The 2008 Jeep Commander equipped with the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is rated at 345 horsepower.
Beyond the raw horsepower, the engine’s torque, transmission, and drivetrain configuration shape how that power translates to real-world performance. This article details the official figures for the 2008 Commander and places them in context with the vehicle’s overall capabilities.
Engine specifications
Here are the key figures for the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 used in the 2008 Commander. The data reflect SAE net horsepower and torque for this model year.
- Engine displacement: 5.7 L (345 cu in) V8
- Horsepower: 345 hp (257 kW) at 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 370 lb-ft (501 Nm) at 4,000–4,400 rpm
- Configuration: 90-degree V8 Hemi
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive standard; 4x4 available
Note: While 345 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque are the commonly cited figures for the 2008 Commander’s 5.7 Hemi, exact numbers can vary slightly by market, calibration, and specific vehicle configuration. Always check the window sticker for the precise rating on a given vehicle.
Context and comparisons
How the 5.7 Hemi compares with other engines in the lineup
In the 2008 Commander lineup, the 5.7-liter Hemi sat above smaller V8 options in horsepower, while still being superseded by higher-performance versions in other Jeep models. A 4.7-liter V8 was available in some configurations with lower horsepower, and higher-performance variants like the SRT8 used larger displacement Hemi engines in later years. For everyday use, the 5.7 Hemi offered a balance of power and versatility appropriate for a mid-size SUV of its era.
Performance implications
With 345 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque, the Commander’s V8 delivered strong on-road acceleration for its size and a capable baseline for towing and highway merging. When paired with the available four-wheel-drive system, the engine’s output could be effectively harnessed in a range of driving conditions, from wet highways to light off-road use.
It’s worth noting that fuel economy and performance can be affected by vehicle weight, drivetrain configuration, and overall maintenance. If you’re evaluating a specific used Commander, a VIN-based history and a hands-on test drive can help confirm how the engine’s horsepower translates to real-world performance.
Summary
The 2008 Jeep Commander with the 5.7-liter Hemi is commonly listed at 345 horsepower and 370 lb-ft of torque, delivering strong performance for its class. Variations may exist by market and vehicle configuration, so the exact rating should be confirmed on the individual vehicle’s documentation. Overall, the combination of horsepower, torque, and available four-wheel-drive made the 5.7 Hemi a capable and versatile engine choice for the 2008 Commander.


