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2022 Jeep Wagoneer

Posted on Mar 31, 2022 in AUTO REVIEW

absolutely AUTO REVIEW | By Steve Kursar –

The introduction of the three-row 2022 Wagoneer marks the rebirth of an iconic Jeep nameplate.  Last seen in dealer showrooms back in 1994, the new Wagoneer is far more luxurious than any of its predecessors.  The newest Wagoneer is destined to be the first in what is billed as a premium extension of the Jeep brand.  The Wagoneer will still safely take you off-road, but you’ll just do it swathed in luxury.

The very first Wagoneer debuted back in late 1962 as one of the very first full-size SUVs on the market, although back then we called them station wagons. They were tough body-on-frame vehicles that are highly sought after in today’s market.  The ones most prized were clad in wood trim, similar to Ford’s Country Squire station wagons. Although the Wagoneer nameplate disappeared for almost twenty years, Jeep felt the call to bring it back into the lineup as a near-luxury SUV.

A base 2022 Wagoneer comes with an MSRP price tag of $58,845 and is powered by a 392 hp, 5.7 liter Hemi engine.  Mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, the Wagoneer’s EPA estimated fuel economy numbers are 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.  All the trims are available in either two or four wheel drive.

The exterior design cues harken back to that original early 1960’s Wagoneer so the new version has a familiar look. And, like the original, this is a true body-on-frame SUV so it’s tough enough to take what the outdoors can give it. Three different 4×4 systems are available that include an active low range and rear electronic limited slip differential, the Selec-Terrain traction management system that you can switch on the fly, and the Quadra-Lift air suspension that delivers a smooth ride and up to 10 inches of ground clearance.  You can confidently forge up to 24 inches of water.

The interior is what you’d expect from a luxury SUV with leather seating standard and loads of leg room, especially for tall passengers.  Available with the Wagoneer’s highest trim is the McIntosh MX950 Entertainment System, a custom-tuned 19-speaker system, including a 10-inch subwoofer, and powered by a 17-channel 950-watt amplifier. It can get loud.

And, if you need an even larger, and more luxurious option, check out the new 2022 Grand Wagoneer that is available at a base MSRP of $88,440.  Welcome back Wagoneer!