Grand Wagoneer, Grown Up: 2026 Brings Clearer Trims, Cleaner Design

Jeep® is giving its flagship a focused reset for 2026, and it shows. The new 2026 Grand Wagoneer (WS) streamlines the lineup under one unified Jeep nameplate, ditches the chrome, sharpens the styling, and—importantly—makes the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 Standard-Output (S/O) the default gas powerplant across the board. Pricing now starts under $65,000 before destination, which is a big statement in the full-size SUV game.

As Jeep® CEO Bob Broderdorf put it: “With the refreshed 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, we’re delivering more than just bold design and refined craftsmanship: we’re offering competitive pricing that ensures exceptional value in the large SUV segment. Every Grand Wagoneer also now proudly wears a Jeep badge, reinforcing its prominent position within the Jeep family, while making it easier for customers to find the exact model that fits their lifestyle and price point.”

In this article, I’m focusing on the gasoline HURRICANE S/O models—what most buyers will see first on dealer lots. The range-extended electric (REEV) model is coming later (late availability), and I’ll break that down in a separate article later today.

What’s New For 2026: The Quick Hits –

• Unified Identity: Everything is now Jeep Grand Wagoneer—no more Wagoneer sub-brand split. Every model wears Jeep badging.

• Simplified Trims: A clearer walk from Grand Wagoneer to Limited to Summit, with targeted appearance/feature packages (Upland, Altitude, Obsidian, Reserve) layered in.

• New Look, Less Bling: A taller, more upright front end with a 2-inch higher, Wagoneer S-inspired grille, illuminated seven slots, and full-width rear LED lighting. The big news: no chrome—Jeep swaps in Metallic Bright Silver and Metallic Dark Silver finishes for a modern, technical vibe.

• Standard Powertrain: The twin-turbo 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 (S/O) is standard: 420 horsepower / 468 lb-ft, ZF-sourced 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission, available Quadra-Trac systems, and up to 10,000 lbs max tow when properly equipped.

• Capability Upgrades: Quadra-Lift air suspension (available or standard, depending on trim) offers up to 3.6 inches of lift and serious approach/departure gains.

• Interior Refinements: New materials, colorways (including a late-availability Dark Ruby Red on Summit Reserve), bigger Head-Up Display (HUD), and the expected spread of McIntosh™ audio options.

• Pricing That Hits Hard: Base MSRP from $62,145 (4×2 SWB) before a $2,595 destination charge; a strong under-$65K headline for a full-size, three-row, body-on-frame Jeep.

Exterior: Chrome-Free Sophistication –

The 2026 Grand Wagoneer has been completely refreshed, featuring a more upright stance and a new Wagoneer S-inspired front fascia that stands two inches taller than the previous model. The redesign projects a bolder, more commanding presence, while subtle aerodynamic refinements enhance efficiency.

The most striking change? The death of chrome. Jeep has officially retired chrome trim from the Grand Wagoneer lineup—marking the first time the luxury SUV goes fully chrome-free. Instead, exterior accents now use Metallic Bright Silver and Metallic Dark Silver finishes for a premium, modern look. The change mirrors the design philosophy introduced on the all-electric Wagoneer S and reflects Jeep’s commitment to sustainable, environmentally responsible manufacturing, as chrome plating is a known pollutant.

Up front, the iconic seven-slot grille features illuminated vertical elements flanked by cross-car LED lighting that spans the width of the fascia. The lower fascia incorporates T-shaped LED accents for a more technical appearance.

At the rear, full-width LED taillamps create visual symmetry and emphasize the vehicle’s broad stance. Wheel options range from 18-inch to 22-inch designs, with each trim offering its own distinctive look—from rugged off-road-ready styles to polished urban finishes.

Four new exterior colors, including Steel Blue and Ghost, expand the customization palette.

Interior: Crafted Comfort and Smart Technology –

Inside, Jeep focused on refinement and usability. The cabin architecture carries over but features new materials, colors, and tech interfaces that elevate the experience without overcomplicating it.

Base Grand Wagoneer models feature Capri leather upholstery with Axis II perforation, available in Sea Salt/Black or full Black themes with Smoke stitching. The Limited trim steps up to Nappa leather, adding Basil stitching and Anchor Silver brightwork for a more upscale feel. The top Summit and Summit Reserve trims introduce Palermo leather, Dark Waxed Walnut wood, burnished copper accents, and a suede headliner for an unmistakably premium atmosphere.

A new Dark Ruby Red interior theme debuts later in the model year for the Summit Reserve, joining Black and Tupelo options.

The technology suite improves significantly. A larger HUD now offers double the field of view, making it easier to read navigation and driver-assist info. Instrument clusters range from a 10.25-inch screen on base trims to a 12.3-inch display on higher trims. The front passenger interactive display and digital rearview mirror are standard on upper trims, while a console cooler and tri-pane sunroof add comfort and practicality.

Audio fans will appreciate the lineup of McIntosh systems:

• MX950 (19 speakers) on mid-level trims

• MX1375 (23 speakers, 1,375 watts) on Summit Reserve

Combined with active noise control and solid cabin insulation, the 2026 Grand Wagoneer delivers a quiet, refined drive ideal for both long trips and daily family use.

Powertrain: The HURRICANE S/O I6 Takes the Lead –

Under the hood, simplicity reigns. Every 2026 Grand Wagoneer launches with the twin-turbo 3.0-liter HURRICANE I6 in Standard-Output (S/O) form, producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with the TorqueFlite 8HP75 8-speed automatic sourced from ZF, delivering smooth power delivery and strong efficiency.

The HURRICANE engine is a technical showcase, featuring cooled exhaust gas recirculation, 350-bar direct injection, plasma-sprayed cylinder walls, and a forged crankshaft and connecting rods. The result is a torque-rich, clean-running powerplant that outperforms many V8s while using less fuel.

With the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package (4×4 with a 3.92 axle ratio), the Grand Wagoneer delivers a best-in-class towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds. The HURRICANE S/O engine feels lively in everyday driving, offering smooth, confident torque for highway merging and effortless towing. You can check out my recent impressions of this powertrain in my review of the 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock.

At this time, there’s no High-Output (H/O) variant or HEMI® V8 option, but a 2027 expansion wouldn’t be surprising given Stellantis’ modular powertrain strategy.

Capability: Jeep DNA at Full Scale –

The Grand Wagoneer remains true to Jeep’s legendary off-road and towing roots. Buyers can choose between 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, with Quadra-Trac I (single-speed) or Quadra-Trac II (two-speed with Selec-Terrain). The latter provides selectable modes for Auto, Tow, Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock, and Sport.

The available Quadra-Lift Air Suspension delivers up to 3.6 inches of total travel and 10.1 inches of maximum ground clearance in Off-Road 2 mode. That lift translates to 25.2° approach, 22.1° breakover, and 23.9° departure angles—numbers that rival smaller Jeep models when raised.

The Upland Package, exclusive to the standard-wheelbase Grand Wagoneer, turns the SUV into a capable trail cruiser with:

• 3.92 rear axle ratio

• Quadra-Lift with semi-active damping

• Selec-Speed control

• Underbody skid plates

• Trailer brake control and hitch zoom

• Locking in-vehicle safe and tow hooks

This configuration proves Jeep can deliver real off-road chops in a full-size luxury SUV, while the standard models maintain refined on-road manners and composure.

Trim Breakdown: Simplified and Smarter –

Jeep’s new trim structure for 2026 makes choosing easier than ever:

Grand Wagoneer –

The foundation of the lineup and the best value, offering the HURRICANE S/O engine, Uconnect 5C NAV with 12-inch display, Capri leather seating, and full LED lighting. Buyers can add Quadra-Lift, advanced towing, or the Upland Package for rugged looks and added off-road muscle.

Grand Wagoneer Limited –

Adds Nappa leather, larger screens, and expanded driver-assist features. Available Altitude and Reserve appearance packages allow further customization—Altitude brings blacked-out styling, while Reserve adds the full comfort and technology suite, including Quadra-Lift, HUD, McIntosh MX950 audio, tri-pane sunroof, and 360° parking tech.

Grand Wagoneer Summit –

The luxury benchmark, combining wrapped interiors, open-pore wood, and all the top-level tech, including the larger HUD and available front passenger screen. The Summit Obsidian option emphasizes contrast with black exterior and interior accents, while the Summit Reserve takes luxury to the extreme with Palermo leather, console cooler, 23-speaker McIntosh system, and late-availability Dark Ruby Red interior.

Dimensions, Space, and Utility –

The Grand Wagoneer is big in all the right ways. The standard-wheelbase model measures 216.1 inches long, while the LWB stretches to 228.1 inches. Both share an 83.6-inch body width, making them spacious without feeling oversized on the road.

The passenger room totals 182.4 cubic feet, and the third row remains adult-friendly with 36.6 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity is impressive: 27.9 cu ft behind the third row (SWB), expanding to 42.6 cu ft in the LWB. Drop all the seats, and you have up to 116.7 cu ft of usable space—plenty for long family road trips or hauling weekend gear.

Buyers can choose between captain’s chairs (standard) or an eight-passenger bench setup, depending on needs.

Safety and Driver Assistance –

Safety tech and driver assistance features are fully loaded across trims. Active Driving Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Active Lane Management, 360° surround view camera, and ParkSense parallel/perpendicular assist are standard or available depending on configuration.

A new, larger HUD improves visibility for key driver info, while Intersection Collision Assist and Rain Brake Support enhance confidence in complex traffic or poor weather. Multiple airbags, including front knee and full-curtain coverage, come standard.

Pricing and Production –

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer lineup starts at $62,145 (4×2) and $65,145 (4×4) for the short-wheelbase version before the $2,595 destination charge. The long-wheelbase models begin at $65,145 (4×2) and $68,145 (4×4).

Higher trims range from the mid-$70,000s for Limited variants to just under $100,000 for fully equipped Summit Reserve models. Production of HURRICANE-powered versions begins later this year at Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan, while the range-extended electric (REEV) variant will follow as a late-availability model. The HURRICANE engine itself is built in Saltillo, Mexico.

The Takeaway –

The 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is less about reinvention and more about refinement. It’s cleaner in design, smarter in lineup structure, and stronger in standard power. The HURRICANE S/O engine delivers V8-like performance with modern efficiency, and the simplified trim structure makes choosing far easier than before. The no-chrome aesthetic and upgraded materials move it squarely into modern luxury territory while preserving Jeep’s trademark toughness and capability.

For buyers who found the old model too complicated or flashy, the 2026 update fixes that. It’s still a Grand Wagoneer—just sharper, leaner, and more confident in its own skin.

And if you’re curious about America’s first range-extended electric SUV, stay tuned—I’ll have a full breakdown of the Grand Wagoneer REEV later today.

2026 Jeep® Grand Wagoneer Image Gallery: