Jeep Grand Wagoneer Concept Previews Truck-Based 2022 Model

After a long wait, the beloved Jeep Grand Wagoneer nameplate is back, albeit as a near-production concept vehicle.

Judging by what this “concept” shows us, the full-size premium SUV will be a promising offering when it enters production next year as a 2022 model. The new Grand Wagoneer is a tech-laden, plug-in hybrid concept that features the industry’s first passenger infotainment screen in an SUV.

The 10.25-inch screen allows occupants to watch media, browse the internet or find destinations and send them to the driver. The passenger-side screen is shielded from the driver by a privacy film on the glass, allowing them to focus on the 12.1-inch center console display and the 12.3-inch digital instrument panel instead. Additionally, there’s a 10.25-inch horizontal comfort touchscreen below the central display for controlling the seats and the four-zone climate control.

There are more screens inside the Grand Wagoneer than in the new S-Class, as second-row passengers also have three 10.1-inch displays at their disposal: one in front of each occupant and a third one housed on the center console located between the two captain’s chairs.

The tech-rich interior is powered by FCA’s all-new Uconnect 5 Android-based infotainment system, which brings operating speeds that are five times faster when compared to the previous generation.

Tech part aside, the interior is described by Jeep as “an ultra-premium upscale environment rich with Grand Wagoneer heritage”. The material mix found inside is interesting and includes onyx glass on the dashboard, sustainable raw aluminum on the dash, door speakers, shift knob, and vent surroundings, and 3D wood inlay on the dash, center console and door panels.

Additional interior appointments include a full suede headliner made of Dinamica, premium carpets made from Thrive fiber, and PUR upholstery for the seating, console, door and instrument panel surfaces.

For the first time in the nameplate’s history, the Grand Wagoneer offers three rows of seats accommodating seven passengers. The cabin features customizable ambient lighting, large glass windows for greenhouse-like views, as well as elements that pay tribute to the history of the Grand Wagoneer, such as the two-spoke steering wheel and ‘EST. 1963’ inscription on the outer edge of the instrument panel – a nod to the first model year of the original Grand Wagoneer.

Rounding out the interior highlights is the 23-speaker McIntosh audio system connected to a 24-channel amplifier. It’s the only vehicle audio system powered by the classic American luxury brand of high-end home audio systems.

Moving on to the exterior design, the Grand Wagoneer Concept is dominated by the wide Obsidian Black-accented grille where each of the seven slots features intricate lightweight latticework. The space above and between the slots is lit, as is the ‘Wagoneer’ lettering above the grille. Flanking the grille are bi-functional LED projector headlights cradled by genuine teak wood, with the front end also featuring LED fog lights next to the accented front tow hooks and an Obsidian Black aluminum skid plate.

Seen from the side, the Grand Wagoneer Concept looks really big and that becomes more apparent when learning that the multi-spoke wheels are 24 inches big. Raised aluminum letters with copper-side accents spell out “Grand Wagoneer” on the lower third of the front doors, while a U.S. flag flanks the aluminum letters.

Out back, the LED taillights are united by a thin illuminated strip while a subtle rear diffuser sits below the power tailgate. If you happen to see the Grand Wagoneer show car from above, you’ll notice the full-pane glass roof flanked by roof rails on both sides with teak wood supported by bronze latticework on each of the four loop openings.

Powering the Grand Wagoneer Concept is a “no-compromise” plug-in hybrid powertrain Jeep does not elaborate on. Given that the production model will be based on the Ram 1500’s platform, it’s reasonable to assume it’s the same PHEV system promised for the pickup truck. Jeep promises “greater torque and immediate engine response”, as well as more fun-to-drive experience on the road and more capability than ever off the road.

The automaker also says the 2022 Grand Wagoneer will boast class-leading capability courtesy of three available 4×4 systems and the renowned Quadra-Lift air suspension, as well as “premium driving dynamics” thanks to the independent front and rear suspension. The list of promises also includes unmatched towing capability, powerful performance, a new level of comfort and best-in-class overall passenger volume.

Production of the Grand Wagoneer and its mainstream sibling, the Wagoneer, will start in the second quarter of 2021 at FCA’s Warren, Michigan truck assembly plant in suburban Detroit.

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