by Michael Satterfield - 11/29/2023
We have a bit of a soft spot for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, as we own a classic, wood-clad, version that is the iconic inspiration for the new Grand Wagoneer, which promises a new generation the opportunity to make cherished memories in a luxury Jeep, even it it does lack the wood paneling.
The Grand Wagoneer is... Grand, from easy access to the third row to its claim as the widest SUV in its class, this behemoth leaves no room for compromise. The Grand Wagoneer L, with its extended wheelbase, boasts unparalleled passenger volume and second-row legroom, setting new standards in full-size comfort. Cargo becomes an afterthought with a capacious trunk that accommodates 775 to 1,192 liters, a feat unmatched in its segment. We road-tripped one last year to the SEMA show and it was by far the most comfortable way to haul three men and all their gear across the country while pulling a classic Wagoneer on the trailer. I also took a Wagoneer on my first duck-hunting trip in 2021 and again it was the perfect vehicle for transporting all the guys and gear, when it comes to comfort and space, it is hard to beat this big Jeep.
The Grand Wagoneer aspires to greatness, and rightfully so, but the weighty price tags cast a shadow on its ambitions. Our tester was just over $114,000, after all, this space and grandeur come at a cost. While Jeep has done a great job with the Grand Wagoneer, the options that consumers have once you get over that $100,000 is staggering, and most people we spoke to while driving the Jeep had a hard time processing the concept of a 'six-figure Jeep.'
Pricing aside, the Grand Wagoneer offers a sanctuary of comfort for both the driver and passengers. The opulence of the interior unfolds with plush, heated/cooled seats for front-row occupants, inviting relaxation. The lack of noise within the cabin, even at highway speeds, defies the Wagoneer's bulk, showcasing a meticulous job in soundproofing that Jeep has done. While it is silly, guests in the vehicle all enjoyed the relaxation mode with a crackling fireplace and ambient noise playing over the speakers, however, I don't know really outside of showing it to people when I would ever just be sitting in my vehicle watching a faux fireplace.
Beneath the hood, the Grand Wagoneer we find a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, boasting 420 horsepower. This mechanical marvel, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a choice of four-wheel drive systems, affirms the Grand Wagoneer's prowess, with a best-in-class towing capacity of up to 10,000 lbs.
The Grand Wagoneer is one of the largest vehicles we have tested all year, yet it wasn't hard to drive in the city thanks to all of the cameras and sensors, but even with them parking can be a bit of a challenge. When compared to other luxury SUVs we have tests from Chevrolet, Cadillac, and even Range Rover the Grand Wagoneer competes on every level.
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