Jeep’s re-entry into the full-size SUV market with the 2022 Wagoneer is a bold move, targeting the luxury segment dominated by brands like Cadillac and Lincoln. As a seasoned auto repair expert, I’ve taken a close look at this vehicle, moving beyond the initial hype to offer a practical perspective for potential owners, especially those considering long-term ownership and maintenance. The Wagoneer aims to be a halo vehicle, attracting buyers with its size, features, and promised luxury. But does it live up to expectations, and more importantly, will it hold up over time?
The original Wagoneer, last seen in 1991, was a pioneering SUV. This new iteration is massive, no doubt about it. At nearly 215 inches long and riding on a 123-inch wheelbase, the 2022 Wagoneer is built for space and presence. It’s designed to haul, with an eight-person capacity (or seven with optional second-row captain’s chairs) and substantial cargo room even with all rows in use. This is a genuine full-size SUV, offering adult-friendly third-row seating, a feature often lacking in smaller, so-called 3-row SUVs.
Under the hood, the Wagoneer packs a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine, producing 392 horsepower. This provides ample power for daily driving and, crucially, for towing – up to 10,000 pounds. For those seeking even more power, the Grand Wagoneer offers a 6.4-liter V8 with 471 horsepower. However, the fuel economy is where reality hits. The standard Wagoneer is EPA-rated at 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. During a week-long test, the observed fuel economy was around 15.3 mpg, aligning closely with the trip computer’s 16 mpg, with about half the driving on highways. Considering the current fuel prices, this is a significant factor for owners to consider.
The Wagoneer incorporates an eTorque 48-volt mild hybrid system, cylinder deactivation, and variable cam timing, all aimed at improving fuel efficiency. Despite these technologies, the MPG remains low. A full hybrid system might have been a more effective approach for a vehicle of this size, but currently, it’s not an option. From a repair standpoint, these mild hybrid systems add complexity, and while they can offer marginal fuel savings, their long-term reliability and repair costs need to be considered.
Off-road capability is part of Jeep’s DNA, and the Wagoneer is claimed to be able to ford up to two feet of water. It features five traction settings: Auto, Sport, Sand/Mud, Rock, and Snow, selectable via a console toggle. While not yet Trail Rated, the Wagoneer aims to provide decent off-road performance for a vehicle of its class.
However, during testing, some glitches emerged, raising concerns about electronic reliability. In snowy conditions, the 4WD system reportedly disabled itself after a short period in Snow mode, only to function normally the next day. Another issue involved the climate control system, failing to produce heat despite being set at a comfortable temperature, requiring manual adjustments to the infotainment screen to restore functionality. These intermittent electronic issues, especially in critical systems like 4WD and heating, are red flags. From a repair perspective, diagnosing and fixing such sporadic electronic faults can be time-consuming and potentially costly.
Aesthetically, the front of the Wagoneer is recognizably Jeep, featuring the iconic seven-slot grille. However, the side and rear design is more generic, described as a “block of steel” on wheels. The design is undoubtedly imposing, but perhaps lacks the visual flair expected in the luxury SUV segment.
Inside, the Wagoneer offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, reminiscent of a “leather chair filled den on wheels.” Headroom and legroom are abundant, thanks to the boxy roofline. Seats are well-shaped and comfortable, with heated and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. These are premium features that enhance comfort, especially in colder climates.
However, a significant ergonomic drawback is the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions. Like many modern vehicles, the Wagoneer integrates climate controls, heated seats, and drive mode settings into the infotainment system. These settings reset every time the engine is turned off, requiring drivers to readjust them upon each restart. While seemingly a minor inconvenience, this can become irritating, particularly in a vehicle at this price point. Furthermore, operating touchscreen controls for heated seats or defrosters while wearing gloves is challenging, a clear oversight for a vehicle intended for use in varied climates. The instrument panel screen, with its five panes of information, is also described as overly complex and difficult to customize while driving, potentially distracting the driver.
On the positive side, the Wagoneer boasts a large touchscreen, a panoramic sunroof with an additional smaller sunroof for the third row, and a premium 950-watt McIntosh stereo system with 19 speakers, including 3D surround sound, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The cabin is remarkably quiet, minimizing wind and tire noise. Convenience features include a power liftgate, power-adjustable pedals, and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Standard safety equipment is comprehensive, including emergency braking, a 360-degree camera, blind-spot warning, smart cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. However, the lane-keeping assist system was also reported to be overly sensitive, issuing warnings even when hands were on the wheel.
Practicality is enhanced by a wireless phone charger, manual side window sunshades for the second row, and sliding second-row seats for adjustable passenger and cargo space. The Wagoneer offers eight standard USB ports, with up to 11 available with the optional rear-seat entertainment package.
Pricing for the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer starts at $72,995 for the Series II model (including delivery and 4-wheel drive as tested), with the test vehicle reaching $82,925 with options. A rear-drive Series I model is positioned as the entry point, and a higher-end Series III model with air suspension and advanced 4WD is also available. These prices place the Wagoneer in direct competition with the GMC Yukon Denali, Lincoln Navigator, and Cadillac Escalade.
Repair Expert’s Verdict:
Hits:
- Spaciousness and Comfort: Ample room for passengers and cargo, comfortable seating, and a luxurious interior.
- Powerful V8 Engine: Strong performance and substantial towing capability with the 5.7L HEMI V8.
- Off-Road Potential: Jeep DNA with off-road modes and water fording capability.
- Loaded with Features: Panoramic sunroof, premium sound system, advanced safety tech, and numerous USB ports.
- Quiet Cabin: Minimal wind and tire noise for a relaxed driving experience.
Misses:
- Questionable Fuel Economy: Low MPG despite mild hybrid system, a significant running cost.
- Electronic Glitches: Reported issues with 4WD and climate control system reliability.
- Ergonomic Issues: Over-reliance on touchscreen controls, resetting settings upon restart, complex instrument panel.
- Generic Styling: Exterior design lacks distinctiveness compared to luxury rivals.
- Price Point: While competitive, the high price tag warrants flawless execution and reliability, which is currently questionable based on reported glitches.
Conclusion:
The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer is a strong contender in the full-size luxury SUV segment, offering impressive space, power, and features. However, the reported electronic glitches and ergonomic shortcomings raise concerns about long-term reliability and user-friendliness. From a repair expert’s perspective, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues. While the Wagoneer offers a lot, especially for those prioritizing space and towing capacity, careful consideration of its electronic complexity and real-world fuel economy is essential before making a purchase. Long-term reliability data will be crucial in determining if the Wagoneer can truly compete with established luxury SUV players.
