Jeep introduces the Grand Wagoneer concept to take on premium SUVs

The Grand Wagoneer concept will go into production next year. Photos: Jeep

Jeep has revealed its concept all-new Grand Wagoneer that aims to add a premium level to the brand and take on the likes of Range Rover and BMW X5 in the USA.

The first Wagoneer was  launched in 1962 and was said to have created the premium SUV segment, with Jeep saying “its return allows us to expand to a much more premium arena with new levels of design detail and advanced safety and technology features”.

“Our new Grand Wagoneer Concept marks the first step in the rebirth of Wagoneer – a true and rare premium American icon,” said Christian Meunier, Global President of the Jeep brand – FCA.

“With the electrification of each Jeep nameplate coming in the next few years, and the reintroduction of Wagoneer, we are quickly expanding into new segments and more premium space. 

“Wagoneer is unquestionably rooted in the legendary Jeep brand and its unmatched heritage of leading capability, authenticity and freedom, and its return allows us to expand to a much more premium arena with new levels of design detail, and advanced safety and technology features,” Meunier added.

The Grand Wagoneer is the next level in premium SUVs for Jeep.

“While Jeep vehicles bring leading capability, efficiency and performance across the mainstream SUV market, Wagoneer will ultimately become a portfolio of vehicles that will once again define ‘American Premium,’ making it the standard of sophistication, authenticity and modern mobility.” 

The Grand Wagoneer Concept boasts a wide array of leading-edge premium technology – including an electrified powertrain, sophisticated 4x4 off-road systems, and a first-ever passenger screen in an SUV that is part of and an unmatched selection of upscale, premium interior features. 

“For more than a quarter century, the first Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer created a new segment for American consumers as the ultimate premium SUV of its day,” Meunier said. “The new Grand Wagoneer Concept is our vision of what a modern expression of this timeless icon can be, and hints at how we will redefine and recreate the benchmark premium SUV.”

The Wagoneer was first launched in 1962 and is reborn for next level design.

Jeep designer, Taylor Langhals, who designed the Gladiator and was in New Zealand in December 2019, said in an Instagram post today “many years ago I was given the incredible opportunity to draw my interpretation of a new Grand Wagoneer. Today the word gets to see it”.

“There was an incredibly talented and dedicated team that crafted our vision to perfection. Days like today remind me why we strive for our dreams.”

The Wagoneer was launched in American in 1962 and was the first four-wheel-drive vehicle mated to an automatic transmission, pioneering the first modern SUV. The 1984 Grand Wagoneer marked the beginning of the premium SUV, giving buyers an unheard-of combination of standard features, such as leather upholstery, air conditioning, AM/FM/CB stereo radios, and added sound insulation, with a dramatic increase in horsepower and torque.

The Grand Wagonner is now a seven seater.

The 2021 Grand Wagoneer Concept’s exterior design is anchored by a prominent Obsidian Black-accented grille featuring the Jeep brand’s iconic seven slots. Each slot features intricate lightweight latticework, while the space above and between each of the seven slots is lit to create a signature LED design. This LED pattern forms an elegant outline to the grille, helping to emphasise the width and overall front fascia of the vehicle.

 The Grand Wagoneer Concept offers a grand interior for up to seven passengers thanks to its spacious comfortable front- and second-row captain’s chairs as well as its third row – a first for the Grand Wagoneer nameplate.

Grand Wagoneer Concept includes an advanced electric-vehicle powertrain, with class leading 4x4 capability, and a zero-emission.

Production versions of the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are slated to arrive in USA showrooms next year but it's not currently destined for the UK or Europe.