Produced by Jeep, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are full-size SUVs. Both models were launched in March 2021, and instead of featuring the traditional Jeep badge, they are marketed as “Wagoneer by Jeep”. These vehicles are touted as the “premium extension” of the Jeep brand. The production of the 2022 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer began in the first half of 2021 at Warren Truck Assembly.
The model line includes four sub-models: the base version Wagoneer, the luxury trim Grand Wagoneer, and the extended wheelbase versions, Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L.
History
The journey to redesign the Wagoneer has been ongoing since the mid-1990s. In January 2011, Sergio Marchionne, then CEO of Fiat S.p.A. and later Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), announced the relaunch of “Grand Wagoneer” as a new SUV, sharing the same platform with the Jeep Cherokee and Dodge Durango.
However, in September 2013, Chrysler delayed the production until 2015 to allow the Dodge Durango to establish its market presence. Meanwhile, the Grand Wagoneer concept was used as a blueprint for a full-size luxury SUV that would compete against the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.
In June 2015, FCA announced plans to unveil a new version of the full-sized Grand Wagoneer. However, production was delayed again in August 2015, and the vehicle was scheduled to be built at Warren Truck Assembly.
Teaser photos of the Grand Wagoneer were released by Jeep on October 18, 2016, hinting it would be based on the third-generation Durango and launched as a 2019 model. However, the plan was postponed yet again in March 2017.
In December 2019, spy shots of a Wagoneer being tested by FCA emerged, featuring a Ram 1500 body on frame SUV. The start of production was delayed by at least three months due to the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, and the full-size version was expected to debut in early 2021 as a 2022 model.
Jeep unveiled the Grand Wagoneer concept on September 3, 2020, which gave a glimpse into the upcoming Grand Wagoneer set to hit the market in 2021. This SUV is characterized by a large silhouette, oblong headlights, and a multi-hole grille. Notably, Jeep branding is absent from the body and interior, replaced with badges bearing the model name. Production models of the Wagoneer were finally revealed on March 11, 2021. The first models were expected to ship later that year, with widespread dealership availability starting in October 2021.
Design And Layout
The Wagoneer model comes standard with rear-wheel drive, although there’s an option to upgrade to four-wheel drive. In contrast, the Grand Wagoneer features standard four-wheel drive. Notably, the selection now includes the Quadra-Trac full-time four-wheel-drive system.
Jeep Wagoneer WS Features
The Wagoneer comes equipped with the fifth-generation UConnect 5 infotainment suite, featuring a 10.1″ high-resolution display, while the Grand Wagoneer boasts a larger 12″ display.
The system includes Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, SiriusXM Satellite Radio with 360L, SiriusXM Travel Link services and the SiriusXM-powered UConnect Guardian. An optional integrated virtual assistant is also available.
For premium sound quality, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer offer two McIntosh audio systems. One features a 19-speaker setup with a 950-watt amplifier and 10″ subwoofer. The other, more advanced option, comes with a 23-speaker McIntosh system, complete with a 1,375-watt amplifier and 12″ subwoofer.
The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer come standard with multiple screens, including a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen infotainment system. There’s also an interactive front passenger touchscreen display, cleverly integrated into the dashboard’s woodgrain finish.
This screen allows the passenger to wirelessly stream music via Bluetooth, view the GPS navigation map, and send directions directly to the central touchscreen display. To ensure the driver isn’t distracted, the display has a special coating that only allows the passenger to view it.
Several models also boast a touchscreen control panel for the rear seat climate controls, along with a dual-screen rear seat entertainment system. This system lets rear passengers connect their devices via HDMI or Bluetooth, access the internet, enjoy entertainment from Amazon, and play integrated games on the seatback-mounted displays.
Trim Levels
There are four trim levels available for the Wagoneer: Series I, Series II, Carbide, and Series III. On the other hand, the Grand Wagoneer is offered in five trims: Series I, Series II, Obsidian, Series III, and Series III Obsidian. Each of these trim levels can be paired with either the Standard or Long Wheelbase “L.”
Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L
During the 2022 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), Jeep introduced the extended-length 2023 Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L. These models are a foot longer than the standard Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. The trim levels and features are anticipated to be identical to those of the regular Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
However, both the extended models will come with the new 3.0-liter “Stellantis Hurricane engine,” a twin-turbo inline-6 (I6) gasoline engine. The Wagoneer L models will use the standard output version of this engine, which generates 420 horsepower (313 kW; 426 PS) and 468 lb⋅ft (635 N/m; 65 kg/m) of torque. On the other hand, the Grand Wagoneer L models will house the high-output variant of the “Hurricane” engine, delivering 510 horsepower (380 kW; 517 PS) and 500 lb/ft (678 Nm; 69 kg/m) of torque.
Powertrains
The Jeep Wagoneer WS offers a variety of powertrains to cater to different driver preferences. The first option is a 5.7 L (350 cu in) Hemi eTorque V8 engine. This engine combines both performance and efficiency, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.
The engine is paired with an 8-speed TorqueFlite 8HP75 automatic transmission. This advanced transmission system ensures seamless gear shifting, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
For those who prefer more power, there’s the 6.4 L (390 cu in) Hemi V8 engine. This robust engine delivers exceptional power and torque, making it suitable for drivers who demand high performance from their vehicles.
Lastly, there’s the 3.0 L (180 cu in) Hurricane turbo I6 engine. This engine offers a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for daily commuting or long-distance travel.
See more Jeep Wagoneer information and reviews here at TC Chrysler Jeep