14Oct
What is the best large SUV for the 2023 and 2024 model year? The US News & World Report has given that honor to the 2023 Jeep Wagoneer, which isn’t significantly different from the 2024 Wagoneer. For this same no.1 position in the full-size SUV class, JD Power named the Chevrolet Tahoe, the KBB chose Ford Expedition, and TrueCars chose the Toyota Sequoia, and so on. So, what’s so special about the new Jeep Wagoneer?
According to USN&WR, “This 2023 Wagoneer review combines 17 professional reviews with concrete data like performance specs, fuel economy estimates, and cargo space dimensions and incorporates applicable research for all models in this generation, which launched in 2022.” We chose the Jeep Wagoneer over the Ford Expedition because the Expedition falls slightly behind the Wagoneer in most aspects.
For example, while it approaches the Wagoneer's towing capacity, passenger and cargo space, and tech features, it delivers a stiffer ride and less plush interior. However, the Expedition has two notable advantages: a lower starting price and superior handling. Without further ado, below are the best features of the 2023/24 Jeep Wagoneer.
Related Reading: Meet The All-New 2024 Ford Explorer Electric
Best-In-Class Accommodations
The 2023 model year’s highlight is the newly introduced longer Wagoneer L, debuting a 12-inch increase in length and a 7-inch longer wheelbase compared to the standard Wagoneer. While both versions offer similar seating space in all three rows, the Wagoneer L stands out with a spacious 44.2 cubic feet of cargo room in the rear, which is nearly 16 cubic feet more than the standard Wagoneer.
For larger families seeking adventure, both the Wagoneer and the Wagoneer L can accommodate plenty of family stuff and provide generous seating across all three rows. If that's not enough, both models can tow up to 10,000 pounds with the addition of the Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package.
Impressive Towing Capacity
The Wagoneer L demonstrates impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum capacity of 10,000 pounds for RWD and 9,850 pounds for 4WD. This outperforms the Grand Wagoneer, which has a maximum towing capacity of 9,450 pounds.
While Jeep hasn't disclosed the towing capacity for the standard-wheelbase Wagoneer, we anticipate that the figures will see a slight increase over last year's maximum of 10,000 pounds.
Class-Leading Cargo Volume
The Wagoneer L truly shines in terms of cargo space, offering nearly 16 cubic feet more than the standard Wagoneer. The L boasts 44.2 cubic feet of cargo room behind the rear seats, 88.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and a remarkable 130.9 cubic feet behind the front seats. In comparison, the standard Wagoneer provides 27.4, 70.8, and 116.7 cubic feet in the respective areas.
To put it in context with its rivals, the Chevy Tahoe ranges from 22.5 to 122.9 cubic feet of cargo space, while the full-length Suburban extends from 41.5 to 144.7 cubic feet. Notably, the Wagoneer L's extended length allows it to accommodate a 4x8 sheet of plywood in the rear when both rows of seats are folded down.
The Wagoneer’s interior speaks volumes about luxury, with leather seating surfaces as standard even at the base level, and higher trims offering even better quality. Additionally, eight-way power-adjustable front seats are standard, complete with memory settings on the driver's side. Notably, the 2023 Wagoneer L introduced two 1.8-liter storage areas for the convenience of third-row passengers.
Class-Leading Powerplants And Performance
Though the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer is essentially the same as the previous year's offering belonging to the 4th-gen of 2022, the 2024 model promises something new and big. We’re talking about the Hemi V8 engines available in previous models. Apparently, Jeep is phasing out the V8.
Car and Driver cited documents suggesting both the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will exclusively feature the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine, essentially retiring the 5.7-liter and 6.4-liter V8. Said document is – we think – a dealership pricing database showing all “24 Wagoneer models equipped with the 3.0-liter inline-six.
Going by these developments, the Wagoneer and Wagoneer L are now powered by a single engine, the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six known as the Hurricane Twin Turbo. This engine generates an impressive 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque, a significant update over the previous 5.7-liter V8, delivering 392 hp and 404 lb-ft of torque.
An independent speed test saw the new engine shave more than two seconds off the V8-powered Wagoneer's 0-60 time, achieving an impressive 5.5 seconds.
Superior Off-Road Drivetrain
Both Wagoneer and Wagoneer L models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the choice of either a standard RWD setup or one of three available 4WD systems. The entry-level Quadra-Trac I system offers full-time 4WD and shifts torque to the wheel with the most traction.
Quadra-Trac II, a more advanced system, utilizes a two-speed transfer case to distribute up to 100 percent of torque to a single wheel and comes standard on the Wagoneer Series III.
For those seeking the ultimate 4WD capability, the Wagoneer offers the Quadra-Drive II system, which includes a rear electronic limited-slip differential in addition to the features of the Quadra-Trac II. This advanced system is available on the Wagoneer Series II and III.
There’s also the Wagoneer’s Quadra-Lift Air Suspension. Part of the optional Convenience Group, this system replaces traditional springs and shocks with air springs, enabling the Wagoneer to be adjusted for off-roading or lowered for improved aerodynamics and easier entry and exit.
A Winning Interior
The 2023 Wagoneer and Wagoneer L designers’ attention to detail is immediately evident in the interior. Despite these large 3-row SUVs offering a plethora of features, the dashboard maintains an elegant and uncluttered appearance. We love the way it features numerous digital screens without sacrificing warmth on the altar of technology.
The standard seating configuration accommodates eight passengers, arranged in a 2-3-3 layout. Opting for optional captain's chairs in the second row increases comfort but reduces the occupant count to seven.
Generous headroom and legroom are consistent throughout all three rows. A 6-footer can comfortably occupy both the front and second rows, with the third row accommodating another 6-footer. Row two offers 42.7 inches of legroom, while row three provides 36.6 inches.
Related Reading: US News & World Report Names Mazda CX-30 The Top Subcompact SUV For 2023/24
Class-Leading Technology
Why don’t we start with the five user profiles? It means up to five people sharing the 2023/24 Jeep Wagoneer can load individual preferences for seating, heating, and audio settings into the SUV’s system.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on the Wagoneer’s infotainment system, complete with over-the-air updates, natural voice command recognition, up to 11 USB ports, and Wi-Fi connectivity for up to eight devices.
It also supports Amazon Alexa integration, offering versatile functions like ordering from Whole Foods and even supporting Amazon Fire TV, granting passengers access to apps, TV shows, and movies.
Standard across all new Wagoneer models is a 10.25-inch Digital Driver Information Display, customizable to display various types of information, including navigation. For a vehicle of the Jeep Wagoneer’s size, the optional ParkSense Automated Parking System self-parking feature for both parallel and perpendicular spaces adds a practical touch.
Best In Class Gas Tank Volume And Extended Driving Range
The 2023 Wagoneer L offers more than just extra cargo space; it boasts a significant advantage with a 30.5-gallon fuel tank, 4 gallons larger than the standard Wagoneer's. This results in an additional 80 miles of driving range.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2023 Wagoneer Series I, the sole V8 model, achieves EPA ratings of 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway/18 mpg combined (RWD) or 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway/17 mpg combined (4WD).
With the new Hurricane inline-6 engine, the 2023 Wagoneer demonstrates improved efficiency, delivering 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway/20 mpg combined (RWD) or 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway/19 mpg combined (4WD).
Meanwhile, the 2023 Wagoneer L, exclusively equipped with the 6-cylinder engine, achieves EPA ratings of 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway/20 mpg combined (RWD) or 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway/19 mpg combined (4WD).
Becoming A Separate Brand
Jeep is elevating the Wagoneer into its own distinct luxury brand. As part of this transformation, the company is committed to providing a premium purchasing experience. This includes the support of Wagoneer Ambassadors, available both online and at on-site dealerships, ensuring customers receive top-tier service.
Additionally, buyers can expect VIP treatment, featuring services like home deliveries, access to loaner vehicles, and the convenience of in-vehicle service scheduling. To further enhance the ownership experience, a worry-free package offers comprehensive maintenance coverage for standard Wagoneer models over five years.
This package includes five oil changes and five tire rotations. For Wagoneer lessees, a 3-year maintenance package covers three oil changes and three tire rotations.
The Jeep Wagoneer vs. Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Now, when we contrast the Jeep Wagoneer with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, it's apparent that the Grand Wagoneer represents a luxurious upgrade. It boasts a more opulent interior, an abundance of standard comfort and tech features, and four-wheel drive as standard.
Additionally, it offers exclusive features like massaging front seats and a night-vision camera. The primary drawback is the Grand Wagoneer's starting price, roughly $30,000 higher than the base Wagoneer. If your budget allows it, the Grand Wagoneer is a compelling option.
What’s Next With The Jeep Wagoneer?
Jeep has announced a Wagoneer EV for the 2024 model year, marking the brand’s first foray into the electric vehicle segment. The Wagoneer EV combines the timeless appeal of Jeep's gasoline-powered vehicles with futuristic features like a light-up grille, creating a uniquely modern yet familiar Jeep aesthetic.
Production is slated to commence in 2024, with further details to be unveiled closer to the SUV's debut. The 2024 Wagoneer EV is one of two electric SUVs bound for North American markets, the other being the Jeep Recon. Unlike the Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in-hybrid models, the Wagoneer EV is a purely battery-powered vehicle promising an estimated 400-mile range on a single charge.
Performance-wise, Jeep anticipates a robust 600-horsepower output, enabling the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds. Jeep has said it intends to have EVs make up 50% of its US sales by 2030.
Sources: US News & World Report, KBB, Jeep
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