2022 Jeep Wagoneer – Test Drive
Big Size, Big Class, Big Everything
The Wagoneer is Jeep’s first and ambitious attempt in building a luxury 7-seater full size passenger SUV. Jeep has also taken advantage of its technical prowess from the Stelantis group by fitting the Wagoneer with a proper 4×4 powertrain, innovative electronics and a mighty V8 engine capable of towing up to 10,000 lbs. While Jeep isn’t classified as a luxury brand, the Wagoneer is plenty premium that rightfully stacks up against the likes of the Infiniti QX80, Lincoln Navigator and the infamous Cadillac Escalade.
Common to American brands, the Wagoneer offers up to 9 trims with the starting MSRP price of $60,995 for the Series I base model and the highest Series III Premium trim at $81,340. The Series II Premium trim offers a good balance point in both price, functionality and features with larger 22″ wheels, a unique secondary infotainment display for the front side passenger, dual 2nd row entertainment screen, a panoramic sunroof, self parking and a 360 degree exterior view camera system.
| Series I | $60,996 |
| Series 1 Premium | $63,840 |
| Series 1 Carbide | $66,490 |
| Series II | $70,995 |
| Series II Premium | $73,840 |
| Series II Carbide | $75,190 |
| Series III | $75,995 |
| Series III Carbide | $80,190 |
| Series III Premium | $81,340 |
Powertrain
All Wagoneer models are powered by a 5.7L V8 producing 392 horsepower with an available 48-volt mild-hybrid system and cylinder-deactivation system to improve fuel economy. Rear wheel drive is standard but can be upgraded to a 4×4 powertrain to unlock its off-roading capability.
Available on our Series III test model comes equipped with an upgraded 6.4L engine and adjustable air suspension that can be raised by up to 3.6″ of additional ground clearance. Towing capacity is rated at 10,000 lbs.
As expected, fuel economy is not great with the V8 engine getting just 16 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway in a rear-wheel drive configuration. The 4×4 powertrain is expected to drop further with 15 and 20 mpg on city and highway respectively.
Interior and Tech
Cabin space in the Jeep Wagoneer is very spacious and ultra luxurious that’s also a step up from the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Second row can be configured with a more ideal two captain’s seat for better comfort. Cargo space is plenty thanks to its full-size truck platform. Third row seating provide adequate legroom for full-size passengers and can be electronically folded down for additional cargo space via a push button located in the trunk space.
A 10.1″ infotainment touch screen runs on one of the industry’s best UConnect 5 software that’s both slick and responsive. The 10.3″ all-digital instrument cluster is also very well design and ultra crisp. Available on our Series III tester model comes equipped with an upgraded high-end Mcintosh 19-speaker sound system. Both Android Auto and Apple Carplay are supported.
Fitted with our Series III tester model is also an electronic step gate that extends and retracts for easier access to and from the vehicle. Front seats also feature a unique massaging feature that are also both be heated and ventilated.
Test Drive and Final Thoughts
Despite its heavy and large form factor, the upgraded 5.7L V8 engine and 4×4 powertrain shows no hesitation in power delivery in both city and highway driving. The premium feel and quietness of the cabin space remains one of the highlights of the Jeep Wagoneer. Plenty of innovative electronics are fitted to keep the Wagoneer up to date such as dual 2nd row entertainment screens with dedicated USB connectivity and climate controls as well.
The Jeep Wagoneer is an exceptional car with plenty of room and practicality that nearly hits every box a car should can offer. It just needs to be electric to relive sorrow at the fuel pumps.
Specifications
- Vehicle : 2022 Jeep Wagoneer
- Model : Series III
- Vehicle Type : Full-Size Crossover
- Seating Capacity :2+2+3
- Engine : 5.7L V8 (As Tested)
- Transmission : 8-Speed Automatic
- Price as tested: $100,453
Pros
- Premium luxury design and construction inside out
- V8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission is powerful and smooth
- Innovative electronics, technology and comfort
- Large cargo capacity
- Off road 4×4 capability available
- high 10,000 lbs towing capacity
Cons
- V8 engine is not ideal for today’s fuel prices
- Bulky and heavy and may not be practical for everyday use.