Jeep Unveils All-Electric Recon and Wagoneer S SUVs

These stylish, next-generation models reveal the future for the storied brand

Jeff S. Bartlett, Consumer Reports Managing Editor, Autos.

By Jeff S. Bartlett
Managing Editor, Autos

September 8, 2022

The race to the electric vehicle future is underway, and Jeep today unveiled two SUVs, the Recon and Wagoneer S, that it will be rolling out in North America to expand the trails blazed with the Grand Cherokee 4xe and Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrids.

Jeep Recon

The Jeep Recon looks like a next-generation Wrangler designed to compete with the Ford Bronco and Land Rover Defender. Where the Wrangler is known for heritage-inspired design and complex surfaces, with a sculpted hood, notched front fenders, and wheel arch flares, the Recon body is much smoother. Its texture comes from sculpted fenders, the brand’s seven-slot grille, and raised exterior door hinges.

This gives the Recon a modern look, without making it look like an EV, with a smooth front and extroverted styling. It does have key trail-rated cues, with knobby off-road tires and color tow hooks.

To ready it for adventure, the Recon has electric axle locking to enhance traction, driver-selectable modes to dial in the capabilities for different environments, and underbody protection. Expect more road-friendly independent front and rear suspension rather than the old-school solid axles found in the current Wrangler.

As with the Wrangler, the Recon can be opened up for a wind-in-the-hair driving experience. It has a one-touch power top, plus removable doors and rear side windows. And its infotainment system features guides to off-road trails.

The Recon will be shown to the public next year, and it goes into production in 2024.

Jeep Wagoneer S

Even though Jeep just recently introduced a Wagoneer, it is using the code name Wagoneer S for this future SUV. The all-new, pure-electric vehicle will be positioned in the premium market.

The slim, LED-accented grille, thin rear lighting, chrome accents, and sloped rear glass with a rather large integrated wing grants this model a sleek, premium appearance. Overall the styling and shape appears far more rounded and aerodynamic than the existing, Lego-like Wagoneer.

It boasts some big numbers, with a target of 400 miles of range and 600 hp, enabling 0-to-60-mph sprints in about 3.5 seconds.

Like the Recon, the Wagoneer S will be shown to the public next year and will be built in 2024.

The current Wagoneer will be offered as a 4xe plug-in hybrid.

Jeep Wagoneer S rear — The slope of the rear glass on the Jeep Wagoneer S would limit cargo space for tall items. The integrated rear roof spoiler is an interesting touch.

Jeff S. Bartlett

Jeff S. Bartlett is the managing editor for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2005. Previously, Jeff served as the online editorial director of Motor Trend for 11 years. Throughout his career, Jeff has driven thousands of cars, many on racetracks around the globe. Follow him on X: @JeffSBartlett