The first all-electric Jeep destined for North American audiences has been revealed. The Jeep Wagoneer S will feature fresh, streamlined looks and come to market later in the near future.
The Jeep brand is already an electrification champion, having brought to market plug-in hybrid versions of its Renegade, Compass, Wrangler, Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L SUVs, globally. The "4xe" branded models sell well, with Wrangler routinely atop the list as the best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in the United States.
In select markets, Jeep sells the Avenger small SUV, its first battery-electric model.
Jeep hasn't released much sold information about the SUV, opting to instead share images of the model.
"Stellantis has been a laggard in the EV race in the U.S. market, and the Jeep brand will play a considerable role in establishing the group as a viable player in the space," Paul Waatti, manager of industry analysis at AutoPacific told Newsweek.
"The Wagoneer S represents a significant advancement in Jeep's electrification journey, following the introduction of the 4xe plug-in hybrid models and a recent shift towards more premium products. A decidedly luxurious interior with high-end amenities matches its striking and elegant exterior design, suggesting a compelling new EV option."
The SUV will be built on the parent company Stellantis' STLA-Large platform, which was designed exclusively for battery-electric vehicle (BEV) use.
Wagoneer S is promised to deliver "impressive performance numbers" according to a press release distributed by the automaker.
Jeeps calls the interior "tech-focused" saying that it "is equally remarkable" when compared to the vehicle's performance and that it "radiates a seamless integration of art with technology".
In keeping with the upscale positioning of the Wagoneer brand, the Wagoneer S will offer premium technology and "meticulously crafted artisan details". In a nod to the common sustainability conversation that surrounds electric vehicle design, Jeep details in the press release that the interior of the SUV will have "mindful materials".
Wagoneer S drivers can expect to have a tailored "control center" to work with, which includes a Selec-Terrain drive mode selector and color-selectable ambient lighting which features at various points at the front of the vehicle's cabin. A 19-speaker Macintosh sound system will be available.
Images provided by Jeep show a three-screen dashboard, with a fully digital instrument cluster, wide infotainment screen, and a screen in front of the front passenger. Another screen, below the centrally-located infotainment screen appears to replace traditional buttons and toggle switches, opting for touchscreen control of climate control functions.
On the console, drivers will find the "ignition" on/off button, rotary shifter, hill descent control button and cup holders. Based on steering wheel buttons, it looks like Jeep will offer Wagoneer with the automaker's lane centering and adaptive cruise control technology.
Above passengers is a dual-pane sunroof.
"Many EVs are already vying for luxury EV crossover buyers in the burgeoning EV market, and that list is only growing. Jeep, one of the most aspirational brands in the industry, has an opportunity to stand out from the crowd with the Wagoneer S as its first EV for the U.S. market with the right pricing and launch execution," said Waatti.
Additional information regarding pricing, delivery timing and incentives is forthcoming, pending the model's official reveal.
About the writer
Eileen Falkenberg-Hull leads the Autos team at Newsweek. She has written extensively about the auto industry for U.S. News & ... Read more
