The Jeep Commander (XK) 5.7i V8 Hemi Limited 4WD Automatic, produced from 2006 to 2010, represented Jeep’s entry into the mid-size SUV segment with three-row seating. Positioned as a more premium offering within the XK Commander lineup, the 5.7L Hemi V8 variant aimed to provide a blend of capability, space, and power for families seeking a robust SUV. It was built on the Jeep WK platform, sharing many components with the Jeep Grand Cherokee of the same era, but distinguished itself through its unique body style and seven-passenger capacity. This particular trim level, the Limited, sat at the top of the Commander range, offering a comprehensive package of features and the most powerful engine available.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Commander |
| Generation | Commander (XK) |
| Type | 5.7 i V8 Hemi Limited (326 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) | 21 l/100 km (11.2 US mpg, 13.5 UK mpg, 4.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.5 l/100 km (15.2 US mpg, 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 208 km/h (129.25 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp, 140.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 215.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 326 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 4000 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EZB |
| Engine displacement | 5654 cm3 (345.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.9 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.7 l (14.48 US qt | 12.05 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2318 kg (5110.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2620 kg (5776.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 302 kg (665.8 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 5.7 Limited is the 5.7-liter (345 cubic inch) Hemi V8 engine, designated the EZB code. This engine is a member of Chrysler’s third-generation Hemi family, featuring a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder heads, and a two-valve-per-cylinder configuration. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s design emphasizes low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and off-road driving. The 5.7L Hemi produces 326 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 368 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with the engine is a five-speed automatic transmission (545RFE), known for its smooth shifting and durability. This transmission was designed to handle the substantial torque output of the Hemi V8 and provide adequate gear ratios for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.7L Hemi-equipped Commander delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7 seconds. While not a sports car, the engine provides ample power for merging onto highways and passing other vehicles. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and ease of use, with relatively smooth gear changes. However, compared to the manual transmission options or the smaller 3.7L V6, the 5.7L feels heavier and less agile. The gear ratios are optimized for towing capacity and low-end grunt rather than outright performance. The 4WD system provides confident traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-roader, though its size limits maneuverability on tight trails.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Limited trim level included a generous array of standard features. Interior appointments typically included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and automatic climate control. Exterior features included alloy wheels, chrome accents, and fog lights. Optional extras included a rear entertainment system, a navigation system, and power-adjustable pedals. The Limited trim also offered more advanced safety features, such as side curtain airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Chassis & Braking
The Commander’s chassis features a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension utilizes an independent coil spring setup, while the rear suspension employs a solid axle with coil springs. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard. The Commander’s weight and size necessitate a relatively firm suspension tuning, which can result in a somewhat bumpy ride on rough roads. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Commander 5.7 Limited received mixed reviews. Critics praised its spacious interior, powerful engine, and off-road capability. However, it was often criticized for its poor fuel economy (15.5 l/100km combined), cumbersome handling, and dated interior design. Compared to the 3.7L V6 Commander, the 5.7L offered significantly more power and towing capacity but at the expense of fuel efficiency. Against competitors like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the Commander stood out with its more rugged styling and superior off-road credentials, but lagged behind in terms of refinement and fuel economy.
Legacy
The Jeep Commander, while not a massive sales success, carved a niche for itself as a unique and capable SUV. The 5.7L Hemi V8 powertrain, while thirsty, proved to be relatively reliable. Today, well-maintained Commanders with the 5.7L engine are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate their power and towing capacity. Common maintenance issues include oil leaks, sensor failures, and wear and tear on the suspension components. The 545RFE transmission, when properly serviced, is generally considered durable. The Commander represents a distinctive chapter in Jeep’s history, offering a blend of American muscle and off-road capability in a seven-passenger package.
