Jeep has launched its first battery-electric automobile for the U.S. market, the 2024 Wagoneer S, boasting a exceptional vary of 303 miles and a beginning value of $71,995. This new mannequin is being touted because the quickest Jeep ever, outpacing even the Hemi Hellcat in efficiency. It positively positions itself as a competitor to autos just like the Tesla Mannequin Y and Cadillac Lyriq, however the query stays: is it actually a Jeep?
The Wagoneer S is now out there at dealerships, and it arrives at a second that feels each well timed and overdue. This massive, five-seat electrical crossover is aimed on the premium phase of the EV market; the Launch Version we examined is available in at $72,000 together with vacation spot charges. Nonetheless, solely about 4,000 models for the 2024 mannequin 12 months have been produced, all within the high-spec Launch Version trim. Particulars relating to the 2025 mannequin lineup, which might characteristic an off-road centered Trailhawk and extra reasonably priced variants, are anticipated to be introduced quickly.
Throughout our take a look at drive, we discovered the electrical Wagoneer to be a succesful and pleasant automobile, nevertheless it raised questions on its id as a Jeep. Stellantis, the smallest of the Detroit automakers, has by no means efficiently marketed a quantity electrical automobile till now, and the Wagoneer S represents a major step in that path.
Along with the Wagoneer S, Dodge has launched the Charger Daytona, a controversial electrical efficiency automobile. The Wagoneer S ought to discover its footing extra simply out there, because it competes with established electrical SUVs such because the Cadillac Lyriq and Tesla Mannequin Y, alongside different overseas fashions just like the Audi Q6 e-tron, BMW iX, and Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV.
Throughout a drive round Carlsbad, California, famend for its EV-friendly surroundings, we took the Wagoneer S for a take a look at drive. Its design displays a transition for Jeep. The acquainted seven-slot grille has been up to date to a sleeker look that includes LED lights, whereas the aspect profile retains some Jeep DNA, marked by the mannequin’s title inscribed on the entrance doorways. Nonetheless, the rear design appears to lose the standard Jeep id, making it troublesome to tell apart from different manufacturers till you see the badge.
Inside, the Wagoneer S exudes a premium really feel with high-quality supplies and a number of digital shows, however it might not resonate as clearly with Jeep’s conventional rugged picture. The cabin includes a assortment of screens for instrumentation and infotainment, together with a 12.3-inch middle touchscreen and a head-up show, though some controls might be perceived as too small for a automobile bearing the Jeep title.
As for efficiency, the Wagoneer S is extremely highly effective, with twin electrical motors producing 335 horsepower and reaching a 0-to-60 mph time of simply 3.4 seconds. The battery pack, at 100.5 kWh, permits for a formidable vary, particularly when outfitted with particular tires. Whereas our take a look at automobile confirmed a decrease beginning vary than anticipated resulting from earlier aggressive driving, estimates counsel effectivity of about 2.5 miles per kWh.
The automobile weighs round 5,667 kilos, which is noticeable throughout driving. Even so, the ability is enough for fast, responsive acceleration. It primarily operates in rear-wheel drive however can redistribute energy for traction as wanted. The driving modes permit for various experiences, although Jeep’s regenerative braking system left some room for enchancment.
Jeep’s new technique beneath senior vp Bob Broderdorf goals to draw three most important segments of potential consumers: present house owners of Jeep’s plug-in hybrid fashions, diehard Jeep fans who respect off-road capabilities, and customers excited about premium electrical SUVs from home manufacturers. The longer term introduction of a Trailhawk model of the Wagoneer S might additional improve its enchantment to off-road fans, alongside cheaper variants with a single-motor setup.
The Wagoneer S is constructed on the STLA Giant “multi-energy” platform and displays Jeep’s imaginative and prescient of integrating luxurious and electrical choices into its lineup. Whereas the electrical Wagoneer S stands out as a major participant within the EV market with its 303-mile vary, its success will depend on how effectively Jeep markets and sells it transferring ahead.
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