional and comfortable, although the materials used weren’t as luxurious as those found in some competing SUVs. The third-row seats were relatively cramped, making them best suited for children or short trips.
Chassis & Braking
The Commander’s chassis utilized a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing robust durability and off-road capability. The front suspension featured an independent coil spring design, while the rear suspension employed a solid axle with coil springs. This setup provided a comfortable ride on paved roads, but it wasn’t as refined as the independent rear suspension found in some competitors. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The Commander’s relatively heavy weight and modest braking performance meant that stopping distances were longer than those of lighter SUVs. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Commander 4.7i V8 Limited received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its spacious interior, off-road capability, and comfortable ride, it was criticized for its lackluster performance, poor fuel economy (15.9 US mpg combined), and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to the 5.7L Hemi V8 Commander, the 4.7L offered better fuel economy but significantly less power. The 4.7L also offered a more affordable entry point into the Commander lineup. Compared to competitors like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the Commander offered a more rugged and capable off-road experience, but it lacked the refinement and fuel efficiency of some of its rivals.
Legacy
The Jeep Commander, while not a runaway sales success, established a niche for itself as a capable and spacious SUV with genuine off-road credentials. The 4.7L V8 engine, while not known for its longevity, proved to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues included oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. Today, the Commander 4.7i V8 Limited can be found on the used car market at relatively affordable prices. It appeals to buyers seeking a rugged and capable SUV with three-row seating, but potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s potential maintenance needs and the vehicle’s relatively poor fuel economy. The Commander remains a distinctive and recognizable vehicle, representing a unique chapter in Jeep’s history.
