On the positive, the general layout of controls is nicely executed, with high quality switchgear on the centre stack and connected to the

On the positive, the general layout of controls is nicely executed, with high quality switchgear on the centre stack and connected to the steering column. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

steering column, and my favourite steering wheel audio controls attached to the rear of the steering wheel spokes - cruise buttons are up front. Large, legible chrome-trimmed gauges are set into an effectively shaded instrument cluster, mirrored by chrome rimmed knobs on the centre stack-mounted dual-zone climate control system. The audio interface is less jeweled, in appearance at least, but in reality is pulled right out of the top-line Chrysler 300C, and when so equipped, features an integrated DVD-based navigation system and Uconnect hands-free communications. Other

Before I delve into the Commander's off-road capability, I should mention that I was absolutely amazed at how comfortably the car took to the curving highways and winding dirt roads that snaked through the area's expansive valleys. (Photo: Dean Washington, Canadian Auto Press)

high-tech goodies include ParkSense rear parking assistance, SmartBeam headlamps and rain sensitive wipers.

I didn't have need for wipers during our Kananaskis, Alberta test drive, as the skies were blue and Rocky Mountain scenery absolutely stunning, the perfect backdrop for such an adventurous vehicle.

Before I delve into the Commander's off-road capability, I should mention that I was absolutely amazed at how comfortably the car took to the curving highways that snaked through the area's expansive valleys. If you haven't been in a Jeep lately, the Commander, and its Grand Cherokee sibling do not in any way shape or form ride like the CJ and YJ of yore. While the brand still produces a model with backbreaking capability now dubbed TJ (Wrangler in the U.S.), the two luxury models are absolutely civilized, with the Commander the most comfortable of them all.