Summary
- Stellantis, owner of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram, chose to wait before launching their first electric SUV, the Jeep Wagoneer S
- The Jeep Wagoneer S is the conglomerate’s first U.S.-market, mainstream EV, built on the STLA Large platform
- The interior of the Wagoneer S is polished and sophisticated, with various screens and high-quality features
- The driving experience of the Wagoneer S shows a lack of EV tuning and refinement, with jumpiness and unsmooth throttle responses
- Despite some impressive charging specs and range figures, the Wagoneer S faces stiff competition in a crowded market with more mature EV options
Article
Legacy automaker Stellantis, owner of Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram, has taken a cautious approach to entering the electric vehicle (EV) market with their first offering, the Jeep Wagoneer S. This decision was based on observing other brands making costly mistakes in the early stages of EV development. However, the Wagoneer S is a clear indication that moving slowly also carries its own risks, as it feels like a first attempt with plenty of lessons left to learn about going electric.
The Wagoneer S is a larger and more expensive EV compared to Jeep’s previous electric offering, the Avenger in Europe. Riding on the STLA Large platform shared with the Dodge Charger EV, the Wagoneer S marks the entry of Stellantis into the long-range EV segment in the US. Positioned as a luxury SUV, it is not designed for off-roading initially, with a focus on street performance and a premium interior reminiscent of models like the Cadillac Lyriq.
Powered by a 100.5-kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery, the Wagoneer S boasts a 400-volt architecture and offers a range of “over 300 miles.” Equipped with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive powertrain generating 600 horsepower and 617 lb-ft of torque, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds. Despite impressive charging specs and range, the driving experience of the Wagoneer S reveals the lack of refinement in throttle mapping, regenerative braking, and suspension tuning.
The interior of the Wagoneer S is a highlight, featuring a sophisticated design with multiple digital displays and high-quality materials. However, issues like a finicky climate control screen, complicated infotainment system, and sensitivity of the throttle pedal detract from the overall user experience. While Stellantis has made progress in certain aspects like interior design and charging capabilities, the driving dynamics and overall performance of the Wagoneer S indicate areas for improvement.
Critiques of the Wagoneer S include its unrefined driving behavior, jumpy throttle response, and artificial steering feel. The suspension tuning results in a bumpy ride quality on urban roads and struggles to contain body motions in cornering. Challenges with regenerative braking blending and lack of sophisticated software features like route planning further highlight the need for advancements in the vehicle’s overall performance and functionality.
In a market filled with mature and established EV options, the Jeep Wagoneer S serves as a testament to the learning curve that legacy automakers must navigate when transitioning to electric mobility. While the Wagoneer S may appeal to Jeep enthusiasts and those new to EVs for its interior luxury and technology, it falls short when compared to more refined and experienced competitors. Stellantis acknowledges the lessons it still needs to learn in developing compelling EVs, positioning the Wagoneer S as a stepping stone towards future advancements in electric vehicle technology.
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