The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer Completely Fails in 1 Area, According to Consumer Reports
The market for full-size luxury SUVs is quite competitive these days. However, Jeep enthusiasts will find the automaker has a respectable entry in the segment. If you look at the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer, you’ll find a comfortable ride that gives you the power you’d expect from a Jeep. Still, there’s one area in which the Wagoneer needs a lot of work – and it’s an area that may have you thinking twice about opting for the latest edition.
Where the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer succeeds
According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer does a lot of things quite well. Based on the ladder frame construction of the Ram 1500, the Wagoneer houses a robust powertrain that will please full-sized truck fans. It comes with a 5.7-liter V8 engine that provides 392 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also comes with a cylinder-deactivation system that should save gas by running on four cylinders at points. Its independent rear suspension helps provide a smooth and stable ride.
Inside, the Wagoneer provides considerable comfort. There’s plenty of space in each row, including the third, which, in competing models, is usually too cramped for adults. There’s also plenty of cargo room and great visibility from most angles, thanks to large windows. Accessing the vehicle is easy given its large doors, tall roof, and grab handles. Additionally, the cabin is quiet while running regularly, which is impressive given the Wagoneer’s robust powertrain.
Wagoneer owners and passengers will also appreciate its well-crafted interior comprised of high-quality leather, stitched surfaces, and wood touches. The 10.1-inch touchscreen provides a variety of feature controls, along with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Depending on the trim, owners may also have access to a wireless charging pad, tri-zone climate controls, heated and cooled front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The big flaw in the Wagoneer
Truly, the Jeep Wagoneer dispels any misconception that full-sized vehicles can’t also be comfortable rides. However, unfortunately, the Wagoneer reinforces the reputation of full-sized vehicles for being gas guzzlers. Despite the cylinder deactivation system, the fuel economy for a 4WD Wagoneer is simply one of the worst in the segment.
If you buy one, you’re looking at a combined 15 mpg. That’s just 10 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway, according to CR. Those numbers are not only lower than the Wagoneer’s competition, but they also earned it the lowest possible Consumer Reports score in that category. Despite its comfort, a Jeep Wagoneer is not the kind of car one buys to trot out at local auto shows. No, it’s built for driving, towing, and light off-roading. Capable of hauling up to five tons and with a 4WD option, the Wagoneer is definitely meant for adventure.
Yet, with such poor fuel economy, adventure may need to be local. Or, the Wagoneer may be a good option for those who already have a fuel-efficient daily driver and are looking for an occasional use vehicle with excellent storage space.
Other 2022 Jeep Wagoneer challenges
The Jeep Wagoneer’s challenges aren’t limited to its fuel economy. As with many full-sized vehicles, braking is an issue. A full-sized vehicle will do more damage to another vehicle or a pedestrian in the event of a collision. Additionally, if another vehicle or pedestrian quickly moves or stops in front of a full-sized SUV, the chances of a serious accident are high.
The Wagoneer takes a long, long time to brake. To come to a complete stop after driving at 60 mph, the Jeep needs 149 and 163 feet on dry and wet surfaces, respectively. The Cadillac Escalade, which is comparable in size, needs 136 and 145 feet, respectively. Another challenge with the Wagoneer is that it is not especially agile. It’s hard to maneuver through tight corners. When you push it to do so, the electronic stability system will quickly reduce your speed, making it difficult to change lanes rapidly or handle narrow, winding roadways.
Despite these challenges, prospective buyers can find a lot to like about the Wagoneer, from its comfortable interior, muscular powertrain, and tech amenities. A hands-free power liftgate even comes standard across all trims. Still, the Wagoneer is probably not the best commuting vehicle, nor one built for super challenging terrain. However, it can be a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, spacious, and comfortable SUV.
