Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins – AutomotiveRhythms
Jeep is entering an era of electrification with its first-ever Wagoneer S luxury adventure SUV. Featuring an all-battery-electric powertrain, the premium midsize EV is set for the global stage and aligns the 4×4 brand within the world of chargers and kilowatts. This offering now gives Jeep loyalists a choice between the traditional gasoline Wagoneer and the latest energy-saving and sporty SUV from the Stellantis family.
Also, don’t forget that you can get discounted new car pricing with a free quote through qualified local dealer partners.
In San Diego, CA I had the opportunity to test drive and evaluate the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition while gathering intimate details from Jeep brand executives, designers, and engineers. The S is sleeker, more aerodynamic, and smaller than its boxy Wagoneer ICE (internal combustion engine) sibling. Of course, with an EV, much more technology, digital interfaces, and software-based functionality are utilized than with an ICE automobile. Owners will also be happy with the e-SUV’s 170 plus standard safety and security features.
Jeep put us in the Launch Edition model, which features specially stylized 20” Gloss Black rims, a black roof, trapezoidal Jeep wheel arches, a reinterpreted seven-slot illuminated Jeep grille, a standard dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and contrasting black accents. Under the hood is a frunk with 3-cubic feet of storage. In the rear, the passthrough tailgate spoiler and separate window spoiler combine to enhance the Jeep with aero performance.
Though it’s quick with a 3.4-second 0 to 60 mph time, the e-SUV is still off-road capable, inheriting 80 years of legendary Jeep prowess. Specifically, its Selec-Terrain traction management system pairs full-time active 4WD with five drive modes — Auto, Sport, Eco, Snow, and Sand — to tackle any condition from wet pavement to muddy ruts. Behind the wheel, the e-SUV took off like startled house cats. There is something special about the instantaneous acceleration of all-electric torque. Handling is superb and Sport mode gives the vehicle an immediate jolt.
The Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition’s dual motor powertrain shares the same platform as the Dodge Charger Daytona and its Stellantis-designed electric drive modules (EDMs). Yet, in this case, the EDMs are tuned for off-roading and combine to output an impressive 600-horsepower and 617 lb.-ft. of torque. The battery platform lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity and balances weight distribution 50/50.
“The launch of the all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S marks a new chapter in the storied history of the Jeep brand,” stated Antonio Filosa, Chief Executive Officer, Jeep Brand. “Building upon nearly a century of innovation and design, this first global EV will introduce a whole new generation of owners to an experience that is distinctly Jeep and 100% electric in every way.”
Charging power and efficiency manifest from a 400-volt, 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack that produces 303 miles of range. A DC fast charging station can restore energy from 20-80% in just 23 minutes or 100 miles in 10 minutes if you don’t have time to spare. But most of your charging will be done at home utilizing a Level 2 charger. With your Wagoneer S purchase, Jeep offers a 48-amp Level 2 home charger or $600 worth of public charging credits through Free2move Charge, the 360-degree charging ecosystem from Stellantis. Unfortunately, there is no bidirectional charging, so if the electricity in your home goes out the vehicle will not be able to power it temporarily.
Paying homage to the Grand Wagoneer, the cockpit is athletic, comfortable, and intelligent. My testers featured Radar Red upholstery and front seat massaging capabilities. Global Black (dual-colored piping) is your other interior option. The dash unites 45” of seamlessly integrated screens such as the 12.3” center display and the 10.25” front passenger display, which engages with the Uconnect 5 operating system. The unique BEV-specific content, route guidance, and menus reduce or eliminate range anxiety. For example, TomTom Navigation with Dynamic Range Mapping tells you when and where to stop for a recharge along the destination route.
Antimicrobial Cabo Vinyl wraps the oddly shaped flat-bottom and flat-top steering wheel. New to Jeep are electronic door releases activated by a light thumb touch. The outstanding 19-speaker, 1,200-watt, and 12” subwoofer McIntosh premium audio system is at your disposal for entertainment. Additionally, Jeep experimented with recycled materials like synthetic sued and recycled aluminum to create a more earth-friendly cabin. And I can’t forget the 64-color ambient lighting that illuminates the cabin when the sun sets.
In dealers now and starting at $71,995 (including the $1,795 destination fee), the 2024 Wagoneer S Launch Edition currently qualifies for the Inflation Reduction Act Retail and Lease EV credits. Keep in mind that the new presidential administration may cut federal tax credits for EVs altogether. Other Wagoneer S models will launch at lower prices as Jeep plans to invest and introduce 3.2 billion dollars of new products in 2025. Additionally, Jeep automatically signs owners into the Jeep Wave loyalty program, full of perks such as 24/7 vehicle support and worry-free maintenance at no additional cost.
Are you ready for an electric Jeep for your next family adventure? If so, then put the 2024 Wagoneer S on your wish list. You may be pleasantly surprised.