Jeep Wagoneer S: From Hype to Highways—A Post-Launch Reality Check

It's been nearly a full year since the Wagoneer S first rolled into dealerships back in January 2025, and what a whirlwind it's been for Jeep's bold EV bet. Unveiled with fanfare in 2024, production kicked off in August of that year at Stellantis' Toluca plant in Mexico, but real-world deliveries didn't hit until early 2025 for the Launch Edition trim. By February, Jeep expanded the lineup with the more accessible Limited model, dropping the price floor to around $66,000 and adding fresh colors like Hydro Blue. Now, ten months post-launch, it's time for a refreshed take: Has the initial buzz evolved into enduring appeal, or has the road revealed too many potholes? After logging thousands more miles (including some off the beaten path), here's the updated verdict on this 600-hp electrified icon.

Powertrain Punch: Still a Showstopper, But With Real-World Refinements

The dual-motor setup—delivering 600 hp and 617 lb-ft—remains the Wagoneer's party trick, slinging it to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds flat. Post-launch software tweaks via over-the-air updates have smoothed out early throttle mapping issues, making launches less twitchy in Sport mode. Traction control is finally tuned right, curbing wheelspin on damp pavement without killing the fun. Our latest highway loops confirm the EPA's 294-mile range holds at about 280 miles in mixed conditions, though aggressive drivers might see 250.

Charging? The 100-kWh pack (up from initial whispers of 94 kWh) peaks at 203 kW, hitting 20-80% in 23 minutes on a DC fast charger. Owners rave about the included 48-amp Level 2 home charger, turning overnight top-ups into a breeze. That said, in colder climates (like our Midwest test), range dips 15-20%, a common EV gripe Jeep hasn't fully mitigated yet.

Off-road? The Launch Edition's 8.3-inch air suspension shines for light trails, with Selec-Terrain's Snow and Sand modes distributing torque like a pro. But at 6.4 inches of base clearance, it's no Wrangler—stick to graded dirt, not rock crawls.

Dynamics: Incremental Fixes, But No Overhaul

Early complaints about the choppy ride and vague steering? Jeep listened—sort of. A mid-year suspension recalibration softens impacts over expansion joints, but it's still firmer than rivals like the Rivian R1S. Braking distance from 70 mph improved to 185 feet with optional Pirelli P Zero tires (a $1,500 upgrade), though the pedal still feels mushy compared to a Tesla Model Y.

Handling in corners? Better, but not transformed—0.82 g of grip now, thanks to wider rubber, yet the steering lacks the precision of a Porsche Macan EV. For a vehicle that's spent a year on sale, it feels like it's still finding its footing. Fuel economy? Wait, scratch that—93 MPGe combined is solid, but real-world spirited driving yields 78 MPGe.

Cabin and Tech: Timeless Luxury, Evolving Smarts

The interior hasn't changed much, and that's a win: Nappa leather, massaging seats, and that 45-inch screen array (12.3-inch driver display + 12-inch infotainment + passenger screen) age like fine wine. Uconnect 5 remains buttery smooth, with OTA updates adding Amazon Alexa integration and enhanced voice commands since launch. The 23-speaker McIntosh system? Still audiophile-grade bliss.

Cargo holds steady at 61 cubic feet behind row two, and the flat-floor EV layout keeps rear legroom at a limo-like 40 inches. One-year gripe: The minimalist controls (capacitive buttons galore) can distract in gloves—Jeep added haptic feedback in a recent patch, but it's no substitute for physical knobs.

Sales, Gripes, and the Bigger Picture

Pros: Unmatched acceleration for the class; reliable range/charging; luxurious, spacious haven. Cons: Ride remains busy; braking could be sharper; limited true off-road chops.

Nearly a year on, the Wagoneer S has sold briskly—over 25,000 units in North America alone—proving Jeep's EV pivot resonates with luxury buyers ditching gas guzzlers. Yet, forums buzz with calls for a softer suspension and more range (hello, 2026's rumored 350-mile bump). It's no longer "unfinished," but it's not flawless. If you're eyeing one now, snag a discounted Launch Edition—it's matured into a compelling daily driver that embarrasses sports cars at lights while coddling you in silence. For purists wanting poise over punch, the BMW iX or Audi Q8 e-tron might edge it out. Jeep's first EV? A success story with sequel potential. Thumbs up—charge it up and hit the road.