By: Lisa Ziegler
At the 77th Geneva International Motor Show Chrysler Group's Jeep division has showcased seven new all-new models expanding the company’s product range of on- and off-road sport utility vehicles (SUV).
According to Thomas Hausch, Executive Director – International Sales and Marketing, Chrysler Group: “The Jeep brand is on a product offensive and will continue to grow with new offerings that leverage Jeep’s legendary 4x4 leadership. We have solidified the Jeep brand’s foundation with the all-new Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, while also stretching the brand to reach new customers in the growing compact SUV segment with Jeep Compass, the segment’s most fuel-efficient vehicle, and Jeep Patriot.”
One of these new SUV models presented at Geneva is the top of the range Jeep Commander Overland, which offers more features and refinement inside and out for the 2007 model year.
During its launch at the Geneva Motor Show, Thomas Hausch said: “Jeep Commander is the first seven-passenger 4x4 that is as capable as it is distinctive. It is also the only SUV in its class to offer two V-8 petrol engines, as well as a class-leading diesel V-6. Now with the understated luxury of the new range-topping Overland model, Jeep Commander becomes the ultimate expression of Jeep ‘Classic’ design and an even more compelling package for customers in Europe and other international markets.”
Jeep Commander Overland offers an enhanced interior with new high-quality materials and accents providing a comfortable ambience for the occupants. Interior highlights include leather-wrapped steering wheel with Vavona Burl wood rim insert, leather trimmed centre armrest, leather trimmed door grab, leather trimmed handles, leather trimmed gear shifter, Vavona Burl wood trim on upper instrument panel, centre floor console bezel, and front door switch bezels. In addition, the two-tone seats come with Suede Microfiber and leather trim, with an Overland logo embroidered on the front seatbacks. A bunch of interior color combinations is also available. Comfort and practicality is an important factor for the Commander Overland. The seating capacity is two in front, three in the middle, and two at the rear. Cargo compartment volume is at 212 litres (7.5 cu. ft.) with third row seats upright, and 1028 litres (36.3 cu. ft.) with third row folded.
Outside, the Jeep Commander Overland embodies the traditional Jeep styling, marked by the vehicle's bold and aggressive body highlighted by the honeycomb mesh 7-slot front grille, lower front fascia, bodyside mouldings, roof rack side rails, and the rear tailgate badge. An 18-inch 7-spoke machine faced aluminum wheels with all-season performance tires completes the overall appearance of the Jeep Commander Overland.
Moving on the technical side, the Jeep Commander Overland comes with two power plants for the customers to choose from: the 5.7-litre HEMI V8 and the 3.0-litre V-6 turbo diesel engine. The 5.7-litre HEMI V8 petrol engine is standard for all Commander Overland models. It is rated to deliver 326 hp (240 kW) at 5,000 rpm and produces 369 lb.-ft. (500 Nm) amount of maximum torque rotating at 4,000 rpm. For fuel efficient customers, the 3.0-litre V-6 turbo diesel is available, capable of producing 218 hp (160 kW) at 4,000 rpm and 376 lb.-ft. (510 Nm) of peak torque at 1,600-2,400 rpm. The engine has 6 cylinders and features common-rail high-pressure direct injection to provide improved fuel efficiency and cleaner exhaust emissions. Both engines are combined with a standard 5-speed automatic gearbox.
To enhance the vehicle handling and steering, Jeep has equipped the Commander Overland with high-quality suspension and chassis parts including live solid axle and five-link suspension, twin monotube shock absorbers, rack-and-pinion with hydraulic power assist, and Jeep Lift kits.
