2023 Jeep Wagoneer L Review By Larry Nutson

2023 Jeep Wagoneer L
“L” for Long

By Larry Nutson
Executive Editor and Bureau Chief
Chicago Bureau
THE AUTO CHANNEL

In 2022 Jeep revived a true icon of the automotive world with the introduction of the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer premium utility vehicles (UV). The first Wagoneer was introduced for the 1963 model year. It is THE original full-size utility vehicle. The name lived on within the Jeep brand for 30 years.

The storied Wagoneer is a premium, sub-brand, full-size body-on-frame utility vehicle to compete with the likes of the well know large-utes from GM and Ford Motor Company, as well as those from non-domestic brands.

For 2023 the Wagoneer lineup has been expanded with new long-wheelbase Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L, which adds 12 inches in overall length (226.7 inches) and 7 inches of wheelbase (130.0 inches). There now is up to 44.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which is 15.8 cubic feet more compared to standard wheelbase. These new “L” models proved best-in-class overall passenger volume and cargo volume behind the third row.

Also, an all-new Wagoneer L Carbide has been introduced featuring Gloss Black wheels, Black Onyx grille rings with Gloss Black grille texture, Gloss Black mirror and headlamp appliques, technical hydrographic instrument panel trim and doors with Global Black seats.

Along with the new models there are two all-new 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engines. Wagoneer L features a Hurricane twin-turbo engine rated at 420 horsepower and developing 468 lb.-ft. of torque. Grand Wagoneer L has a new high-output Hurricane twin-turbo 510, which delivers 510 horsepower and 500 lb.-ft. of torque. Each engine mates to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.

Wagoneer L is offered in rear-drive (4x2) or four-wheel drive (4X4). Grand Wagoneer L is only 4X4. Three 4x4 systems are available depending on model, namely Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II with active low range and rear electronic limited slip differential. Quadra-Lift air suspension is standard on the Grand Wagoneer L.

With maximum ground clearance of 10 inches, the 2023 Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L deliver water-fording capability of 24 inches. Towing capacity is up to 10,000 lbs.

Wagoneer L models are eight passenger with optional second row captain’s chairs reducing seating to seven. Whereas, Grand Wagoneer L models are seven passenger with an optional second row bench for eight passenger seating.

Both models are equipped with a long list of collision warning, collision intervention, and driving control assistance features.

EPA fuel economy ratings for the 4x2 Wagoneer L are 20 mpg combined with 17 city mpg and 24 highway mpg. The Wagoneer L 4x4 is EPA rated at 19 mpg combined with 16 city mpg and 23 highway mpg. And, Grand Wagoneer L has EPA fuel economy ratings of 16 mpg combined with 14 city mpg and 19 highway mpg.

I have previously driven the 2022 Wagoneer and recall how much I liked the interior. The use of premium materials and well-crafted finishes provide an elegant look and feel. Every seat “in the house” is great. The rear bench seats three adults, comfortably.

The center touchscreen is accompanied by an available 10.25-inch passenger screen with four major functions: Co-Pilot for navigation and device management, entertainment via HDMI or Rear Seat Entertainment control, the ability to view the exterior vehicle cameras and, the first ever Fire TV for Auto integration, featuring touchscreen displays, Alexa, and access to hundreds of thousands of movies, TV shows and apps.

An industry-first is the availability of a McIntosh brand 1,375-watt premium audio system featuring 23 speakers, including a 12-inch subwoofer with 3D Surround System. This audio system has better sound than many home systems.

The Wagoneer L with its spacious, premium and technologically advanced interior is a winner of Wards 10 Best Interiors & User Experience for 2023.

More details on the 2023 Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L can be found at www.jeep.com. Wagoneer L prices start at a U.S. MSRP of $62,495; Grand Wagoneer L starts at a U.S. MSRP of $92,140. Destination charge is $2,000. I’ve now not only driven the Wagoneer in both regular and long version but I have also had experience driving GM”s trio of full size utes as well as the two from Ford Motor. Which size would I buy if roominess was most important? Passenger capacity is equivalent, so it all comes down to the cargo. In the case of the Wagoneer the added cost for the “L” is $3,000.

I would most likely play the long game and go for the “L.” The added cargo room will most likely come in handy more than once, especially with a load of passengers plus luggage.

Rooted in Jeep brand heritage, Wagoneer aspires to become a portfolio of vehicles that defines “American premium.”

Happy motoring