Jeep is an auto manufacturer capable of making waves with virtually any announcement. You can imagine how many SUV enthusiasts perked up upon finding out the brand was bringing back the Wagoneer after decades — except with some major upgrades in terms of luxury and technology.
The starting MSRP for the 2022 Wagoneer, a cool $68,590, may surprise even the most seasoned Jeep fan. You may find yourself wondering things like: Well, what do drivers really get for that price? What makes this SUV special, anyway?
Curious about what the new Jeep Wagoneer brings to the table? Here’s more on experts are saying about this SUV.
Jeep Wagoneer: An Overview
Before you dive into what auto experts are saying about the Wagoneer, it helps to understand some of its most notable features and specifications.
The Wagoneer can transport up to eight people across three rows of leather seating. There is 179 cubic feet of passenger volume and a maximum of more than 116 cubic feet of cargo volume.
Under the hood, the Wagoneer features a 5.7-liter V8 engine capable of 392 horsepower at 5,600 RPM. Drivers looking to haul their favorite toys will be interested to find out the Wagoneer can tow up to 10,000 pounds.
As we mentioned earlier, the least expensive Jeep Wagoneer trim level — the Series II — starts just shy of $68,600 for a 4×2 drivetrain or $71,590 for the 4×4. The Series III starts at $73,590 for the 4×2 drivetrain or $76,590 for the 4×4 drivetrain.
These are the basic capabilities offered by the Wagoneer and how much it will cost drivers to get the keys. But what are industry experts saying about how this vehicle looks, feels and performs?
Jeep Wagoneer: Ratings Roundup
Not surprisingly, the Jeep Wagoneer caught the attention of some of the most trusted online review sites.
Car and Driver Rating: 8.5 out of 10
A generally positive verdict from the reviewer at Car and Driver called out the smooth ride, well-appointed cabin and availability of off-road modifications as Jeep Wagoneer bright spots.
According to this reviewer, the drawbacks were the high MSRP, sometimes clunky handling and odd exterior styling when viewed from certain vantage points.
Rod Sessions for J.D. Power
This independent expert called out the following strengths in his review:
- Large, comfortable seats
- 1-inch touchscreen equipped with Uconnect 5 infotainment
- Wireless phone charging
- Smooth towing of a 7,000-pound trailer
- Optional off-road-equipped suspension
Some of the potential challenges associated with purchasing the new Wagoneer included relatively low gas mileage — around 17 or 18 miles per gallon combined city/highway. Furthermore, the reviewer highlighted the $2,000 destination charge tacked onto all new Wagoneers.
Aaron Bragman for Cars.com
An independent expert for Cars.com gave the Wagoneer a nearly blemish-free review, acknowledging the substantial price while pointing out that many competitors fall into the same ballpark once you tack on the optional features it would require to make them nearly as comfortable or functional as the Wagoneer.
The comfort, style and technology options were at the top of this reviewer’s write up. The biggest issue this expert had with the Wagoneer was its tendency for a loud rumble through the cabin whenever the engine dropped down to using four cylinders. Otherwise, this writer was of the opinion the ride was generally quiet except when switching between cylinders in this fashion.
Like any vehicle on the market, the Jeep Wagoneer has its peaks and valleys — many of which have been caringly outlined by industry experts across various review blogs. If you’re considering the Wagoneer as a luxury SUV, it helps to read up on existing reviews so you know what to expect.
