Cadillac and Lincoln had the full-size luxurious SUV market to themselves for greater than 20 years, however Jeep is lastly able to hop in with its personal entrant. Nicely, kind of. The 2022 Wagoneer and 2022 Grand Wagoneer are again, however they do not have a single Jeep badge on them. That is as a result of Jeep needed patrons to take these autos severely within the luxurious section, so that they get particular branding (extra on that later). There hasn’t been a Wagoneer on sale since 1991, however the identify nonetheless conjures up photographs of full-size American luxurious. With ’90s nostalgia working at full energy lately, now appears like the proper time to revive the nameplate.
Jeep says the usual Wagoneer targets the center of the full-size market; consider it as a rival for the GMC Yukon and the premium Yukon Denali. As for the Grand Wagoneer, it punches considerably larger, going toe-to-toe with the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. So, can Jeep topple these two luxurious icons? Based mostly on first impressions, we are saying, sure.
Styled By Heritage
Although they’ve totally different names, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer share dimensions. They measure 214.7 inches lengthy with a 123-inch wheelbase, making them longer than an ordinary Escalade however shorter than the Escalade ESV; they’re additionally two and a half inches wider than the GM opponents. These huge proportions give the Wagoneers an intimidating presence worthy of a full-size luxurious SUV.
The seven-slot grille ties the Wagoneer fashions to the Jeep model, however there is not a Jeep badge in sight. The Grand Wagoneer’s grille incorporates paint-over-chrome laser-etched rings for a extra upscale look. Wagoneer fashions get normal LED headlamps and glued facet steps whereas the Grand Wagoneer will get premium LED lighting, power-retractable working boards, fender flares, a singular hood, and a black roof. Wheels vary from 20 to 22 inches on each fashions, however 18s will be had on the Wagoneer for off-road use.
Like the unique Wagoneer, the brand new fashions have giant home windows, bettering outward visibility. The tall window look is a controversial design ingredient, however we expect the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer look extra elegant in individual than images. It is troublesome to make a full-size SUV seem distinctive, and it is even harder to make it fairly. A minimum of within the former, Jeep succeeded right here.
Engine, Efficiency, & MPG
At launch, there is not a lot to select from underneath the hood. All Wagoneer fashions use a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine producing 392 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque. That is considerably larger output than GM’s 5.3-liter V8 and Ford’s entry-level 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. The 5.7-liter engine comes mated to an eTorque 48-volt mild-hybrid system, that means the cease/begin system is seamless and the facility band is easy. The eTorque system delivers 130 lb-ft of torque throughout throttle tip-in, making the Wagoneer a bit gutsier off the road.
Along with energy and drivability, the mild-hybrid system additionally improves gasoline financial system by permitting the Wagoneer to close off gasoline supply whereas coasting. Sadly, these fuel-saving measures solely go thus far on a automobile that may weigh over 6,000 kilos. The EPA charges the 2WD Wagoneer at 16/22/18 mpg metropolis/freeway/mixed, whereas the 4WD mannequin manages solely 15/20/17 mpg. On the intense facet, the Wagoneer can tow 10,000 kilos, which is best-in-class.
Upgrading to the Grand Wagoneer replaces the 5.7-liter V8 with a bigger 6.4-liter unit that is acquainted to any Scat Pack proprietor. This muscular engine delivers 471 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque, motivating this behemoth as much as 60 mph in simply six seconds. We would not name the usual Wagoneer sluggish, however the Grand accelerates with extra vigor and fewer effort. As with different functions of this engine, cylinder deactivation helps it save gasoline, however it’s nonetheless a thirsty beast. The EPA charges the Grand Wagoneer at 13/18/15 mpg metropolis/freeway/mixed in its 4WD configuration, the one one obtainable at launch. We sit up for an upcoming 4xe mannequin with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
Each fashions ship energy out by a easy eight-speed transmission. Jeep affords three obtainable 4×4 techniques referred to as Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II. Quadra-Trac is a full-time system with no buttons or levers to work together with, whereas Quadra-Trac II provides two-speed switch case. Quadra-Drive II is probably the most off-road-ready system with a mechanical restricted slip differential (or elective eLSD) and energetic low vary.
Floats Like A Wagoneer
The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer use related underpinnings because the Ram 1500, probably the most car-like pickup truck in the marketplace. Entrance impartial double wishbone suspension and multi-link coil-spring rear suspension assist the Wagoneer stay compliant, even over torn-up New York Metropolis streets. We drove the Wagoneer with the elective Quadra-Elevate air suspension (normal on Grand Wagoneer), which additional improves the journey consolation past what we might count on in a body-on-frame SUV. With the air suspension geared up on the Wagoneer, it didn’t really feel missing in comparison with its extra premium sibling. We might wish to pattern a Wagoneer with out the air suspension to see the way it stands as much as tough street surfaces.
Each autos really feel fairly huge because of their width and size, however variable steering helps them maneuver extra graciously. The steering will get gentle at low speeds to make parking heaps much less daunting, then tightens up on the freeway to require much less enter for lane modifications. Even on crappy NYC parkways, each SUVs saved occupants relaxed and comfy with little street noise. Other than the gutsier energy supply within the Grand Wagoneer, we did not assume both mannequin lacked in consolation or felt noticeably totally different.
A Grand Cabin
Competing within the full-size section, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer want to supply house in bulk. With seating for as much as eight passengers, each fashions fulfill this function. In reality, Jeep touts best-in-class general passenger quantity and whole quantity, even counting the lengthy wheelbase Yukon XL and Escalade ESV. Legroom for second and third-row passengers is best-in-class as properly, that means there are not any uncomfortable seats in both automobile. Entering into the third row is straightforward because of a brand new Tip n’ Slide perform that pushes the second row ahead with a single button press. The third row is power-operated with one contact, and might recline for passenger consolation.
The usual Wagoneer feels premium inside with normal Nappa leather-based, although the Grand Wagoneer feels much more upscale with obtainable Palermo leather-based on higher trim ranges. Each fashions obtain retro-themed inside nods, corresponding to a two-spoke steering wheel and “EST. 1963” inscription. Jeep affords a number of totally different inside colours and veneers relying on the trim, with the best trim Grand Wagoneer surpassing Cadillac and Lincoln as regards to materials high quality.
Screens, Screens, & Extra Screens
Jeep impresses with its inside high quality, however the know-how is the wow issue right here. The newest Cadillac Escalade launched with 38 inches of display screen actual property, to which Jeep replied, “we’ll present you screens!” The Grand Wagoneer comes with as much as 75 inches of whole display screen house, whereas the Wagoneer nonetheless boasts a formidable 50 inches. Normal Wagoneer fashions get a ten.1-inch Uconnect5 infotainment system, whereas the Grand Wagoneer ups that to 12 inches. Each display screen sizes embrace wi-fi Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and connectivity for 2 Bluetooth gadgets.
The gauge cluster display screen measures 10.25-inches within the Wagoneer and 12.3 within the Grand, whereas the Grand additionally will get an extra 10.25-inch consolation display screen beneath the infotainment to regulate the local weather and therapeutic massage capabilities. Within the Grand Wagoneer with captain’s chairs, one other display screen positioned within the rear heart console controls the local weather and seat capabilities. Optionally, the passenger can have their very own 10.25-inch display screen to regulate enter navigation locations and management media inputs. The passenger may even watch films or tv as a result of the display screen can’t be seen by the driving force.
The rear seats boast probably the most revolutionary leisure function with two obtainable 10.1-inch screens mounted to the entrance seat backs. Rear seat leisure is nothing new however these screens lastly belong within the twenty first century with built-in Hearth TV integration. Utilizing the touchscreens or two included remotes, rear occupants can watch Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, YouTube, or just about some other streaming service utilizing the automobile’s built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. It is a recreation changer for rear-seat leisure. Dad and mom may even use the entrance screens to observe what their youngsters are watching to verify they do not select something inappropriate.
Children can hearken to media by their headphones, however the audio system is a part of the expertise within the Wagoneer, and particularly the Grand Wagoneer. As normal, the Wagoneer features a nine-speaker Alpine audio system that we did not have an opportunity to pattern. An elective McIntosh MX950 Leisure System packs 19 audio system and 950 watts, with a 10-inch subwoofer. Solely the Grand Wagoneer is offered with the McIntosh MX1375 Reference Leisure System, which bundles 23 audio system, 1,375 watts, and a 12-inch subwoofer with 3D Encompass System. The McIntosh MX1375 is likely one of the best-sounding audio techniques we have ever examined.
Large Cargo Area
The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer aren’t simply spacious for passengers, they’ll haul a ton of cargo as properly. With 27.4 cubic ft behind the third row Jeep claims it has best-in-class quantity, although the prolonged wheelbase Yukon XL and Escalade ESV are barely bigger. With the third row folded utilizing the one-touch energy buttons, the house opens to 70.8 cubic ft within the Wagoneer or 70.9 cubic ft within the Grand Wagoneer. Fold down the second row, and the whole house turns into 116.7 cubic ft within the Wagoneer or 94.2 cubic ft Grand Wagoneer. These are gargantuan storage capacities.
Pricing, Trims, & Buyer Expertise
Pricing ranges drastically relying on the mannequin and trim, spanning from mainstream territory properly into the luxurious section. A Wagoneer Sequence I (late availability) begins at $57,995 (plus a $2,000 vacation spot cost), which is roughly $7,000 greater than the most cost effective GMC Yukon. The Sequence II jumps to $67,995 with 2WD ($70,995 with 4WD), whereas the top-range Sequence III begins at $72,995 with 2WD ($75,995 with 4WD). After all, numerous choices can push the value up even larger.
The Grand Wagoneer is considerably dearer, beginning at $86,995 for the Sequence I, round $10,000 greater than a base Escalade or $7,000 greater than an Escalade ESV. Pricing begins at $93,995 for the Sequence II, $98,995 for the Obsidian trim, and $103,995 for the opulent Sequence III. These are luxurious costs that method European automotive ranges, however the Grand Wagoneer justifies it.
Buyer Expertise
Jeep could not justify charging six-figures for an SUV except it provided an applicable dealership expertise. That is the place the Wagoneer Consumer Service program comes into the image. Solely probably the most highly-rated Jeep dealerships could have the chance to promote the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, making certain that prospects obtain a luxurious expertise. Wagoneer Consumer Service consists of 5 years of normal upkeep (with oil modifications and tire rotations), 24/7 concierge help and roadside help, no-charge loaner autos, VIP occasions, free cleansing throughout providers, and automobile pickup/drop-off.
Verdict: An On the spot Luxurious Participant
Based mostly on our earlier expertise with the Ram 1500 Restricted, we knew Stellantis was able to constructing a luxurious SUV that might go toe-to-toe with the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer stay as much as our expectations. Jeep nailed every little thing it wanted to perform with these fashions. The interiors really feel class-leading with loads of house, the know-how is excellent, and the powertrains are aggressive. Jeep’s first foray into the luxurious section makes it really feel just like the model has been constructing autos like this for many years.
The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer immediately vault to the highest of our full-size SUV suggestions, with room to develop with future mannequin variants. We count on a extra environment friendly 4xe drivetrain sooner or later, a protracted wheelbase mannequin, and perhaps even a Hellcat-powered mannequin if we’re fortunate. Not solely would the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer make us rethink shopping for an Escalade or Navigator, we might take into account one over a BMW X7 or Mercedes-Benz GLS.