The three big announcements for 2021 are the Hemi Wrangler, the new Grand Cherokee L, and the return of the Wagoneer nameplate. Here is what we think of both of them.
2021 392-Hemi Wrangler
It’s probably wrong to hope that the 392 Wrangler is a dud. Starting with the estimated 70K MSRP to the fact that the Wrangler does not need the 6.4 Hemi I would rather not have it succeed than to further push the average Wrangler price point above 50K.
The 5.7 Hemi would have been plenty of V8 for the Wrangler. Enough power, more efficiency, and less costly it would have given enthusiasts what we really want. More bottom end effortless torque delivery without power adders.
The other piece of the 392 is you can’t buy it in anything but a top of the line Rubicon with a ton of electronics not everyone wants or can afford. A 5.7 Hemi sport with the ability to add some nice upgrades like the small touchscreen and heated seats is a far more attractive option.
Another option for 2021 would be that all Wranglers come with the Dana 44 front and rear like the Gladiator. No issues with handling the V8 and everyone gets a little upgrade.
2021 Grand Cherokee L
The Grand Cherokee L is a larger version of the all-new Grand Cherokee. There is still the full-size body-on-frame Wagoneer in the pipeline.
The L version of the Grand Cherokee delivers on style, luxury, and the V8 performance we wanted in the Wrangler.
With pricing reported as low as 40K and topping out at 55K, it would also be the value leader in the segment. Once the Wagoneer is released I do wonder how these two models may take sales from each other.
The return of the Wagoneer.
Not as anticipated as the return of the Bronco to Ford’s lineup the Wagoneer is still exciting news for the world of Jeep. Thankfully it will be a true homage to the original Wagoneer with body-on-frame construction and true full-size capability. Looking at you Blazer.
I think the largest part of our issue with the Wagoneer is the market. This is pegged to be a high-priced luxury SUV competing with the top level luxury manufacturers. The original Wagoneer had that available but at it’s core was a workman’s vehicle that offered massive cargo capacity with legendary off-road prowess.
I get that almost no-one off-roads like they used to, and I also understand that roads have progressed immensely since the original Wagoneer. Gone are the long dirt roads of my youth and in their place are “better” paved roads. The new Wagoneer is ideally suited for this reality.
We do find it oddly appealing and can’t wait to test drive one. What are your thought on the thee new Jeep models?
