"Where no Jeep has gone before." That's the company tagline for the 2009 Jeep Commander - the largest of the Jeep family members. It's a fact that most people will never need all of the powerful capability that the Commander offers. There is no terrain that threatens these able monsters. 7 passengers can ride in comfort and extreme safety - and you can also haul a serious load of gear or luggage.

Of course, the NHTSA granted the 2009 Commander a 5-star safety rating for frontal crash tests. Its standard warranty keeps you worry-free for 36 months/36,000 miles and fuel economy is about what you would expect: 14/19 mpg city/highway for the base model. There are three trims available: Sport, Limited and Overland. Both 2WD and 4WD versions are available.

MSRPs range from $28,980 up to $45,710 for the Jeep Commander for 2009. The tough-looking slab-side design is responsible for the generously-spacious cabin. It's big in here! Everyone has all of the room that they need for stretching, snoozing eating and whatever else they may find themselves doing in their new Jeep. Rear seating is raised to a plane above the rest. Younger children especially love the movie theater feel - and the dual paneled glass roof excites their imaginations as well.

This is a Jeep and it is designed as much for utility as anything else. The cargo floor is completely level. 68.5 cubic feet of space is made available for hauling when you easily fold down the rear two seating rows. Even though the Commander is geared for such utility, it rides in smooth luxury. It weathers bumps and uneven terrain in excellent fashion. It is also quiet inside - making it easy for front passengers to communicate with rear passengers without yelling, turning, stretching and the like.

The differences in trim levels is found in the engine/tranny combos and firmer suspension systems, and thereby the towing ratings. The Sport trim comes with a 3.7L 210hp V6; the Limited with a 4.7L 305hp V8 and the Overland with a monster 5.7L 357hp V8. Towing limits are 3500, 6500 and 7200 pounds respectively. Gross vehicle weights are 6400 pounds for the Sport and 6500 pounds for the Limited and Overland.

Competition comes from all of the major players including the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Ford Explorer, Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango. Base model pricing falls exactly in the middle of these competitors. Jeep continues its legacy for being one of the most capable and tough vehicle brands on the planet. Jeep has always stood apart from the rest - and always will. Customer loyalty to the Jeep name has always been strong. If you test drive a new 2009 Jeep Commander, you will definitely understand why.