The new 440kW Jeep Wagoneer S electric SUV, the brand’s first global electric EV, will blend an upmarket design with strong performance. Among others it will take on the Tesla Model Y.
It launches first in North America, and then goes into Europe. Competition includes SQ6 e-tron, the next-gen EQC and BMW’s Neue Klasse X, along with RR’s electric Velar. The new SUV is Jeep’s second BEV, the first being the compact Avenger but it is the first to go global.
It will be the first time a Wagoneer badge launches in many markets too. It was first used in 1963 and is reserved for more premium models. Jeep is figuring a more premium design and better dynamics will help to grow sales in the important (for North America) Wrangler-sized SUV market.
Jeep CEO, Antonio Filosa, said the Wagoneer S will be global because it will appeal to family car buyers without being too big for European customers. He added it has the roominess of a vehicle a class above.
The launch version of the Wagoneer S features a dual-motor powertrain that generates a system total of 440kW and 700Nm.
It should skip to 100 from zip in under 3.5sec, making it even quicker than the previous sprint champ, the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. It also promises to be fractionally quicker than the Model Y Performance.
The Stellantis-developed motors are three-in-one units that combine the motor, gearing and electronics. They are mounted on each axle to offer all-wheel drive. Jeep’s SelecTerrain traction management system will also feature, with five drive modes including Snow and Sand modes. The front motor features wheel disconnects to reduce energy consumption at cruising speed.
The Wagoneer S utilises a new electric-only STLA Large platform, which was developed by Stellantis for a wide variety of applications. It is said to be 35 per cent stiffer compared with previous similarly sized Jeep SUV platforms. That also helps substantially in reducing NVH levels.
The model will launch with a 100kWh battery pack that should be good 500km of range. It uses a 400V architecture, and Jeep claims a 5-80 per cent charge time of 28 minutes.
Helping with range is a much smoother more streamlined body for enhanced aerodynamics (a figure of 0.29 is claimed, the lowest yet from the brand). Contributing is a floating rear wing. A fresh seven-slot fascia includes ambient lighting elements and a light bar above.
The interior of the Wagoneer S aims to be premium and spacious. There’s a sporty twin-spoke steering wheel and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system. Jeep says its interactive screens are housed in a ‘wing’ sculpture. Included are a 12.3in digital driver display, a 12.3in central touchscreen and a 10.25in passenger screen. However, it is up to the driver how much technology is used; everything within reason can be turned off.
At the rear is a substantial 866L boot. Key touch points feature scratchproof and fingerprint-resistant finishes. Recycled materials feature in the seat covers and instrument panel.
While it will launch with a twin-motor powertrain, the line-up will grow in the future, encompassing a range-maximising single-motor version and possibly other performance models.
Whether or not a petrol-electric version of the Wagoneer S sees the light of day is not yet clear. The Wagoneer S launches in Europe early in 2026 so isn’t expected here until after that.
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