Jeep Wagoneer vs Jeep Grand Wagoneer: Which Is Better For Your Family?
So… you’re in the market for a Jeep Wagoneer - I’m here to help!
Jeep’s Wagoneer has always been an excellent option for families, but a few years ago they introduced a more premium version to their original model - the Grand Wagoneer. While the base of this model is extremely similar, they have some important differences.
If you’re new here - welcome! I’m Kelly the Car Mom and as a mom of almost four (if you missed the life update click here), CPST, and a huge car fan, I can’t wait to walk you through all the features of both the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer to help decide which is better for your family.
Are They The Same Size?
Yes. I wanted to start off by addressing the biggest confusion with the Wagoneer in general.
Both the standard Jeep Wagoneer and Jeep Grand Wagoneer are the exact same size. There’s a lot of confusion that the Grand Wagoneer is the extended wheelbase version of the regular Wagoneer, but this is untrue. Think of it as a more premium model.
If you’re looking for a larger full-size option of the Wagoneer, Jeep has an extended wheelbase option - Wagoneer L. It comes in both the standard Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, so you can have additionspace and premium features.
If you’re confused on regular vs extended wheelbase (one is larger than the other), I have a complete breakdown post here. And to see an in-depth review of all the full-size vehicles on the market, check out my Full Size Vehicle Showdown! The extended wheelbase Wagoneer is not my absolute favorite, so check out the pros and cons of each one here.
Jeep Wagoneer Overview:
The Jeep Wagoneer is a classic SUV from the renowned Jeep brand. It's known for its ruggedness and reliability, but I’m here today to walk you through how it handles everyday life as a family vehicle.
Interior & Exterior
The exterior of this feels *very Jeep* and for the most part, I really like it. She’s got a really stylish front end with beautiful hood lines, headlights that are nothing crazy but nice, and some great chrome features. As for the side profile, that has a little more going on and it’s where she loses me a little bit. There are great roof rails and running boards, but I’m just not a fan of the U-shaped windows. I don’t know—instead of luxury car vibes, they make it feel more like a Kia Seoul. But, other than that… I like it.
As for the interior, it actually stacks up with a lot of the other luxury cars in its class (think Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator). It has some really pretty wood trim, chrome, contrast stitching, leather, side cubbies—all the things.
Second & Third Row
When reviewing the Jeep Wagoneer, I looked at it with bench seats and it’s a great set up. The second row is spacious and comfy, with adjustable seats perfect for installing car seats. Two downsides: no built-in sunshades and no ceiling vents, but there are lower and side vents.
To get into the third row, you’ve got the car seat friendly tilt feature that I absolutely love. The third row isn't bad either, with good knee clearance, reclining seats, and middle head restraints. Amenities are meh, with USBs and cup holders, but ventilation is seriously lacking. Overall, comfy and spacious, but missing some key features.
Car Seat Set Up
Car seats fit well with plenty of room for passengers or additional car seats. Second and third rows have tether anchors, with lower anchors in the second row and driver's seat in the third. The second-row seats tilt for easy access to the third row with a car seat installed.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer Overview:
Think of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer as the standard Wagoneer’s older sister. She’s the same base of the vehicle, just with a lot more luxurious elements added throughout.
Interior and Exterior
The front grille of the Wagoneer is a standout feature, with its chrome accents and distinctive seven-slot design. However, the curved windows on the sides give it a unique look, though some may find it reminiscent of a school bus.
Inside, the butterscotch leather interior with black accents is stunning and a significant departure for Jeep. The front row offers all the comforts you'd expect, including a convenient center console with a cool box for snacks or breast milk. Tech-wise, the Grand Wagoneer is loaded with features to compete with vehicles like the Escalade and for the price tag, I do think the features inside compliment it well.
Second and Third Row
In the second row of the Grand Wagoneer, amenities include built-in sun shades, mini Fire TV screens, leather back pockets, and climate controls (though, sadly, no ceiling vents). The bench seat option, reminiscent of the Ford Expedition, offers three separate seats, making it ideal for three car seats across. However, the captain’s chairs with a built-in console can be challenging for families.
Moving to the third row, you have the same great car seat friendly tilt like the standard Wagoneer. Amenities include reclining seats, USB-C ports, vents (although small), and cupholders.
Car Seat Set Up
Car seat setup includes lower and tether anchors in each chair, but installing rear-facing seats like the Clek Liing can be tricky due to limited clearance, especially with a screen attached to the back of the first row.While the third row has middle head restraints and one set of lower anchors along with three sets of tether anchors, the fixed shape of the headrests can pose difficulties for car seat installation.
Jeep Wagoneer vs Grand Wagoneer Comparison List:
Both cars have three individual seats making up the bench
Each seat in the second row has its own LATCH system
Excellent for three across combinations
Car seat friendly tilt is available on both vehicles
Three seats in the third row for both (not my favorite), but provides more seats for passengers
Features Unique to the Grand Wagoneer
The Grand Wagoneer comes with several features that the regular Wagoneer does not offer. These include:
Premium leather upholstery
Advanced technology systems (you’ll see this mostly in the infotainment system)
High-end audio systems
More customizable options for interior finishes
What’s The Price Difference?
No matter if you’re looking at the standard or Grand Wagoneer - this is an expensive vehicle. The starting price for the Wagoneer is around $70,000, while the Grand Wagoneer starts at $90,000.
However, it's important to note these prices are for base models, and actual prices may be higher due to added features and options. More likely than not, dealerships will only be carrying the more premium trim levels for either option so you’ll be spending closer to $80,000 - $100,000.
Safety Features
Both the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer come with standard safety features such as airbags throughout the vehicle, stability control, and traction control, which help to prevent skidding and maintain control on various road surfaces. Additionally, both SUVs are equipped with backup cameras and parking sensors to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.
Both vehicles offer optional safety and security features. These include adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, depending on the trim level you choose.
The Grand Wagoneer offers additional safety features including blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Kelly, If They’re Pretty Much The Same… Why Would I Want The Grand Wagoneer?
It all comes down to preferences. Yes, the Grand Wagoneer does give you some of the more premium features (better seats, audio, second row tv’s etc…), but the standard Wagoneer is still a high-end vehicle that comes with a hefty price tag attached.
If you can afford the Grand Wagoneer and like the additional features, I’d still recommend test driving both to really see if you will utilize all the bells and whistles it comes with.
To see all the other premium family vehicles on the market, read my Best Luxury Family Vehicles post here.
Jeep Wagoneer vs Jeep Grand Wagoneer: Which One Is Better For Your Family?
Whichever one is in your price range is the one better for your family. The shell of these vehicles is the same, you’re just paying an almost $20,000 premium for all the high-end features and premium name of “Grand Wagoneer”.
Yes, I like both of these vehicles for families and really enjoy it’s spaciousness and smooth drive, but don’t feel like you have to choose the Grand Wagoneer over its standard sister just because it has more prestige attached to it. They both are safe, family-friendly vehicles - one is just fancier than the other.
Do you prefer the standard Jeep Wagoneer or premium Jeep Grand Wagoneer? Let me know in the comments? And to keep up with the latest car buying tips for families, check out my recent posts:
