Ep 18. Jeep Grand Wagoneer

In season 41 episode 18 of MotorWeek, viewers are taken for a ride in the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, a vehicle that has been an icon of American motoring since the early 1960s. This full-size SUV has undergone a complete redesign for its 2022 model year iteration, with a focus on luxury and modern technology.

The episode begins with a brief history of the Grand Wagoneer, which first debuted in 1963 as a station wagon with four-wheel drive. Over the years, the vehicle evolved into a spacious, rugged SUV that was favored by families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. After being out of production for nearly 30 years, Jeep brought the Grand Wagoneer back to life in 2022.

Viewers are then introduced to the 2022 Grand Wagoneer, which is billed as a premium SUV that can rival the likes of the Cadillac Escalade and the Lincoln Navigator. The vehicle is available in two trim levels: the Grand Wagoneer and the Wagoneer, with the former being the more upscale option.

The exterior of the Grand Wagoneer is eye-catching, with a bold and sophisticated design that includes a distinctive seven-slot grille, LED lighting, and chrome accents. The vehicle sits on 20-inch wheels as standard, with 22-inch wheels available on higher trims. The Grand Wagoneer also offers an array of color options to choose from, including a unique “Obsidian” shade that features a blacked-out exterior.

Inside, the Grand Wagoneer impresses with its attention to detail and luxurious appointments. The vehicle can seat up to eight passengers comfortably, with plenty of room for cargo. The cabin is lined with premium materials, including quilted leather seats, real wood accents, and brushed metal detailing. The dashboard is dominated by a massive 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, which is paired with a smaller 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The system is intuitive and responsive, and offers features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a premium audio system.

Under the hood, the Grand Wagoneer comes equipped with a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine that delivers a robust 471 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and comes with four-wheel drive as standard. The vehicle also offers advanced driving aids like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

After taking the Grand Wagoneer out for a spin, the MotorWeek team returns to the studio to discuss the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses. They note that the Grand Wagoneer is indeed a true luxury SUV that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. They also praise the vehicle's advanced technology and safety features. However, they express some concern over the vehicle's price tag, which starts at around $88,000 for the Grand Wagoneer and $68,000 for the Wagoneer.

Overall, the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a top-of-the-line SUV that impresses with its style, comfort, and technology. It's a vehicle that is sure to appeal to those who demand the best from their vehicles, even at a premium price.