3.4 seconds. That’s the headline number with the new Jeep Wagoneer S, because, as much as the shock of hearing brutally quick EV acceleration figures has worn off in recent years, there’s still something mightily impressive about a big SUV that outdrag – in terms of official figures, at least – a BMW M3 Competition xDrive to 62mph.
Still, we probably shouldn’t be too surprised. The latest model to sit on Stellantis’ STLA Large platform, the Wagoneer S churns out 592bhp and 590lb ft of torque from its two motors. A 100kWh battery pack also gives it a projected range of over 300 miles, and an apparent 5 to 80 per cent charge time of 28 minutes on a rapid charger.
This being a Jeep, it gets some off-roading goodies too, namely the Selec-Terrain system that features on most of the brand’s models. This gives drivers the choice of snow and sand drive modes in addition to the usual normal, sport and eco settings.
On the outside, it gets a new interpretation of Jeep’s trademark seven-slot grille, which is now illuminated. Yikes. Jeep also proudly points out that the Wagoneer S is its most aerodynamic car ever, with a drag coefficient of just 0.29. Contributing to this is that unusual floating rear spoiler arrangement, which also disguises a rather steeply raked rear windscreen.
The interior contains – count ‘em – four separate screens, totalling over 45 inches of screen space. These include the usual digital gauge cluster and central infotainment screen, plus a screen to keep the front passenger entertained and another below the central unit that handles heating and ventilation. Despite this sheer screen overload, Jeep has still found space for a few buttons. Phew.
Naturally, there are also lots of recycled and synthetic materials in here, including the leather which isn’t really leather at all. A 1160-watt, 19-speaker audio setup from McIntosh tops things off.
The Wagoneer S launches in the US in the second half of 2024, where it’ll be the first fully electric Jeep on sale – the little Avenger is Europe-exclusive for now. It’ll then launch in global markets, including Europe and the UK, in 2025.