The Wagoneer made its debut for the 2022 model year, so any version of this large SUV is already fairly modern. However, the 2023 Wagoneer L model is even newer, so it’s hard to know what to expect from it. If you’re wondering what hot new features are in store—features added to distinguish it from the standard Wagoneer—you’ve come to the right place. Let’s take a look at what this trim has to offer.
L is for Longer
The most obvious feature of the Wagoneer L is that it’s longer than the standard trim. While an extra 12” may not seem like much for an already large SUV, this expansion makes a pretty big difference when it comes to cargo space. Upgrading to the L increases the maximum cargo volume from 117 cu.ft. to 131 cu.ft.—which is great news for anyone who loves camping in style and doesn’t want to forgo any creature comforts due to lack of space.
The L’s longer wheelbase can also come in handy for off-roading or tough conditions on unpaved roads. Say you end up unexpectedly driving into a deep patch of mud and your front tires get stuck and lose traction. Well, thanks to the increased space between the axles, there’s a good chance you’ll notice the issue while the back tires are still on solid land, so you’ll have the traction you need to back up and move on without having to call for a tow. A longer wheelbase also makes the car feel more stable while driving, especially at high speeds. There’s more time between the front and rear wheels hitting bumps or potholes, which makes for a smoother ride.
A “Hurricane” Engine Comes Standard
The 5.7-L V8 engine that powers the standard Wagoneer is already impressive, but its extra space means the L is heavier—so it requires an engine that’s up to the task. Because of this, a Hurricane engine comes standard. Made by manufacturer Stellantis, this twin-turbocharged 3.0-L inline-6 engine is debuting for the 2023 model year. It’s designed to be lightweight yet powerful, giving you all the thrust you need without adding unnecessary weight.
The Wagoneer L will be equipped with the standard-output variant of the Hurricane, which provides 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Wagoneer L will come standard with the high-output version, which is even more powerful, producing 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. So if you upgrade to the more luxurious Grand Wagoneer L model, don’t think that all of the changes will be purely aesthetic.
The innovative design of the engine is fuel-efficient as well; the standard-output Hurricane is rated at about 19 MPG (city/highway combined). That’s a slight improvement over the 2022 Wagoneer, which has a combined rating of 18 MPG for the 2WD version and 17 MPG for the 4WD version; so, the L’s extra size doesn’t have to translate to more pain at the pump. The Hurricane may replace the V8 as standard across all trims of the Wagoneer in years to come, but for now, opting for the L is a sure way to get your hands on an exciting new engine.
The Wagoneer L also features a fuel tank that can fit an extra four gallons, compared to the standard Wagoneer. This is sure to come in handy on long road trips through rural areas where gas stops are few and far-between. On top of that, the Wagoneer can tow up to 10,000 lbs. This is excellent news for drivers who like to vacation with a trailer or boat in tow. That extra four gallons makes it easier to take full advantage of the Wagoneer’s towing capacity without having to make frequent refueling stops.
Practical Features for Rugged Terrain
Like the standard Wagoneer, the Wagoneer L is built for adventure and has plenty of useful features that can come in handy both on-road and off. The Selec-Terrain Traction Management System offers a standard “auto” mode, as well as options for sport, snow, sand/mud, and rock. You choose the setting that best matches your situation, and the Wagoneer will automatically adjust its engine output and torque distribution in order to give you optimal traction.
Available 20” and 22” all-terrain tires can also increase your grip to help you navigate sandy desert or icy roads. Of course, even with top-notch traction, getting stuck in the mud is still possible. That’s why a chrome tow hook is available. If you wind up in a tough situation, this makes it easy to quickly attach towing straps.
High-Tech Features for Passenger Comfort
The Wagoneer comes standard with plenty of high-tech features, like wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto—and even a wireless charging pad where you can power up your phone without dealing with any cables. There are also a number of optional features that offer even more comfort and convenience. An available passenger interactive display gives the person riding shotgun their own infotainment center to update GPS navigation and audio—without having to reach over and potentially distract the driver. You can also get two rear-seat entertainment screens equipable with Amazon Fire TV, so those in the back can stay entertained while en route. The two screens can be used independently or synced up to the same program.
Grand Wagoneer L
We’ve mostly been focusing on the Wagoneer L, but since the Grand Wagoneer is getting a longer version as well, let’s take a quick look at what makes this luxurious version so “grand.” Both SUVs feature the same body and size, and both feature the same amount of expansion for their “L” trim. However, the Grand Wagoneer has a more powerful engine and comes standard with four-wheel drive. Because of this—and the other luxury features it offers, the Grand Wagoneer does have a significantly higher price tag than the Wagoneer.
There are some differences on the exterior (the Grand Wagoneer features a black roof, more chrome, and a different hood) but most of the extra luxuries can be found on the inside. The Grand Wagoneer is decked out with leather and wood trim. It also comes standard with captain’s chairs in the second row—though you can opt for a bench instead if you want to up the maximum seating capacity to eight passengers.
The Grand Wagoneer also has some optional features that aren’t available on the Wagoneer. These include four-zone climate control, allowing individual passengers to set their own temperature throughout the trip, and a 24-way power seat that lets you customize your position for personalized comfort. There’s also an option to get a McIntosh audio system that offers superb sound quality—with more surround-sound speakers than the standard Wagoneer.
Even More to Discover
The standard Wagoneer already has plenty to love, so the Wagoneer L doesn’t need to add much to be a great three-row SUV. While it remains similar to other trims of the Wagoneer in most aspects, its extra space is nothing to shake a stick at. The Grand Wagoneer L offers even more luxury features, but those who are looking for something in a more affordable price range shouldn’t be disappointed by the rugged exterior and comfortable interior of the Wagoneer L.
