Grand Wagoneer Claims Back-To-Back “Winter SUV of the Year” Titles!

In an unprecedented achievement, the 2023 Grand Wagoneer (WS), along with its all-new long-wheelbase Grand Wagoneer L variant, has been named the Official Winter SUV of the Year and Best Premium Full-Size SUV by the esteemed New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA) for the second consecutive year. Additionally, the 2023 Jeep® Grand Cherokee (WL) continues its reign as the Best Midsize SUV in New England, further solidifying its status as the most-awarded SUV ever.

NEMPA’s annual winter vehicle competition, conducted during November through March, rigorously tests numerous manufacturers’ vehicles in the harsh winter weather of New England, encompassing states such as Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. The winners are determined during a one-day testing and scoring event at NEMPA’s headquarters in Middleborough, Massachusetts.

“The Grand Wagoneer topped our votes for NEMPA Winter SUV of the Year and overwhelmingly won its class,” praised Clifford Atiyeh, President of the New England Motor Press Association. “There is nothing more lavish, spacious, capable off-road, or plusher on the road than the Grand Wagoneer and its extended L model. The turbo inline-six and independent rear suspension make a large and capable SUV feel elegant and confident.”

Building upon a rich heritage of premium American craftsmanship, the Grand Wagoneer represents a new standard of sophistication, authenticity, and modern mobility. It offers a unique and exceptional customer experience, combining innovative technology and design cues with legendary 4×4 capability, catering to a diverse and discerning customers. The introduction of the Grand Wagoneer L further enhances the model’s appeal, providing an additional 12 inches in overall length, including 7 inches of wheelbase, resulting in best-in-class overall passenger volume and cargo space behind the third row.

Meanwhile, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a long-standing favorite among NEMPA jurors, with the 2023 model maintaining the legacy as the most awarded SUV ever. The Grand Cherokee lineup now includes the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee 4xe, offering an impressive 25 miles of all-electric range and an efficiency rating of 56 MPGe, as well as the three-row Grand Cherokee L, designed to accommodate up to seven passengers with uncompromised third-row capacity and increased cargo volume.

“The latest Grand Cherokee builds on the Jeep brand’s success with more luxury and space,” remarked Atiyeh. “That it’s priced competitively against premium German and Japanese SUVs while offering Jeep’s legendary four-wheel-drive capability—even as a plug-in hybrid—makes the Grand Cherokee a winner.”

Jim Morrison, Senior Vice President and Head of Jeep® Brand North America expressed gratitude for the prestigious recognition from NEMPA, particularly considering the demanding winter conditions in New England. “To have the respected members of the New England Motor Press honor the Grand Wagoneer and the Grand Cherokee, and name the Grand Wagoneer the Official Winter SUV of the Year two years running, validates that our Jeep team continues to deliver the most capable SUVs both on-road, off-road, and in the snow,” said Morrison.