Jeep Wagoneer vs Genesis GV80

Jeep is digging deep into its back catalog for new models. The Stellantis brand (formerly Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) recently resurrected the Jeep Gladiator pickup truck, and now it’s bringing back another name from the past—the Wagoneer.

The Jeep Wagoneer was one of the original American SUVs and boasted a 28-year production run, spanning 1963 to 1991. It’s a tough act to follow, then, as demonstrated by Jeep’s last attempt at a full-size SUV, the ill-fated Commander.

The Wagoneer returns not just as a new SUV, but as a sub-brand that sits atop the rest of the Jeep lineup in size, price, and prestige. For the 2022 model year, Jeep is launching both the standard Wagoneer and a more luxurious Grand Wagoneer (covered in a separate review). As the lower-tier model, the standard Wagoneer targets full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia.

The 2022 Wagoneer launches in Series II and Series III trim levels, with a base Wagoneer Series I model scheduled to join the lineup at a later date. Our test vehicle was a Wagoneer Series II, which is the de facto base model until the Series I arrives.

We first got an idea of the GV80 in 2017 at the New York Auto Show when the company debuted a concept. Fast forward to 2021 when we saw the first production model and we knew it would be a hit. Over the past two years, our admiration has only grown. Available in Canada with Advanced or Prestige packages, the GV80 is a midsize luxury SUV with plenty of features, offering stellar value for those who recognize a good deal when they see it.

Verdict: With great styling inside and out, plus a healthy choice of potent powertrains, the Genesis GV80 is an attractive and capable option in the midsize luxury SUV segment. Its technology can require a bit of a learning curve, but there are few true faults with this vehicle.