Jeep Grand Wagoneer shapes up for Oz

Jeep Australia has revealed that it is studying the potential for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer to be sold Down Under, with local boss Kevin Flynn confirming the US brand’s all-new flagship SUV is “something we’ll look at”.

Asked by carsales today whether the Grand Wagoneer would be built in right-hand drive, Flynn said: “Never say never, and obviously it’s something we’ll look at.

“It’s an interesting development, there’s a lot to it, and I think over a little bit of time you’ll see the shape of what’s happening there, and let’s see what role we play,” he said.

Unveiled in near-production concept form in September ahead of production starting next year, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is being positioned as a Range Rover and BMW X7 competitor in the US.

It will also take on vehicles like the iconic Cadillac Escalade by offering a high-tech luxury experience with seven digital screens, a 23-speaker premium stereo, loads of intricate 3D-printed design flourishes and acres of sustainably-sourced leather-like upholstery.

Jeep Australia had previously stated that it doesn’t talk about future product, so Flynn’s comments show a shift in tone towards Grand Wagoneer for Australia.

“That vehicle is an interesting one and it’s so polarised the American market I think. But anyway, let’s see [what happens],” he said.

While the signs are clearly positive, the company will be studying how the Grand Wagoneer will fit into the local line-up as the next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee – also with seven seats – similarly draws near.

Jeep has boldly claimed the Grand Wagoneer will deliver “unmatched” towing capabilities. As towing becomes an increasingly important buying factor for many Aussies, it could play a key role in the local business case.

Based on a similar platform to the RAM 1500 truck – a vehicle that has been selling strongly in Australia this year, despite a COVID-19-related sales downturn – the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and the less extravagant Jeep Wagoneer will deliver serious off-road capability too.

The Grand Wagoneer will be fitted with a trio of different four-wheel drive set-ups and air suspension will be standard across the range.

Engine types for the flagship SUV have not been locked in, but Jeep has confirmed that a plug-in hybrid powertrain will be offered, potentially a development of the 2.0-litre petrol-electric unit (280kW/637Nm) that powers the new Wrangler 4xe.

Jeep also has access to a range of V6 and V8 engines across the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) group, and there’s a strong possibility of a 500kW-plus Hellcat V8 for a performance-leading Grand Wagoneer Trackhawk model.