The Wagoneer S: What We Know About Jeep’s First North American BEV

April 12th, 2024 by

A future electric vehicle for sale, a black 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S, is shown driving fast.

Since it was announced in 2022, Jeep and EV fans in Colorado Springs have been waiting—and not always patiently—for the Wagoneer S to arrive. But the end of the wait is in sight. Though the release date is not yet official, Jeep has stated production will begin by this fall, meaning the SUV should arrive here at Faricy Chrysler Jeep in time for the holiday season, if not sooner.

In a market that already has a lot of electric vehicles for sale, the arrival of the Wagoneer S is nonetheless worth heralding. Not too long ago, a BEV seemed like a mere twinkle in the eye for Jeep. But over the last few years, the brand has seriously improved its electric game. It introduced the Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid in 2021, followed by the Grand Cherokee 4xe. Then, in 2023, the Jeep Avenger subcompact crossover went into production, marking Jeep’s first true BEV—though it currently is only available in the European market.

Now, Americans are finally getting a BEV from Jeep with the 2025 Wagoneer S. What can Colorado drivers expect from this fully electric SUV? How will it handle the highways, byways, backroads, and trails of the American West? We’ve managed to contain our excitement just long enough to write up what there is to know about the Wagoneer S and what it can do for Colorado Springs families and adventurers.

Building on the Wagoneer Legacy

It may surprise some people that Jeep would choose a vehicle other than its flagship Wrangler for its first American BEV (though the Jeep Recon, which will hit showrooms shortly after the Wagoneer S, undoubtedly is influenced by the Wrangler). But when you look at the history of Jeeps and SUVs, the Wagoneer is a fitting choice.

The Jeep Wagoneer that debuted in 1963—seven years before the Land Rover Range Rover—is considered the world’s first luxury SUV. It could take on tough trails while being comfortable on the road, making it a true “go anywhere” vehicle. The original Wagoneer, along with variants such as the Super Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, was produced for 29 straight years, making it one of the longest-running vehicles ever.

To the consternation of many, Jeep discontinued the Wagoneer in 1991. However, after three decades on the sidelines, the Wagoneer name was revived in 2021 with the full-size Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. Again positioned as a premium vehicle, the Wagoneer quickly regained its presence with booming sales.

Now, just three years after gracing dealership lots again, the Wagoneer name drives into the future with the Wagoneer S. Let’s see how this BEV compares to the gas-powered Wagoneer and whether it’s something Colorado Springs drivers should be eyeing.

A close-up of the Jeep badge on the back of a black 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S is shown.

A New Take on Jeep

Although it shares its name and some of its styling with the current Wagoneer (and its luxury sibling, the Grand Wagoneer), make no mistake that the Wagoneer S is an all-new SUV. The most significant detail is that it will use the STLA Large platform announced in January 2024. Notably, the same BEV platform will go under several other vehicles from the Stellantis family released over the next two years, including the Jeep Recon, Dodge Charger Daytona, and Alfa Romeo Giulia.

How can a luxury SUV share its DNA with muscle cars and sports sedans? Because this is one of the most advanced and flexible platforms ever made. Stellantis designed it so brands like Jeep can alter the wheelbase, ground clearance, suspension, powertrain, and more while retaining the same foundation. When you see how the engineers have tailored the STLA Large platform to the Wagoneer S, you might be as excited as we are.

Power and Range for Any Outing

Two of the biggest questions about an EV are how powerful it is and how far it can go. For the Wagoneer S, the answer to both is “a lot.” Jeep has publicly declared this all-electric SUV will have at least 600 hp and go from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. By comparison, the internal-combustion Grand Wagoneer tops out at 510 hp and a 4.7-second launch to 60 mph. Remember the 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk that gave even the biggest speed enthusiasts pause? That’s the territory the Wagoneer S is entering.

Jeep also says the vehicle can travel an estimated 400 miles using a maximum 118 kWh battery. Does this apply to the 600 hp version? We’ll soon find out. Regardless, if you’ve been holding off on an electric SUV until you can drive from Colorado Springs to Wyoming and back with room to spare, your time is now. Jeep also trumpets a maximum recharge rate of 4.5 kWh per minute with 800-volt architecture. You’ll be able to recharge in less than half an hour for more time at the wheel.

All-Terrain Adventuring

Okay, so you can go for a while in the Wagoneer S. But where can you go? It would be easier to say where can’t you go. The Wagoneer S will use a dual-motor 4×4 powertrain and the Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system, meaning better traction and cornering on slick ground. Thanks to the STLA Large platform, you get an independent suspension for smoother handling and stability. The platform supports up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance; we don’t know exactly how much the Wagoneer S will have, but it should be close to the max.

The Wagoneer S likely won’t be quite as rugged as the Jeep Recon, and it may not carry the Trail-Rated badge. But it will stay true to the Wagoneer legacy of being able to handle intermediate and some advanced terrain, then giving you a cozy ride home.

The digital dash in a 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S is shown.

Luxury Styling and Tech

One thing people have noticed about the Wagoneer S is that, unlike past Wagoneers, it won’t be a full-size SUV. Official dimensions haven’t been released, but the eyeball test says the Wagoneer S will be closer to the Grand Cherokee in size. Still, this is enough to comfortably seat five. It’s also more aerodynamic than the Wagoneer, with a sloped roof, a rear wing, updated LED headlights, and a more aggressive grille. Think of it as a Wagoneer that’s taken Jeep’s relationship with Alfa Romeo to the next level.

When you climb inside the Wagoneer S, you’ll be greeted by a whopping four screens. This includes the regular infotainment screen, a digital instrument cluster screen, a screen for functions such as climate control, and a front passenger screen that can do almost everything the main screen does—including displaying video. Steering wheel controls are greatly expanded, and audiophiles will be in heaven with a 19-speaker McIntosh sound system. The dual-pane sunroof welcomes in nice days, and there is an LED lighting stripe around the dash and doors that adds to the modern vibe.

The Wagoneer Like You’ve Never Seen

Throughout its history, anyone who drives a Wagoneer has expected a lot from their machine. With the Wagoneer S, you’re going to get all that with battery-electric power and a dash of sporty attitude. As details continue to be announced, anticipation for the first BEV Jeep in America is only getting bigger.

When it leaves the assembly line, you’ll find the Wagoneer S for sale here at Faricy Chrysler Jeep. Can’t wait that long to reserve yours? Call now to ask about pre-orders. Our history of serving Colorado Springs dates to 1942, and we’ll use that history of excellence to help you fly into the future of luxury SUVs with the name that started it all.