While the RAM brand was busy yesterday introducing its all-new 2021 Ram 1500 TRX performance off-roader, the event overshadowed another teaser released by the Jeep® brand teasing its all-new full-size SUV – the Grand Wagoneer. The 15-second teaser called “rearview”, doesn’t show much, but does come hot on the heels of two still images teasing the return of the luxury nameplate for the iconic SUV brand.
The electronic rearview mirror showcased in the teaser will also be making its way into several FCA vehicles for the 2021 model year. The Ram 1500 and Ram ProMaster have already been confirmed by FCA to have the new 9.2-inch wide LCD monitor. The digital rearview mirror displays video in real-time from a rear-facing camera and can be turned off to revert back to a traditional reflective mirror.
Set for a 2022 model year return, the Grand Wagoneer nameplate returns to the Jeep lineup for the first time since 1993.
The Wagoneer nameplate dates back to 1963 when then Kaiser-Jeep launched the nameplate on the SJ platform. The full-size Jeep Wagoneer was known for pioneering the luxury four-wheel-drive (4×4) SUV segment. For its 29-year run, the SJ platform ran mostly unchanged (with the exception of grille, headlamp, tail lamps, and dash panel changes), making it the third longest-produced single generation vehicle in U.S. history. In 1984, the Wagoneer nameplate moved to the smaller Cherokee-based (XJ), and the SJ platform adopted the “Grand Wagoneer” nameplate until the end of its run.
Ultimately replaced by the then all-new Grand Cherokee (ZJ), the Grand Wagoneer nameplate got one last chance for the 1992 and 1993 model years.
The all-new Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer (WS) models will be based on the fifth-generation Ram 1500 architecture and will start production in the second quarter of 2021, as 2022 models. The WS twins will be the most technologically advanced vehicles according to sources close to MoparInsiders. Both vehicles will offer next-generation infotainment setups, as well as electrified powertrain options with a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) options using the new 4xe nameplate.
There are also rumors of a Hellcat-powered Grand Wagoneer Trackhawk model, using the next-generation 8HP95X 8-speed automatic transmission. This was confirmed with leaks about an upgraded 8HP95 transmission (used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk), from documents leaked by transmission manufacturer ZF.
Both models will be built at the Warren Truck Assembly Plant (WTAP) in Warren, Michigan, alongside the Ram 1500 Classic pickup. Expect to see more Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer teaser in the upcoming days. Stay tuned to MoparInsiders.com as we continue to breakdown the details and information surround the new full-size Jeep SUVs.
