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Jeep Grand Wagoneer Review

by | Aug 19, 2022 | 0 comments

Jeep Grand Wagoneer Review

 The 2022 Wagoneer will become a portfolio of vehicles that redefines ‘American premium,’ Jeep says

The Grand Wagoneer in Midnight Blue paint.

The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is sold in four trim levels with all-wheel drive. Starting prices range from $89,995 to $109,995, including the $2,000 freight charge from the Warren (Michigan) Truck Assembly Plant. (Photos courtesy of Stellantis)

Table of Contents

Wagoneer History
The Modern Wagoneer
2023 Hurricane Engine and L models
Pricing
Putting the Grand in Wagoneer
10 Cool Features
Performance and Ride and Handling
Wagoneer Client Services
10 Customer Promises
Why Buy the Grand Wagoneer?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

Jeep ballsied its way into the fray of large, body-on-frame SUVs with its 2022 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. This segment of full-size, seven- to eight-passenger truck-based utes are friendly titans, and throwbacks to what were once just big family wagons.

For years the segment was a three-way competition, dominated by the Chevrolet Suburban (and Tahoe), Ford Expedition, and Nissan Armada. And their luxury variants.

According to GoodCarBadCar.net Second quarter U.S. sales of big SUVs, including the Suburban-based GMC Yukon, totaled 63,061.

And there is big money in big SUVs. So far in 2022, transaction prices on average have ranged from the mid-$60,000s to around $105,000, including the Lincoln Navigator and Cadillac Escalade ESV.

Dinosaur or Dynamic?

The full-size SUV market has remained strong despite headwinds in the form of rising prices, scarce supply, and high fuel prices, said Ed Kim, president and chief analyst at AutoPacific, Inc. The automotive marketing research and product-consulting firm has offices in Long Beach, Calif., Michigan, Wisconsin, and North Carolina.

“Outside of families who need the space and towing capacity of a full-size body-on-frame SUV, full-size SUVs are increasingly popular among livery customers,” Kim said. “As full-size premium sedans like the Lincoln Town Car and Cadillac XTS have disappeared from their respective brands’ portfolios, livery customers have had to look elsewhere.

Kim said that the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are very well executed full-size SUVs that are extremely competitive and, in some ways, better than the incumbents. “With their classy and very well-finished interiors, they will certainly impress any livery customers fortunate enough to ride in one.

“The Jeep brand has been pushing itself further upscale, so there certainly would be no brand deficit to using a Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer as a livery vehicle,” Kim said in email correspondence. “Livery firms now have another very appealing choice in the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, so there’s no doubt they will find an audience in the livery market.”

The standard and long wheel base models of Wagoneer back to back

2022 Grand Wagoneer (left) and 2023 Grand Wagoneer L (right)

Wagoneer History

The brought-back Wagoneer nameplate continues in the original model’s uplevel presentation. The first-generation Jeep Wagoneer debuted in 1962 for the 1963 model year. Jeep says it the Wagoneer was the first four-wheel-drive vehicle mated to an automatic transmission.

Compared with the more utilitarian Jeep Cherokee, the first-generation Wagoneer was engineered for better ride quality, a more stylish appearance, and a luxurious interior. An independent front suspension was optional. Quadra-Trac, the first automatic full-time four-wheel-drive system, was introduced in 1973.

The Grand Wagoneer debuted in 1984 and marked the beginning of the luxury SUV. Jeep called it “the gold standard of the SUV market.” It was made special by leather upholstery, air conditioning, AM-FM-CB stereo radios, additional sound insulation, and wood-grain exterior trim. Jeep said the Grand Wagoneer’s 175-horsepower 360-cubic-inch V-8 engine had the segment’s highest towing rating.

A 1975 Jeep Wagoneer with simulated wood-panel sides.

A 1975 Jeep Wagoneer.

The Modern Wagoneer

The Jeep division of parent-company Stellantis took its sweet time to re-enter the fray, but it plays by its own rules. Jeep has elevated the format with comprehensive advanced technologies and premium materials.

The posh interior treatment of the Grand Wagoneer reminds of midcentury modern Chrysler. Everything about the interior and styling is over-the-top. The design and engineering have the weighty feel of quality. And its engineering teems with advanced technologies that are not fearsome to learn or use.

Stellantis Design Chief Ralph Gilles says the Grand Wagoneer was done the American way. “The first impression is that everything is so beautifully done,” he said in a video overview.

Jeep says the Wagoneer will become a portfolio of vehicles that redefines “American premium” while delivering a unique customer experience. The customer experience will include 10 promises and Wagoneer Client Services.

A front right 22 inch Goodyear Eagle tire on the Grand Wagoneer

Significant tire patch from the 22-inch Goodyear Eagle grand touring tires (285/45).

Wagoneer Foundation

The Wagoneer foundation is sourced from the Ram 1500 pickup, but any comparisons stop there. There are no shared body panels or other common parts that can be seen and touched. The Wagoneer format is a separator from the competition, which starts with a finished pickup truck engineered for hard work first and luxury second.

The current sales plan features two models, Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer that fill mainstream and luxury categories. Both models have a third row and seating for up to eight. For 2022, both models are V8-powered, but that changes for 2023:

2022 Wagoneer uses a 392 horsepower, 5.7-liter V-8 engine. It has the next generation of eTorque 48-volt hybrid with fuel-saving technologies of cylinder deactivation and variable cam timing. Rear-wheel drive is standard rear-wheel drive or there are three options of 4WD systems. The rear-drive Wagoneer has fuel-economy ratings of 16/22/18 mpg city/highway/combined; and 15/20/17 mpg for 4WD. Midgrade fuel is recommended.

2022 Grand Wagoneer features a 471-hp, 6.4-liter V-8 also with cylinder deactivation and variable cam timing. Four-wheel-drive fuel-economy ratings are 13/18/15 mpg using the recommended premium fuel.

Each engine mates to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Agave blue interior of the Grand Wagoneer

The Blue Agave interior with quilted Palermo leather.

2023 Hurricane Engine and L Models

Long-wheelbase models for both series of Wagoneer will be introduced for the 2023 model year. The additional 12 inches in overall length went to more rear-seat legroom and cargo capacity. With both rows of seats folded, there is room to slide in a few sheets of 4-by-8-foot plywood, Jeep says.

A new family of Hurricane inline six-cylinder engines will trim fuel use and maintain horsepower. The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engines have two power levels:

The 420-hp Hurricane in the Wagoneer L has 468 foot-pounds of torque. The heavier Grand Wagoneer gets the high-output Hurricane twin-turbo 510, with 510-hp and 500 lb.-ft. of torque.

Jeep says a run of the Hurricane twin-turbo 510 engine will be available on the 2022 Grand Wagoneer. Ordering is now open for the $2,000 engine option. Rear-drive models have mileage ratings of 15/21/17 mpg on the recommended premium fuel.

Also new for 2023 is the Wagoneer L Carbide with a black theme. Special features include gloss black wheels, black grille, gloss black mirror, and headlamp trim. The interior has a technical hydrographic instrument panel trim and door panels with gloss black seats.

A Wagonner Carbide emphasizing black elements

A 2023 Wagoneer L Carbide. Turn-key for limo service.

2022 Wagoneer Pricing

The 2022 Wagoneer is sold in six trim levels of Series I, Series II, Series III and three series of the Carbide model. Starting prices for the standard rear-drive Wagoneer range from about $61,000 to $76,000. Carbide models range in price from $66,490 to $80,190; add $3,000 for 4WD.

The 2022 Grand Wagoneer is sold in four trim levels, all with four-wheel drive: Series I, Series II, Obsidian, and Series III.

Series I starts at $89,995, Series II at $99,995, Obsidian at $105,490, and Series III at $109,995. All MSRPs include the $2,000 freight charge from the Warren (Michigan) Truck Assembly Plant.

The Grand Wagoneer Series III tester was $116,720. It was nearly fully loaded with factory options and included: Midnight Sky metallic paint $645; Customer preferred package 23W $995; rear-seat entertainment group $2,195; 22-inch machined aluminum wheels with black noise pockets $1,595; and embossed metal interior accents $1,295.

There was a $1,500 bonus cash allowance for both Wagoneer models. See current Grand Wagoneer pricing here.

The passenger side 10.25 inch wide touch screen of controls

The passenger-side 10.25-inch touchscreen.

Safety Features

Standard safety features include eight air bags, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, active lane management, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and intersection collision assist.

A black and white image of the night vision camera

The Night Vision Camera is especially useful where there are no street lights.

Putting the Grand in Wagoneer

The Grand Wagoneer will stand tall — and long — among the luxury-class competitors. The standard wheelbase models of Wagoneer are about 4 inches longer than their closest competitors. Among the competing luxury SUVs are the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, Infiniti QX80, Land Rover Range Rover, Lincoln Navigator, and Mercedes-Benz GLS.

The Grand Wagoneer cabin is rich in comfort, with grandstand views. Jeep tried to ensure a quiet cabin with an acoustic laminated windshield, front door glass, laminated rear glass, and active noise canceling through the audio system. It is an engineering marvel for this towering beast to power along the highway in such traffic-calmed style.

From the suede headliner to the full-weave carpeting, The Grand Wagoneer’s list of standard equipment might be the longest I’ve had to itemize for any vehicle I’ve tested. Power door-closers and heated armrests might be the only missing luxe perks.

The entire list is in the specifications at the end of this review, but here are a few of the standout luxury basics:

Quilted Palermo leather-trimmed massaging seats, 20-way power adjustable front seats, suede headliner, natural walnut interior trim, second-row captain’s chairs with power tilt and slide, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, luxury front and rear floor mats, reversible cargo mat, foldable cargo shade. There also is a new Uconnect 5 Navigation and infotainment system with voice command, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, and a 23-speaker McIntosh entertainment system.

A digital rearview camera mirror is standard, but I can’t use it with my eyeglasses. When I look at the digital mirror, it takes a second or two for my eyes to focus. But the mirror can be switched to the low-tech original.

Power running boards lower to a convenient step-aboard height.

Power running boards lower to a convenient step-aboard height.

10 Cool Grand Wagoneer Features

Some of my favorite Grand Wagoneer features:

Power running boards. These lower to a convenient step-aboard height, particularly with the air suspension’s lowered ride height when parked. Too often, running boards create too much of a step and are awkward to use. The design of the boards forms the rocker panel, so legs do not rub on dirty metal.

Power-adjustable pedals (with memory sets). Adjustable pedals are a safety feature to help dial in a secure seating position for drivers of all sizes. The pedals are assets with the power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel.

Rear seat monitoring camera. The overhead split-screen view of the second row is mainly to keep an eye on a child’s seat, or two — or a pet.

Power folding and reclining second- and third-row seats. How convenient to have this function for loading kids or cargo. And with power switches in the cargo area to fold the second row or fold and raise the third row.

Tri-pane panoramic sunroof and sunshade. The span of glass is dramatic, particularly for those in the second and third rows.

Roof rack with crossbars. Roof-rack crossbars are typically an added cost, but these are standard and store neatly below the cargo floor. Storing the crossbars when not needed helps trim wind noise.

11 USB ports. Let’s hope the USB port does not soon become obsolete. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoner have eight USB ports, of the dual C-type and standard style. The count goes to 11 with the rear entertainment system.

Night Vision camera with pedestrian and animal detection. This type of system is an asset in areas without street lights. But it is a little odd visually to see the smallish X-ray-like presentation in the driver-info display.

Back seat passengers can view streaming TV and movies on the optional Rear Seat Entertainment system

The Rear Seat Entertainment system, $1,295, features two 10.1-inch touchscreens for streaming movies, apps, and Fire TV for Auto.

Wagoneer Screen Envy

There are nearly 45 inches of display screens along the front instrument panel. Among the inch count are the 12.3-inch-wide instrument cluster, and a 12-inch horizontal touchscreen to access audio, navigation, apps, and views from the 360-degree camera. Just below is a 10.25-inch horizontal display for cabin controls. Then push a button, and the screen rotates to reveal the media hub with two dual USB ports, aux-in, and the wireless charging pad.

To empower the front passenger, the Grand Wagoneer includes a 10.25-inch-wide passenger screen. The access has four primary functions:

  • Co-Pilot (navigation and device management);
  •  Entertainment (via HDMI or rear seat entertainment control);
  •  The ability to view the exterior vehicle cameras;
  •  Fire TV for Auto.  It is possible to start a movie at home and finish it in the Grand Wagoneer.

And there is a 10.25-inch rear screen in the second row to adjust temp, fan, airflow, and seat heating and ventilating controls.

The Rear Seat Entertainment system, $2,195, features Amazon Fire TV built-in. Second-row passengers can stream TV, movies, and apps on two 10.1-inch touch screens on the seatbacks.

In total, there are 75 inches of display screens.

Performance and Ride and Handling

The big 6.4-liter V-8 hits its power stride with a peak of 455 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,400 rpm. The eight-speed automatic rolls smoothly through gear changes while showing respect to stretching fuel economy. Sport mode steps up off-the-line force but not aggressively.

Fuel economy is challenged. The best I could get was 13.3 mpg on a long highway run. Owners will not enjoy filling the 26.5-gallon tank, but they will enjoy every mile it provides.

A hood-up view of the 6.4-lter V-8 engine.

Grand Wagoneer’s 471-hp, 6.4-liter V-8. (Mark Maynard photo)

Ride and Handling

Road tripping in a Grand Wagoneer Series III is a first-class cruiseliner experience. There is headroom and legroom for 6-foot-6 tall adults in the first and second rows. And the second-row captain’s recline and are heated and ventilated.

The ride quality is supple, and some might consider it too soft in road undulations. But there is very little wind or tire noise at highway speeds. And the tire patch is significant from 22-inch Goodyear Eagle grand touring tires (285/45).

Four-wheel-disc stopping power is absolute and necessary when controlling three-plus tons. The front brakes have 14.88-inch vented rotors, and the solid rear rotors are 14.76 inches.

At 6,420 pounds, the Grand Wagoneer is at least 300 to 800 pounds heavier than its mainstream competition. But its turning circle of 38 feet is up to 3 feet tighter.

The Grand Wagoneer’s max tow capacity is a benchmark at 9,850 pounds. A Class IV receiver hitch and 7- and 4-pin wiring harness are included.

Grand Wagoneer’s Air Ride

The GW’s Quadra-lift air suspension gives the feel of a carpeted ride. Head toss is well controlled over speed bumps or when pulling into driveways. The sophisticated system includes electronic semi-active damping to match changing road conditions and stabilizer bars.

Quadra-Lift adds up to 3.6 inches of lift, supported by four-corner air springs. The air-cushioned ride operates automatically, or it can be manually controlled at the shift console. It has five height settings:

Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy, as well as improved aerodynamics during on-road driving;

Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional inch from NRH for added height in clearing obstacles (9 inches);

Off-road 2: Adds 2 more inches of ride height, for 10 inches of ground clearance;

Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.6 inches from NRH. NRH and Park Mode are driver-selectable, allowing the driver full control over vehicle ride height;

Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle 0.6 inches from normal ride height. Aero Mode is controlled by vehicle speed and adjusts for optimal performance and fuel economy. The vehicle will also lower to Aero Mode when in Sport Mode

The spacious second row captains chairs

There is headroom and legroom for 6-foot-6 passengers in the second row.

Wagoneer 4WD Systems

The Grand Wagoneer gets the top two-speed on-demand four-wheel-drive system. Its Selec-Terrain traction control has five modes: Automatic (functional for on- or off-road driving), Sport, Snow, Sand/Mud.

Rock mode works with the Quadra-Lift for a maximum height of 10 inches.

Selec-Speed Control integrates hill-ascent and hill-descent controls. The Electronic Range Select system, engaged at the steering wheel, allows drivers to control vehicle speed up and down trail grades without using the accelerator or brake pedals.

Wagoneer Client Services

Wagoneer will become a portfolio of vehicles that defines “American premium” and delivers a unique customer experience, the company says.

Customers interested in purchasing a Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer can go to Wagoneer.com, select a dealer and place a $500 deposit. A Wagoneer concierge will make contact to initiate the order process, provide vehicle updates, and assist with any dealer interactions.

After a customer receives their vehicle, support will continue through a VIP helpline via Wagoneer Client Services. Those services include:

  • Five years of free dealership maintenance, including oil changes and tire rotations;
  • 24/7 concierge support and roadside assistance via phone or online chat;
  • No-charge equivalent service loaner;
  • Trip interruption coverage;
  • VIP access to exclusive events;
  • Interior and exterior vehicle cleaning and a full tank of fuel when serviced;
  • Vehicle pickup/delivery for service;
  • Free Wi-Fi and phone charging at the dealership.
The third row seats

With more than 3 feet of legroom, the third row can recline or fold flat.

10 Customer Promises

1. Only dealers that earn a “Customer First” award for excellence by J.D. Power will be allowed to sell the Wagoneer.

2. The sales process will be efficient. Sales reps will use tablets and full integration to digital communication.

3. Certified Wagoneer Ambassadors. To become certified, a sales or service associate must complete more than 90 hours of training and pass exams to ensure that he or she truly understands the brand, the cars, how they can be used, and how they can be equipped.

4. Every Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will be sold with a full gas tank.

5. The vehicle will be thoroughly cleaned at delivery and after servicing and will be returned with radio, seating, climate, and other settings left as the customer had them.

6. Tech access to remote showrooms and to schedule test drives and delivery services.

7. An appropriate loan vehicle will be provided when a Wagoneer must be left at the dealership.

8. Remote services and diagnostics to schedule services and updates, including over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics.

9. Free Wi-Fi and phone charging in the showroom or service lounge, with “high-quality beverages and snacks.”

10. Wagoneer Client Services will provide 24/7 customer support and five years of maintenance. Concierge support and roadside assistance will always be available.

Both back rows of seats folded to show the open cargo area

All-new 2022 Grand Wagoneer rear interior cargo space (94.2 cu. ft. with second and third rows folded flat).

Why Buy the Grand Wagoneer?

It’s not a Jeep, it’s a Wagoneer — the only Jeep ID on the vehicle is in the headlight lenses. The Grand Wagoneer is grand luxury, not a Rubicon Trail-tested SUV. The elite dealership support and promises should be reassuring to new customers and conquests to the brand.

Despite the considerable sticker prices for these big vehicles, customers generally have incomes that make high fuel prices more of an inconvenience than a reason to reject such vehicles, auto-analyst Kim said. “The segment should remain strong in the coming years as lots of product action in that space will keep consumers interested and engaged.”

A rear view of the Grand Wagoneer

The Wagoneer customer experience includes 10 promises and dedicated client services.

2022 Grand Wagoneer Series III Specifications

Body style: large, 5-door, 7-seat body-on-frame SUV with two-speed electronically controlled 4WD

Engine: 471-hp 6.4-liter V-8 with fuel-saver mode and active grille shutters; 455 lb.-ft. torque at 4,400 rpm

Transmission: 8-speed Torqueflite 8HP75 automatic

4WD system: 2-speed electronically shifted transfer case; variable (50/50 or 100 front/rear) with traction modes of Automatic, Tow, Snow, Mud, Sand, Rock, and Sport

Fuel economy: 13/18/15 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel recommended

Towing capacity: 9,850 pounds, with included Class IV receiver hitch and 7- and 4-pin wiring harness

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 26.5 gallons

Cargo space: 27.4/70.9/116.7 cubic feet, behind 3rd row/2nd row/front seats

Front head/leg room: 41.3/40.9 inches

2nd-row head/leg room: 40/42.7 inches

3rd-row head/leg room: 39/36.6 inches

Length/wheelbase: 214.7/123 inches

Width/height: 94*/76.6 inches *at the mirrors

Curb weight: 6,420 pounds

Turning circle: 38 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Keyless entry and push-button ignition, quilted Palermo leather-trimmed massaging seats, power running boards, 20-way power adjustable front seats, 2nd-row captain’s chairs with power tilt and slide, power folding and heated side mirrors, 60/40 power folding and reclining 3rd-row seats,  hands-free power liftgate, heated and ventilated front and 2nd-row seats, 12.3-inch cluster display, suede headliner, natural walnut interior trim, Uconnect 5 Nav with 12-inch touch screen display, integrated voice command with Bluetooth, 23-speaker McIntosh entertainment system, satellite radio with 6-month subscription, media hub with 2 USB ports and aux-in,tri-pane panoramic sunroof,  locking and lighted glove box, 4-zone automatic climate control, luxury front and rear floor mats, reversible floor mat, foldable cargo shade, roof rack with adjustable roof-rail crossbars, rear back-up-camera washer.

Driving features and technologies: head-up display, automatic headlights and high-beam control, map-in-cluster display, off-road info pages, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, ParkSense automated parking system, ParkSense front and rear park- assist with stop, night vision with pedestrian and animal detection, remote-start system, side distance warning, traffic sign recognition, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot (trial included), automatic crash-notification service, connected travel and traffic services, Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto, power-adjustable pedals (with memory sets), wireless charging pad, electric parking brake, digital rearview camera mirror, observation mirror, rear seat monitoring camera, acoustic-laminated windshield and front side glass, active noise-control system, LED exterior lighting with 3-optic fog lamps with cornering, 360-degree surround-view camera system.

Safety features include: 8 air bags, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, active lane management, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross path detection, intersection collision assist, rear park assist sensors with stop, all-speed traction control, electronic stability control, brake assist, hill-start assist.

PRICING

Series III base price: $109,995, including $2,000 freight charge; price as tested $116,720

Options on test vehicle:

  • Midnight Sky paint $645;
  • Heavy-duty trailer-tow package, $995, adds a trailer-brake control, chrome tow hooks, trailer-hitch lineup assist, trailer-hitch zoom, removable rear tow hook, heavy-duty engine cooling;
  • Rear-seat entertainment group, $2,195, includes Amazon Fire TV built-in;
  • 22-inch machined aluminum wheels with black noise pockets $1,595;
  • Embossed-metal interior accents $1,295

Where assembled: Warren (Michigan) Truck Assembly Plant

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain; roadside assistance 5-years/60,000-miles

The New Dodge Challenger Convertible

by | Aug 16, 2022 | 0 comments

The New Dodge Challenger Convertible

The Drop Top Customs third-party Challenger convertible-top option will have a retail price of $25,999, though final pricing will be negotiated and confirmed with the dealer

A front three-quarter view of the new Challenger convertible made by Drop Top Customs

Dodge dealerships will provide an expedited ordering process for the 2022 Dodge Challenger through Drop Top Customs. (Photos courtesy of Stellantis)

BY MARK MAYNARD

Dodge peeled back the roof on a new third-party Challenger convertible during its three-day Dodge Speed Week event. The three-day event features three nights of Dodge product reveals on Aug. 15, 16, and 17, 2022. The series wraps up on Aug. 20 with a big Dodge brand display in conjunction with the Modern Street Hemi Shootout group
on Aug. 20 during the Dream Cruise Weekend.
.
The 2022 Dodge Challenger convertible will be the first convertible Challenger since the 1970 and 1971 model years for the original muscle car.

“Last Call” for ICE Muscle

Parent company Stellantis is using the event to signal a “Last Call” to its Dodge Challenger and Charger, which will be phased out of production at the end of 2023. Among the debuts at Dodge Speed Week was the 710-hp, 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat.

A 710 horsepower 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

The 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat in the newly available color of Frostbite.

“While we hit the throttle toward our new performance path, Dodge is also having fun on this victory lap by celebrating decades of muscle car power,” said Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand chief executive officer, Stellantis. The future of performance for Dodge will be electrified, Kuniskis has said.

“What better way to commemorate how far we’ve come than to make it easier for Dodge Challenger customers to create a throwback convertible look,” Kuniskis said in a release.

Each 2023 Charger and Challenger will have a “Last Call” under-hood plaque with the vehicle name and silhouette showing their origin as “Designed in Auburn Hills” and “Assembled in Brampton.”

A side view of the Challenger convertible with the top down

The conversion will feature a padded roof and a heated glass rear window.

Challenger Convertible Ordering Process

Dodge dealerships will offer an expedited ordering process for third-party convertible modifications for the 2022 Dodge Challenger through Drop Top Customs. It is considered the oldest convertible coachbuilder in the U.S. and is based in Florida.

The new, integrated transportation ordering process allows customers to place third-party orders and pick up finished vehicles through participating Dodge dealers.

Dodge dealerships in the U.S. will begin taking retail convertible transportation orders on Aug. 16, 2022. Convertible third-party modifications through Drop Top Customs will also be available for the 2023 Dodge Challenger when orders open for the new model year.

Customers will work closely with Drop Top Customs and their Dodge dealership to order the vehicle to their specifications. Dodge dealerships will schedule unmodified customer vehicles to ship directly from Stellantis’ Brampton (Ontario, Canada) Assembly Plant to Drop Top Customs. Dodge says that the process will provide a more efficient build time, and allows owners to take the keys after completion.

Expedited shipment option to Drop Top Customs will be available for 2022 and 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and all Challenger SRT models.

A view of the open trunk space

Trunk space, to boot.

Challenger Convertible Pricing

The Drop Top Customs third-party Challenger convertible-top option will have a retail price of $25,999. However, final pricing will be negotiated and confirmed with the dealer.

Additional ordering information, including warranty information, is available through Drop Top Customs.

A convertible with the top up

The convertible conversions feature a fully hydraulic power top.

Drop Top Customs

Drop Top Customs has 46 years of modification experience, creating convertibles, including modern-era Dodge Challenger convertibles. The convertible conversions feature a fully hydraulic power top. Structural reinforcements will reduce body flex while retaining interior space. A padded roof and heated glass rear window provide sound and temperature insulation.

Learn more at Drop Top Customs www.droptopchallenger.com.

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Review

by | Aug 4, 2022 | 0 comments

Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Review

The 797-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak is a throwback union of old school and new school

The red Challenger with a Navy recruit training ship in the background

The 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak starts at $87,120. Today’s tester was $97,077 with 12 options and the $2,100 gas-guzzler tax. (Photography by Mark Maynard)

Table of Contents

Overview
Challenger Then and Now
Pricing
Dodge Challenger Build Order
SRT Hellcat V-8s
Jailbreak Performance
Why Buy the Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

I heard the car pull up before I saw it, and when I saw it, I muttered the enthusiast’s silent prayer, which goes something like: “Jeeziz, keep me from my own undoing.” I was looking at a 797-horsepower 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Widebody.

Driving this week’s test car, in its TorRed paint and a straight-through exhaust hustle, I’d be guilty until proven innocent.

The supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine tinked and tokked as it cooled. With its 12-inch-wide Pirelli P Zero gumshoe-sticky tires and body widened 3.5 inches by pronounced fender flares, the Challenger Jailbreak has the stance of a predator. Yet, the bright red paint and Warp-Speed satin carbon chrome wheels made it appear less of a hooligan and just gloriously badass.

First impressions might be to hate this musclebound coupe for its gas-guzzling ways. It’s a throwback, but there just ain’t nothing wrong with being all ate up with motor, even as it inhales premium-unleaded fuel.

As a five-seat sport coupe, the Challenger has some utility. The wife of a vintage-racing friend told her husband, who was considering a Hellcat: “Go ahead and get it, honey. It has a back seat, a big trunk, and the back seat folds.”

The Challenger is a big two-door with distinct American features. It has big front headroom of 39.3 inches and long legroom of 42 inches. Sightlines are unimpeded for cornering, and the 38.7-foot turning circle is quite manageable.

The ride quality can be comfortable, and the standard equipment list is mostly competitive. But the aging architecture is apparent in the lack of small-item storage, wireless charging, or even a dedicated place to lay a phone.

But when it comes to performance hardware and engineering, the Challenger SRT Hellcats are fully functional.

A underbody view of the Challenger exhaust system

The 2.75-inch electronically controlled, straight-through active exhaust system.

2022 Dodge Challenger Overview

The Dodge Challenger is old school and new school — and the same goes for those who embrace this champion of the Mopar Nation.

This big pony car has been in production so long — 14 years — that whatever wasn’t right has been made right. J.D. Power — a juggernaut among automotive research firms — named the Dodge Challenger the “Best Midsize Sporty Car of 2022.”

With detailed survey feedback from verified car owners, J.D. Power gives the Challenger an 85 out of 100 rating. The ratings include an overall rating and sub-ratings for quality and reliability (40 percent), driving experience (20 percent), resale value (20 percent), and dealership experience (20 percent).

The flat-bottom SRT steering wheel

The leather-wrapped flat-bottom and heated SRT steering wheel.

Dodge Challenger Then and Now

The Dodge Challenger is among the more elevated and choice-optimized sport coupes in modern history. It goes way beyond its spiritual predecessor of the 1970-1974 Dodge Challenger pony car. And even it had eight engine choices, which ranged from the Slant 6 (aka, “Leaning Tower of Power”) to the legendary 426-cubic-inch Hemi V-8 and the even more powerful 7.2-liter 440 V-8.

There were less illustrious “Challenger” models, too. The 1978-1983 “badge engineered” Mitsubishi Galant coupe was hopeful but hollow of performance. It was a dreadful offering during the 1980s “malaise” years in American cars, performance or otherwise.

And here’s a note of trivia. Dodge first applied the Challenger nameplate in 1959 for the “value version” of its full-sized Coronet Silver Challenger.

The modern-era Dodge Challenger has been the golden Hellcat of sales. It was early 2008 when the current generation made its U.S. debut. And the Challenger has rode out its 14 years with the same basic chassis architecture but with a few face-lifts, dozens of fresh option packages, and iconic paint colors. The current-gen Challenger was introduced in 2014 for the 2015 model year.

Through 2021, the Dodge Challenger has racked up 645,509 U.S. sales since 2008, backed up by 19,856 in Canada, 4,603 in Mexico, and 3,077 from Europe. The grand total comes to 673,045, according to the Challenger page on Wikipedia. Last year there were 54,314 Challengers sold in the U.S. . So far in 2022, the Challenger has brought in 25,682 sales, down just 3 percent from the second quarter of 2021.

And all that while weathering a pandemic, gasoline crisis, and the pangs of a threatening recession.

An open view inthe driver's side of the Challenger with the two-tone black-and-gray Laguna leather option

The Challenger has a tall 39.3 inches of front headroom.

The End Is Near, or might be

Alas, all good things come to an end, at least for Hellcat models.

According to a report in Automotive News,  Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis is quoted in a report that the supercharged models are in their last days. Redesigned versions of the Charger and Challenger muscle cars are expected to move to Stellantis’ electrified STLA Large platform, which is capable of up to 500 miles of range.

“I will have this car, this platform, this powertrain as we know it, through the end of ‘23,” Kuniskis said in an interview during the 2021 Los Angeles Auto Show. “There’s two more years to buy a Hellcat, then it’s history.”

Dodge has said it plans to unveil an electric concept car that will give enthusiasts a taste of what’s to come when it debuts an electric muscle car in 2024. There is speculation that the upcoming vehicles could be an electric speedster and a plug-in hybrid.

The long gearshift console in the Jailbreak

All of the usual accommodations, except wireless charging.

Dodge Challenger Build Order

There are nine trim levels to the 2022 Dodge Challenger, with:

  • 6 choices for horsepower: One V-6 and five V-8 engines;
  • 2 choices of transmissions: six-speed manual (on certain trim levels) or eight-speed AutoStick automatic, with specific beefiness for each V-8, and;
  • Rear- or all-wheel drive (available on some models).

Paint colors

You have to love the marketing creativity of paint-color names for the 2022 Challenger:

  • Frostbite
  • F8 Green
  • Go Mango
  • Granite
  • Hellraisin
  • Indigo Blue
  • Octane Red
  • Pitch Black
  • Sinamon Stick
  • Smoke Show
  • TorRed
  • Triple Nickel
  • White Knuckle
The SRT performance page in the color infotainment touchscreen

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat SRT Performance Dashboard showing Sport mode.

SRT Hellcat V-8s

Decisions, decisions when it comes to power, but most Mopar disciples will buy the most their budget allows. There are five V-8s from which to choose:

375-hp 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 with fuel-saver (cylinder shutoff) technology

485-hp 392 Hemi V-8 SRT

717-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat V-8

797-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8

807-hp supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8
Challenger SRT Super Stock.

The 797 horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 in the Challenger

797-hp, supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8.

2022 Dodge Challenger Pricing

Starting prices range from $32,025 for the entry Challenger SXT with 303-hp 3.6-liter V-6 to $89,125 for the Challenger SRT Super Stock. Pricing includes the $2,100 gas-guzzler tax and the $1,595 freight charge from Brampton, Ontario, Canada.

Today’s 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak starts at $87,120 and was $97,077 with 12 options and the $2,100 gas-guzzler tax.

The $18,595 Jailbreak 27D package includes: a 220-mph speedometer, widebody fender flares, high-performance engine controller, widebody competition suspension, instrument panel Jailbreak badge, and SRT power chiller, which uses air conditioning refrigerant to further cool the air fed to the supercharged engine.
And that is just the tip of the options list. Buyers of the Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak can order unrestricted option combinations.

Among the more than 20 categories of upgrades are:

  • 7 choices for seats, body stripes, and wheels;
  • 6 brake caliper colors;
  • 5 exterior badging finishes;
  • 4 choices of steering wheels, seat belt colors, and floor mats, and;
  • 13 paint colors. 3 are no-cost, the others range in cost from $95 to $395;
The driver side interior door panel has a bottle holder and a small stash space

Carved-out elbow room at the door panels.

Buyer Be Aware

Challenger (and Charger) Hellcat buyers should know that the Monroney price is merely a suggestion. Dealers are routinely charging $20,000 and more above the sticker. Check the MoparInsider website for more details.

For current Dodge Challenger pricing and incentives, check the factory website here. . And Dodge is currently offering a National Retail Consumer Cash (22CN1) discount of $1,000.

Looking into the front passenger side of the Jailbreak

The front passenger has just manual adjustment.

Challenger Jailbreak Performance

The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Jailbreak runs with the 797-hp high-output V-8. Car and Driver says the Jailbreak can accelerate to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 203 mph.

Everybody loves a whiner when it’s the sound made by the Hellcat’s 2.7-liter supercharger, which spools up 14.5 pounds of boost. On hard acceleration, the supercharger’s industrial whine harmonizes with the gutty bellow of the Hellcat V-8 for a near-religious experience: “Sweet Jesus, take me home.”

As comfortable as a grand-tourer can be, the Challenger Jailbreak is not my choice for a road trip. There is significant drone in the cabin at highway speeds. And then there is the fuel-economy consideration.

Fuel economy ratings are a hopeful 13 mpg city, 21 highway, and 15 mpg combined using the required premium fuel. I might have been averaging 15 mpg, and the 18.5-gallon tank provides the range of a decent electric vehicle.

One of the 12-inch-wide Pirelli P Zero high-performance tires on the Jailbreakance grip, front and rear.

12 inches of 20-inch Pirelli P Zero 305/35ZR 20 all-season performance grip, front and rear.

Challenger Transmissions

Some models of Challenger models have the choice of a six-speed manual transmission — R/T, Scat Pack, and SRT Hellcat. The Tremec TR-6060 features a twin-disc clutch and has the much-hated first-to-fourth-gear skip shift.

Hellcats with the high-output V-8 are uprated with a heavy-duty Torqueflite 8HP90 eight-speed automatic. It rolls through the gears with fuel-saving precision in the standard drive mode. Punch up Sport on the touchscreen, and steering, suspension, and shift points sharpen but are not overly aggressive. The Torqueflite also allows manual control. Gear changes can be made at the gear shift or steering-wheel paddle shifters with three SRT selectable performance modes of Street, Sport, and Track.

The AutoStick is probably easier on tires than the manual. But hit the gas and concentrate on steering as the Pirellis light up. The 20-inch rollers (305/35ZR) are of such a grippy recipe that some owners run through a set in four months. With restraint, the tires can last a year. Replacements for the Pirelli P Zero summer performance tires cost around $400 a pop.

The Pirellis contribute to a cushioned ride quality and extreme adhesion, whether in cornering at speed or in launch control. Tires are essential to suspension and car control, so don’t cheap out.

With a curb weight of 4,481 pounds, the Hellcat is more of a barrel-chested straight-line blacktop pounder than a road-course interceptor.

Unfortunately, the Active Exhaust lustily rumbles out the call to let ’er rip. Standard on all Hemi V-8 models, the dual 2.75-inch straight-through exhaust pipes have twin electronic exhaust valves. Black Vapor-chromed tips finish the appearance.

The pair of back seats in the Challenger

Get in, shut up and just hold on.

Why Buy the Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak?

Buy it now because you’ve always wanted a Hellcat. An 800-horsepower coupe is not a need, but neither is a four-carat diamond ring, which, if it is of high quality, can cost as much as a stock Hellcat.

Damn the price of gas, full speed ahead.

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said, “The muscle cars are a very nice niche business that is now being prepared for full electrification with some amazing innovations that will bring even more passion from the fans of this brand in the near future.”

A rear three-quarter view of the red Challenger Jailbreak

The widebody treatment adds 3.5 inches at the fenders for an overall width of 78.3 inches.

Dodge Challenger SRT Jailbreak

Specifications

Body style: midsize, 5-seat 2-door rear-wheel-drive coupe

Engine: supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi Hellcat high-output V-8; 797-hp at 6,300 rpm; 707 lb.-ft. torque at 4,500 rpm

Transmission: Torqueflite 8HP90 8-speed AutoStick automatic; adaptive electronic control with full manual control via gear selector or paddle shifters with 3 SRT-unique selectable modes: Street, Sport, and Track (features performance shifting and gear holding)

Fuel economy: 13/21/15 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium 91 octane fuel required

Top speed: 203 mph (per Car and Driver)

0-60 mph acceleration: 3.7 seconds (per Car and Driver)

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Trunk space: 16.2 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 39.3/42 inches

Rear head/leg room: 37.1/33.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 197.5/116 inches

Curb weight: 4,481 pounds

Turning circle: 38.7 feet

FEATURES

Standard Hellcat equipment includes: smart-key locking and push-button ignition, LED interior lighting, six-way power driver’s seat with lumbar, manual front passenger seat, heated front seats, power side mirrors, split-folding back seat, floor mats, leather-wrapped flat-bottom (heated) SRT steering wheel, leather-wrapped shift handle, tilt-telescoping steering column, Uconnect 4C infotainment with 8.4-inch color display (music, climate controls, and vehicle
Information), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 6-speaker Alpine audio system, satellite radio (trial subscription), integrated voice command, Bluetooth, phone and streaming audio, a media hub with audio input jack and two USB ports

SRT performance equipment: 2 ignition keys (one red and one black, which holds power at 500 hp), SRT Track Experience (DodgeGarage.com/SRT), competition suspension, Brembo 6-piston front calipers, line lock, anti-spin differential rear axle, launch control with launch assist, dual scoop hood, conical cold air intake, after-run chiller, active exhaust, SRT configurable drive modes, SRT performance pages, performance shift indicator;

Safety features include: 6 air bags, electronic roll mitigation, stability and all-speed traction controls, hill-start assist, ParkView rearview camera with guidance lines, ParkSense rear park-assist system, rain-brake support, and ready-alert braking;

PRICING

SRT Jailbreak base price: $87,120, including $1,595 freight charge and $2,100 gas-guzzler; price as tested $97,077

Options on test vehicle: Hammerhead-gray seat belts $395; Hammerhead Gray floor mat binding $99; Black and Hammerhead-Gray seats $295; satin chrome exterior badges; 305/35ZR Pirelli P Zero summer performance tires $695; Uconnect 4C Navigation with 8.4-inch color touchscreen display, $995, with 5-year subscriptions for SiriusXM Travel Link and Travel Plus; 20-inch-by-11-inch Warp Speed satin carbon wheels $1,295; chrome fuel-filler door $9;

SRT Jailbreak package, $18,595, includes: widebody fender flares, widebody competition suspension, SRT Power Chiller, 220 mph speedometer, high-performance engine controller, and Jailbreak dashboard badge

TorqueFlite 8-speed AutoStick transmission (standard) with steering wheel shift control and remote start;

Laguna leather front seats with SRT Hellcat logo, $3,890, package includes ventilated front seats, Laguna leather door trim, stitched dash top, memory presets for driver-radio-mirrors, power tilt-telescoping steering column;

Driver convenience group, $1,295, power side mirrors with manual fold function, HID headlights, blind-spot and rear cross-path detection;

Harmon Kardon 18-speaker, surround-sound audio system with subwoofer and GreenEdge amplifier $1,995;

Where assembled: Brampton Assembly Plant, Ontario, Canada

Warranty: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain

Volkswagen Atlas VR6 4Motion Review

by | Jul 29, 2022 | 0 comments

Volkswagen Atlas VR6 4Motion Review

 2022 Volkswagen Atlas is all about family function and interior space with voluminous cargo capacity

A front three quarter view of the 2022 Volkswagen Atlas in Aurora Red metallic paint

2022 Volkswagen Atlas starting prices range from $35,630 for the front-drive SE with 2.0-liter four-cylinder to $52,800 for the SEL Premium R-Line with 4Motion and 3.6-liter VR6. (Photos by Mark Maynard)

Table of Contents

What’s new for 2022
Pricing
Powertrains
Safety Features
Ride and Handling
Interior Function
What’s New for 2023
Why Buy the VW Atlas VR6?
2022 VW Atlas V6 Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The Volkswagen Atlas SUV has a split personality and two body styles to express itself. The midsize Atlas is Volkswagen’s largest SUV. It debuted for U.S. sales in 2017, and VW has made evolutionary updates ever since. In 2020, VW unveiled the Atlas Cross Sport, a fastback version of the full-bodied Atlas. And last year, the Atlas was given a style freshening that added a new front end (based on the Atlas Cross Sport), redesigned wheels, new rear lights, and a new steering wheel.

Either body style has a choice of two powertrains: a 235-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a non-turbo 276-hp 3.6-liter VR6. All models are available with standard front-wheel drive or optional 4Motion all-wheel drive. Both engines transfer power via an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

The Volkswagen Atlas is among at least 11 competing SUVs with three rows and all-wheel drive: Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Telluride (and corporate partner Hyundai Palisade), Mazda CX-9, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Highlander.

The steering wheel of the Atlas

Standard SEL features include keyless entry and push-button ignition, leather-trimmed upholstery, wireless phone charger, overhead view camera, and Fender audio.

Two Bodies, Two Styles

The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is affordable executive transport and a fastback style statement. The optional back seat captain’s chairs have limo-like comfort with long-reach legroom of 40.4 inches.

The full-body Atlas is all about family function and interior space with voluminous cargo capacity.

Looking into the driver's door of the Atlas

The driver seat has 10-way power adjustment.

What’s New About Atlas for 2022

The VW Atlas lineup was streamlined to six trims for the 2022 model year — SE, SE Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line, the new SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line.

The SE model now has an 8-inch Digital Cockpit gauge array. The SE with Technology models add USB-C ports for the third row and a standard trailer hitch for models equipped with the VR6 engine, and there is an option package for 20-inch black wheels.

4Motion is now standard on SEL models, as are machined 20-inch wheels. The R-Line Black package features black 20-inch wheels and black R-Line badging. R-Line is standard on the SEL Premium and adds 21-inch wheels.

The back up camera in the Atlas has guidance lines

A wide, viewable backup camera with guidance lines.

2022 VW Atlas Pricing

VW Atlas starting prices range from $35,630 for the front-drive SE with 2.0-liter four-cylinder to $52,800 for the SEL Premium R-Line with 4Motion and 3.6-liter VR6. Pricing includes the $1,295 freight charge from Chattanooga, Tenn.

Today’s tester is an SEL Premium R-Line 4Motion for $53,890. It had just two options of Aurora Red metallic paint ($395) and second-row captain’s chairs ($695).

Find current VW Atlas pricing here.

And check on available special offers here.

Looking into the front passenger door of the Atlas

The front passenger seat has eight-way power adjustment.

Atlas Powertrains

The Atlas VR6 is a balance of power and fuel-economy ratings. The direct-injected 3.6-liter has a peak 266 foot-pounds of torque at 3,600 rpm. The power picks up quickly from a start, and then the Tiptronic transmission upshifts quickly to get into fuel-saving gear ratios.

Sport mode sharpens acceleration and shift points, and I used it frequently. Tooling around in Sport mode didn’t seem to affect my average fuel economy all that much. And the force of power was worth sacrificing a few mpgs.

Fellow car critics say the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine will be adequate for most needs. But those who tow will want the V-6.

And there’s not much mileage incentive to go for the four.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter has fuel economy ratings of 21/25/23 mpg city/highway/combined, and the ratings are nearly the same with AWD at 20/24/22 mpg. (Mileage ratings are the same for the Atlas Cross Sport.)

The VR6 has EPA ratings of 18/24/20 mpg front-drive or 17/23/19 mpg AWD. The good news is that both engines use the recommended 87 octane fuel.

I worked up to an average of 17.2 mpg in highway driving, with liberal use of Sport mode.

The VW Atlas V6 engine

The 276-hp 3.6-liter VR6 can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

4Motion Active Control

In everyday driving, the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system uses an electronic clutch on the rear axle that lets the rear wheels rotate while the front wheels power the Atlas.

Even when not engaged, the 4Motion system measures the wheel speed multiple times a second, looking for signs of wheel slip. The software responds so quickly that AWD will engage before the front wheels lose traction. The system can direct up to 50 percent of the engine’s power to the rear axle. If an individual wheel begins to slip, electronic stability control can slow it down, sending more power to the wheel on the opposite side with traction.

The Active Control system (available with either engine) has four modes for different surfaces: Onroad for daily driving, Snow, Offroad, and Offroad Custom, which varies engine power, transmission shifts, and other parameters, VW says.

The Atlas steering wheel with digital gauge array

The Digital Cockpit Pro has driver-changeable screen displays.

Atlas Safety Features

Volkswagen loaded up the Atlas with standard safety features, not the least of which are six air bags and engine braking assist. EBA is a safeguard in the event of a hard downshift, which could cause a skid due to the reduced gear ratio and engine compression. Volkswagen’s system uses wheel-speed sensors to monitor the drive wheels for slippage and modulates engine-braking torque to prevent skidding.

Standard on SEL trims, the IQ.DRIVE system is the foundation for Travel Assist, semi-automated driving assistance. The system uses front and rear radar, a front camera, and ultrasound sensors to collect data from the surrounding area.

Semi-autonomous Travel Assist allows hands-on driving assistance from 0 to 95 mph. The system uses adaptive cruise control and lane assist to help to steer, center the vehicle within lane markings, accelerate and brake the vehicle in response to traffic. The steering wheel is embedded with touch-sensitive technology (capacitive) to supervise that the driver’s hands are on the wheel. If not, the system gives an alert and a warning message in the driver-info screen.

Travel Assist gives good lane centering on the interstate. And I appreciated that warnings were few and without a blaring alert. The semi-autonomous function is at its best in heavy commuting traffic, particularly along stretches of construction with narrow lanes. The all-seeing support is reassuring, but always keep both hands on the steering wheel.

Advanced technologies layered into IQ.DRIVE include:

Front Assist (Forward Collision Warning and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian monitoring);

Active Side Assist (blind-spot monitor);

Rear Traffic Alert;

Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go;

Lane Assist (lane-keeping system);

Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency).

LED headlights of the Atlas

900-lumen LED headlights turn a few degrees with the steering wheel.

Atlas VR6 4Motion Ride and Handling

There is bullish durability in how solidly the Atlas V-6 feels on the road and yet how deftly it manages the tester’s hefty all-wheel-drive curb weight of 4,605 pounds.

I bonded with the lush rotation of the electric steering and how easily I trolled for mall parking. The official turning circle is 40.5 feet, but it seems much tighter as the big SUV curls easily into parking slots. The wide-screen camera with an overhead view is helpful when parking, but a front view would be beneficial, too.

The Atlas is not quick in its handling, but the steering and suspension allow the Atlas to power through highway exit loops with steady control. The ride quality is comfortable, for a German-engineered SUV, with some bounding over intersection transitions.

Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires have a wide footprint (265/45) and roll quite smoothly. Braking is solid and without grab or nosedive from four-wheel discs; 13.2-inch vented rotors front and 12.2-inch solid rear rotors.

21 inches Pirelli Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires

The test vehicle’s 21-inch Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires.

Interior Function

As Volkswagen’s largest SUV, “large” seems to be a design theme for Atlas. Its cabin is a little wider than 5.1 feet, and in between is prime space for generous elbow room and ergonomic placement of controls and conveniences.

There are levels of storage areas, such as nooks, trays, multifunctioning door panels, and a large locking glovebox. An e-bin on the shift console has two charging USB ports and a wireless charging pad. The deep center armrest console hides another USB port.

The SEL Premium cabin is well soundproofed and well stocked with creature comforts and useful electronics. But plain-looking black plastic in lower areas of the cabin detracts from the presence of a $50,000 vehicle.

SEL models include a 10-way power driver seat with lumbar and an eight-way power front passenger seat. And both seats are heated and ventilated. After a couple of hours on the road, the seat bottoms might feel too firm for some.

Front headroom without the sunroof is 41.3 inches or still tall at 40.3 with the big sunroof.

Sightlines are somewhat complicated by large side mirrors and the broad base of the windshield pillars, which are good for roof-crush standards. But the mirrors can block views of vehicles and pedestrians when turning at intersections. Over-the-shoulder views are unimpeded.

An open view of the panoramic sunroof in the VW Atlas.

The standard panoramic moonroof provides a back seat cinematic experience.

Back Seats and Cargo

A view of the second row seats with both doors open

Second-row captain’s chairs are a worthwhile $695 upgrade. The third row can be accessed even with child seats in the second row.

Second-row captain’s chairs are a worthwhile $695 upgrade; few will miss that skinny center position on the standard bench. The captain’s chairs recline a few inches and have adjustable-height armrests, which fold when folding the seats. And the seats have an easy tip function for access to the third row.

Legroom in the second row is adult class at 37.6 inches. And there still is accommodating length when the front passenger seat is powered rearward.

  • The third row is a kid hangout but well-appointed to keep youngsters quiet and occupied. Legroom of 33.7 inches is an inch or two more than in the three-row competitors. Extras include:
  •  Overhead lights;
  • Cup-can-munchie holders;
  • A 12-volt plug;
  • Two C-type USBs ports with a phone nook (on the left side).

When not needed, the pair of seats fold flat for cargo capacity of 20.6 cubic feet, stacked to the headliner. Fold both rows of seats for a little more than 7 feet in length.

The cargo opening is wide at 47 inches with an entry height of 33 1/2 inches. The area includes cargo-net hooks, four tie-downs, and side lights. Under the cargo floor is the big Fender speaker and a nifty slot to stow the optional roller cover ($189) when not needed.

The open cargo area with seats folded

Fold both rows of seats for more than 7 feet in cargo length.

What’s New for the 2023 VW Atlas

The 2023 Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport will be in dealerships soon, with just a few changes from 2022. Both body styles will be available in five trims of SE, SE Technology, SEL, SEL R-Line Black, and SEL Premium R-Line. SE Technology models add the 10.25-inch fully configurable Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro.

Starting prices were raised modestly for both body styles. The 2023 Atlas SE 2.0-liter starts at $35,895 with front-wheel drive and $37,795 for the SE with 4Motion. The VR6 engine is available on the Atlas SE Technology and above, starting at $41,815 with front-drive and $43,715 with 4Motion AWD. MSRPs include the $1,295 freight charge.

2023 Atlas Cross Sport

Starting prices for the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport 2.0-liter will start at $35,205 for the SE with front-wheel drive and $37,105 for the SE 4Motion. The VR6 engine is available on the Atlas Cross Sport SE Technology models and above; pricing starts at $41,125 for front-drive models and $43,025 with 4Motion. Pricing includes the freight charge of $1,295.

Why Buy the Volkswagen Atlas VR6?

The VW Atlas is an M-word alternative. This durable SUV has almost all the family function of a minivan without the sliding doors, or raised eyebrows from friends.

Volkswagen is transitioning to electric powertrains, but it will take time before a mainstream SUV has the battery performance to haul a 5,000-pound trailer for a road trip.

For those challenged to find available vehicles on dealer lots, a quick check at VW.com showed plenty of Atlas SE models available, whether on the West or East Coast.

A typical disclaimer at nearly all carmaker consumer sites is an advisory such as this at VW.com:

“We’re sorry, availability of some equipment, options or features may be limited due to global supply issues affecting the auto industry. Please continue to build your vehicle and request a quote, but be sure to verify that the vehicle you purchase includes all expected features and equipment.”

A rear three quarter view of the Atlas at a San Diego boat launch

Exterior features of the SEL Premium include a hands-free easy-open liftgate with remote opening and closing, LED taillights, silver roof rails, and a trailer hitch.

2022 Volkswagen Atlas VR6 SEL Premium R-Line Specifications

Body style: midsize, 6- or 7-seat SUV with 4Motion AWD

Engine: 276-hp, DOHC, 24-valve and direct-injected 3.6-liter VR6 with idle stop-start; 266 lb.-ft. torque at 3,600 rpm

Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic automatic with Sport mode;

4Motion Fuel economy: 17/23/19 mpg city/hwy/combined; 87 octane recommended

BY THE NUMBERS

Towing capacity: 5,000 pounds with braked trailer

Fuel tank: 18.6 gallons

Cargo space: 20.6 to 55.5 cubic feet behind 3rd and 2nd rows

Front head/leg room: 41.3/41.7 inches

2nd-row head/leg room: 40.4/37.6 inches

3rd-row head/leg room: 38.3/33.7 inches

Length/wheelbase: 200.7/117.3 inches

Curb weight: 4,605 pounds

Turning circle: 40.5 feet

FEATURES

Standard SEL Premium exterior equipment includes: all-weather lights with low-speed corner illumination, automatic headlights with arriving/leaving feature, hands-free easy open liftgate with remote opening and closing, heated windshield washer nozzles, 2 front USB-C data ports, 1 center USB-C charging port, 2 rear USB-C charging ports, LED performance headlights with LED daytime running lights and LED taillights, power tilt-slide panoramic sunroof, power heated and power-folding side mirrors with memory, rain-sensing windshield wipers, silver roof rails, trailer hitch with 5,000-pound towing capacity;

Standard SEL Premium interior equipment includes: Keyless entry and push-button ignition, digital cockpit pro (gauge display), wireless phone charger, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming, adaptive cruise control, overhead view camera, Discover Media touch-screen navigation system with 8-inch color display (with radio and voice control and travel assist), Fender premium audio system, satellite radio with 3-month trial subscription, App-Connect with wireless capability, leather-trimmed upholstery for 1st and 2nd rows, heated front seats and 2nd-row window seats, ventilated front seats, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar and memory preset, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Climatronic 3-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting and LED interior lighting, a 115-volt power outlet, and remote start;

R-Line equipment includes: R-Line side skirts, front and rear bumper treatments with stylized air intakes at the front and a diffusor in glossy black paint at the rear, 21-inch two-tone matte dark-graphite alloy wheels with 265/45 all-season tires;

Safety features include: 6 air bags, dynamic road sign display, electronic brake force distribution, engine brake assist, adaptive front lighting system, blind-spot monitor, rear traffic alert, forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking (front assist), park assist, park distance control with maneuver braking, pedestrian monitoring (included in front assist), lane assist, emergency assist, electronic stability control, anti-slip control, electronic differential lock;

PRICING

SEL Premium 4Motion base price: $52,800, including $1,295 freight charge; price as tested $53,890

Options on test vehicle: Aurora Red metallic paint $395 and second-row captain’s chairs $695

Where assembled: Chattanooga, Tenn.

Warranty: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper and powertrain; free scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 20,000 miles; 3-years/36,000-miles 24-hour roadside assistance

Subaru WRX Review

by | Jul 15, 2022 | 0 comments

Subaru WRX Review

Let’s get back to the basics of love, the love of driving: the new 2022 Subaru WRX

An exterior front three quarter view of a white 2022 Subaru WRX

The new 2022 Subaru WRX compact sport sedan is the fifth generation of this rally-bred icon. (Photos courtesy of Subaru or as credited)

Table of Contents

2022 Subaru WRX Overview
Pricing
Weight-Saving Designs
Powertrain and Fuel Economy
Ride and Handling
Interior Function
Why Buy the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

There is a simple mantra to driving the 2022 Subaru WRX six-speed manual: Rev, Engage, Shift, Smile, Repeat. Let those horizontally opposed pistons thrum.

And when the cornering gets tight, stab a heel-toe downshift, steady the wheel, look through the turn, power on, smile, grab a gear. And repeat.

The 2022 Subaru WRX is an all-wheel-drive, turbocharged four-cylinder compact-class sport sedan. It is a stealth S-snake hunter with impressive car control, sport-tuned transmission, and modest fuel economy.

This rowdy little “World Rally eXperimental” car was battle-tested in the World Rally Championships of the 1990s and early 2000s. I liked this unassuming all-wheel-drive performer from its first generation in the U.S., 1992-2000. It was distinctive in its Rally Blue hue and gold-painted wheels. The WRX has always been built tough and could be pumped up for 400 horsepower, and more.

Mainstream competitors of the Subaru WRX include the Honda Civic Si, Hyundai Elantra N, and the VW Golf GTI and Jetta GLI.

The driver area of the 2022 WRX

The driver area is simple and succinct.

2022 Subaru WRX Overview

For the first time, the 2022 WRX is built on the Subaru Global Platform. Subaru says it is a solid architecture for improved dynamics and reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness.

It also was given a new powertrain. The FA24F 2.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine continues with “boxer” horizontally opposed pistons. The engine spools up 271 hp and 258 foot-pounds of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. Engine updates this year included larger pistons, an electronically controlled wastegate, and air bypass valves.

WRX transmission choices are a new CVT, called the Subaru Performance Transmission, or a six-speed manual. The SPT all-wheel-drive system has variable torque distribution, while the manual transmission uses a center differential and viscous coupling.

The best news for the manual transmission is that there is no more rev-hang between shifts.

Large metal-and-rubber trimmed pedals

Big-foot metal-and-rubber trimmed pedals.

Models with the “Drive Mode Select System” get electronically controlled adaptive dampers, a first for the WRX.

Because of ever-increasing emissions regulations, Subaru says it will not offer a second-generation WRX STI high-performance model. At least not yet, and not with an internal-combustion engine.

But there is still STI attitude in the new 2022 WRX GT, the top trim level.

2022 Subaru WRX Pricing

For 2022, the Subaru WRX is sold in four trims of Base, Premium, Limited and GT.

Starting prices range from $30,600 for the Base model to $43,390 for the GT. MSRPs include the $995 freight charge from Gunma, Japan.

Add $1,850 to $2,050 (depending on trim level) for the Subaru Performance Transmission, a continuously variable transmission. The option also adds EyeSight Driver Assist Technology with advanced adaptive cruise control, auto vehicle hold, steering wheel paddle shifters, SI-Drive, and an electronic parking brake.

Standard Base model features include power windows, door locks, and side mirrors; dual USB input ports in the front center console; welcome lighting; remote keyless entry; combination gauge array with color display; roof rack mounting brackets; and 60/40 split fold-down rear seats.

Also included are 17-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires, multi-mode vehicle dynamics control with track mode, and incline start assist.

Standard on WRX is a new center information display with dual 7-inch high-resolution touch screens. The top screen controls smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, Bluetooth phone and audio, a rearview camera, and satellite radio and Travel Link. The bottom screen manages HVAC and vehicle settings.

No factory upgrade option packages are available for the Base model. But there are lots of accessories (for all trim levels). Among them are:

  • STI Duracon (manual) shift knob, $99.95
  • STI performance mufflers, $1,200
  • Stainless steel exhaust tips, $299.95
  • And a cool-looking cherry-red STI starter button, $249.95

Find current pricing and available incentives here.

The fabric seats in the WRX premium are grippy but not overly bolstered

The fabric seats are grippy without extreme bolstering.

Pricing Sweet Spot

Many WRX enthusiasts will find all the grip and grin they need in the Base model. But the WRX Premium, $31,605, is the sweet spot for added conveniences at a modest price.

Today’s tester is the WRX Premium, starting at $33,100. The tester included the Harman Kardon audio system (11 speakers) and power moonroof, $1,875. As tested, it cost $34,975.

Standard WRX Premium features include an upgrade to 18-inch alloy wheels in a dark gray finish, LED fog lights, a low-profile rear spoiler in body color, and automatic headlights with on and off when using the windshield wipers.

The Premium model also has standard keyless locking and push-button ignition. The premium black seat fabric is trimmed in red stitching. Other conveniences include dual automatic climate control with voice activation and dual USB charging ports in the rear center console. The standard All Weather Package adds heated front seats, side mirrors, and a windshield wiper deicer.

Also new for upper trim levels is a tablet-style high-definition center information display. The 11.6-inch Starlink Multimedia Plus system has direct-touch controls for multimedia, heat and AC, and vehicle settings. As with a smartphone, app icons on the touchscreen can be moved and configured based on personal preference. The new multimedia system also offers a split-screen display that can simultaneously show two types of information such as navigation and audio.

Weight-Saving Designs

The new wide-body WRX design strikes a powerful stance without being overhyped by a big rear wing or other fan-racer add-ons.

Aerodynamic improvements include an air outlet at the trailing edge of the front wheel opening. The outlet allows air to exit from the wheel well more freely, which reduces lift on the front tires for more grip and stability.

A white example of the aluminum WRX hood

The aluminum hood with integrated scoop.

Aluminum front fenders reduce the overall vehicle weight by 5 pounds, Subaru says. The hood, too, is aluminum, which helps lower the center of gravity.

With a curb weight of 3,320 pounds, the WRX manual is a relative lightweight when factoring its all-wheel drive. (Opting for the CVT adds just 137 pounds.) The usual sport-compact competitors of the WRX are front-wheel drive. For example, the Honda Civic Si weighs 2,952 lbs., the Hyundai Elantra N weighs 3,186 lbs., and the VW Jetta GLI is 3,272 lbs.

Other aero tricks include:

  • Another air outlet at each side of the rear bumper to reduce body sway due to air trapped behind the bumper;
  • Molded wheel arches and lower body trim have an aerodynamic texture to reduce air resistance;
  • An engine undercover also has an aerodynamic texture to help channel airflow and increase downforce at the front of the car.
The gauge array has bold features for optimum presentation under horsepower pressure

The gauge array has bold features for optimum presentation.

WRX Powertrain and Fuel Economy

The Subaru WRX is a visceral performer but not muscle-bound. The FA24F 2.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder engine has a clenched-teeth resolve to achieve the driver’s intent.

WRX performance can be lap-dog friendly or turn vicious with a big rev and downshift. And even the stock exhaust has a well-muscled and deep tone.

With peak torque of 258 lb.-ft., Car and Driver cite 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.5 seconds and the quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds at 101 mph.

The manual gearbox has a rewarding, rifle-bolt engagement with a comfortably sprung clutch. And Subaru’s hill-start assist brakes the WRX for a few seconds while the driver engages a gear. If all stick-shift cars had this simple tech, there would be many more manual-transmission users today.

Fuel economy ratings are 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 mpg combined. Premium fuel is recommended for peak performance. My test week’s average mileage ranged from 18.1 to 22.5 mpg. But for a small car, it has a big gas tank of 16.6-gallons.

For my modest mileage numbers, I blame — and praise — the manual transmission.

There is so much low-end pull that there is no need to rush the shifts. It’s a great second- and third-gear speedster. Roll on the power at 15 to 20 mph in second gear, and the engine will get up to speed quickly.

The 271 horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter 4 cylinder WRX engine

The FA24F 2.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine.

WRX Ride and Handling

The sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension is engineered for total car control. There is no front-end push and no rear rotational inertia. The car just sticks where the driver points it, within the bounds of physics.

At speed, the WRX runs flat and steady, but the ride quality of its stiff dampers can become monotonous on a long daily commute. And at 65 mph, the engine is spinning loudly at about 2,500 rpm.

The 18-inch Dunlop Sport Maxx GT 600 A (245/40) tires are a razor’s-edge match to the suspension. But enjoy these soft black erasers because they have a very low treadwear rating (UTQG) of 200. Low means better road adhesion. But these tires might not last a year of driving for the win — and replacements run $350 a pop.

Four-wheel disc braking gives an absolute response without nosedive. The front rotors have 12.4-inch ventilated discs and dual-piston calipers. At the rear are 11.4-inch ventilated discs with a single-piston caliper.

Quick-ratio electric power-assisted steering has light weight but precise resolve, with 2.5 turns lock-to-lock. The turning circle is a trim 36.7 feet, which compares to, or is better than, the front-drive competitors.

18-inch Dunlop Sport Maxx GT 600 A (245/40) tires

18-inch Dunlop Sport Maxx GT 600 A (245/40) tires. (Mark Maynard photo)

WRX Interior Function

The driver area is simple and succinct. The gauge array has bold and functional features for optimum presentation when pushing the redline.

The cabin is handsomely dressed in black with contrast red stitching and legitimate-looking carbon-fiber-pattern trim. The fabric front buckets are grippy in cornering, without extreme side bolstering. The driver’s seat is six-way manually adjustable and heated.

I especially enjoyed the flat-bottom steering wheel, the handbrake at driver’s right, and the big-foot metal-and-rubber trimmed pedals.

The Premium model’s 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system is big and bold but has limitations. While the tablet does have some physical controls for the climate system and stereo, selecting other functions is a two-touch process that sometimes takes eyes from the road. The tablet measures 9 inches across, but the viewable screen is just 6 inches wide, which makes for a narrow rear camera view.

The back seat is roomy enough for the kids, with max legroom of 36.5 inches.

The WRX back seats

With max legroom of 36.5 inches, the back seat is roomy enough for the kids.

Why Buy the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium?

There is a naked honesty to the stick-shift Subaru WRX Premium. There is plenty of power to feel the weight transitions and to coax a little more. There is no semi-autonomous drive mode, wireless charging, or advanced cruise control. But it has all the essentials for driving.

Let’s get back to the basics of love, the love of driving, in the 2022 Subaru WRX.

The new 2022 Subaru WRX is built on the Subaru Global Platform

The new 2022 Subaru WRX is built on the Subaru Global Platform.

2022 Subaru WRX Specifications

Body style: compact, 5-seat, 4-door AWD sedan with aluminum
hood and front fenders

Engine: 271-hp, turbocharged and direct injected 2.4-liter 4-cylinder; 258 lb.-ft. torque from 2,000-5,200 rpm

Maximum turbo boost: 12 psi

Transmission: 6-speed manual, with hill-start assist and SI-DRIVE
performance management

AWD system: Continuous all-wheel drive with viscous-coupling locking center differential and 50:50 torque split (transfers more torque to wheels with the best traction)

Fuel economy: 19/26/22 mpg; premium fuel recommended for peak performance

Suspension: sport-tuned 4-wheel independent; front, MacPherson-type struts with coil springs and stabilizer bar; rear, double wishbone with coil springs and stabilizer bar

Braking: 4-wheel discs; dual diagonal system with electronic brake-force distribution, 4-channel 4-sensor ABS, brake assist and brake override; front, 12.4-inch ventilated discs dual-piston calipers; rear, 11.4-inch ventilated discs, single-piston calipers (11.8-inch discs with EyeSight option)

Steering: Quick-ratio electric power-assisted rack and dual pinion

0-60 mph acceleration: 5.5 seconds; quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds at 101 mph (Car and Driver)

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 16.6 gallons

Trunk space: 12.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.8*/43.1 inches *39.8 w/o sunroof

Rear head/leg room: 36.7/36.5 inches

Length/wheelbase: 183.3/105.2 inches

Curb weight: 3,320 pounds

Turning circle: 36.7 feet

FEATURES

Standard Premium model equipment includes: Keyless entry with push-button start and PIN-code vehicle access, Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus, rearview camera, 6-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, leather-wrapped flat-bottomed steering wheel with red stitching, leather-wrapped shifter handle, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, analog speedometer, tachometer, coolant temperature and fuel gauges, 6-speaker audio system, auto on/off headlights, power windows with auto up/down, electronic cruise control, steering wheel controls, dual front USB input ports, dual rear USB charge ports, tilt-telescoping steering column, dual cup holders in center console, single bottle holder in each door panel, rear center armrest with dual can holders, sun visors with dual-illuminated vanity mirrors, center console with LED-illuminated storage tray and 12-volt power outlet, dual-zone automatic climate control system, 60/40-split flat-folding rear seatback, LED headlights and fog lights, heated side mirrors, windshield wiper deicer

WRX performance equipment: 18-by-8.5-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a dark gray finish, 245/40 97Y summer-performance tires, performance-design front seats, fabric upholstery with red trim, sport-design electroluminescent gauges, front and rear underspoilers, rear bumper with integrated diffuser, trunk spoiler, exhaust system with quad stainless-steel outlets

Safety features include: 7 air bags, Vehicle Dynamics Control with active torque vectoring, disc brakes, hill-start assist, and brake assist

PRICING

WRX Premium base price: $33,100, including $995 freight charge; price as tested $34,975

Options on test vehicle: Harman Kardon audio system (with 11 speakers) and power moonroof, $1,875

Where assembled: Gunma, Japan.

Warranty: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain

Subaru Outback Wilderness Review

by | Jul 14, 2022 | 0 comments

Subaru Outback Wilderness Review

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness is the thinking driver’s passport to comfortably get out, get it, and get home

A blue 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness model on a dirt trail

The 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness ($38,870) is adventure-ready with a raised suspension, low-ratio gearing, and advanced terrain control. (Photos courtesy of Subaru)

Table of Contents

5 Cool Things
Pricing
Outback Wilderness Upgrades
Safety Features
Symmetrical All Wheel Drive
Performance and Fuel Economy
Ride and Handling
Interior Function
Back Seats and Cargo
2023 Outback Updates
Why Buy the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

Subaru has pushed farther afield with its new-for-2022 Outback Wilderness model. It marks the eighth trim level for the sixth generation of this raised all-wheel-drive wagon.

Subaru has long worn a burnished badge for all-wheel-drive back-to-nature rambling. The brand’s vehicles are family-oriented, steeped in safety, small(er), and efficient. Such capable vehicles have been an answer to the pandemic-induced call for “Don’t tread on me, let me tread lightly on a dirt trail.”

Breathe deep the independence of an all-wheel-drive escape vehicle.

Many traditional carmakers have come to market with specialized off-road-themed models to capitalize on adventure travel. To cut through some of that noise, the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness stakes out newfound capability. The Wilderness model is not a rock crawler, nor will it steal the thunder from a Jeep Wrangler, but it is the thinking driver’s passport to comfortably get out, get it, and get home.

An under view of the chassis with front skid plate

The Wilderness is upgraded with a front skid plate.

5 Cool Things About the Outback Wilderness

  • 17-inch Yokohama Geolandar A/T raised white letter tires, and matte black-finish alloy wheels have a 48mm offset for a wider track.
  • Full-size spare wheel and tire — a requirement for off-roading safety.
  • StarTex upholstery with copper-color stitching. It is more supple than leather and water resistant.
  • 180-degree front view monitor, an asset for trail riding or parking in the city.
  • Ladder-type roof rack. This rack system will support up to 700 pounds; most roof racks are rated 125 to 250 pounds. And the Subaru rack is strong enough to support a roof-top tent.
and the full-size spare tired and wheel.

A full-size spare tire and wheel are essential for trail riding.

Assets of the 2022 Outback

Among the nine carlines by Subaru, the Outback is usually its top monthly seller. The compact-class Crosstrek SUV is usually a few thousand sales behind in second place.

A test drive of the Outback is compelling. It greets the driver with a flannel-warm sense of security and all-wheel-drive confidence. The steering weight has a light and steady touch. Four-wheel-disc braking engages with absolute refinement. And the suspension is the great equalizer of smoothness over the fractured pavement of the city or washboard-rippled dirt tracks.

As a midsize vehicle, the interior is roomy with good elbow room and a long stretch of back-seat legroom. Cargo space is generous, with length for car camping when the back seat is folded. The cabin feels snug, the doors close with satisfying security. Sightlines are unhindered. And its small turning circle of 36.1 feet is enabling on the trail or in the parking lot.

The finisher might be Subaru’s reputation for safety. The Outback earns a top five star overall ranking by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. But there have been growing pains for the Outback as documented at NHTSA.gov, but more on that below.

The driver area and steering wheel of the Outback Wilderness

The driver area is smartly arranged with unobstructed sightlines.

2022 Subaru Outback Pricing

There are eight trim levels of Subaru Outback, with two engine choices, one automatic Lineartronic CVT and standard all-wheel drive.

The entry-level engine is a 182-hp, 2.5-liter nonturbocharged “flat” four-cylinder. This engine has fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg city, 33 highway and 29 mpg combined.

Upper Outback trim levels get the 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, also a “flat” four-cylinder. It has mileage ratings of 22/26/25 mpg. Regular unleaded fuel is recommended for both engines.

Starting prices range from $28,820 for the Base model with entry engine to $41,820 for the Touring XT with the turbo engine. Pricing includes the $1,175 freight charge from Lafayette, Ind.

Today’s tester is the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness with the 260-hp engine. It starts at $38,870 and finished at $40,715. It had the only factory option package offered, the Subaru Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system, $1,845, and includes a power moonroof and reverse automatic braking system.

The Wilderness is well equipped with such standard features as smart-key entry and push-button ignition, StarTex water-repellent upholstery, 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment system (with a free 3-year subscription), 180-degree front view monitor, and a rearview camera with guidance lines, 10-way power-adjustable driver seat and an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, all-weather floor mats with the Wilderness logo. The front and rear (window) seats are heated.

Find current Subaru Outback pricing here. And check for special offers here.

Front headroom with the sunroof is 37.7 inches; legroom is long at 42.8 inches.

Front headroom with the sunroof is 37.7 inches, and legroom is long at 42.8 inches.

Outback Wilderness Upgrades

The Subaru Wilderness has some unique styling treatments. Among them:

Yokohama Geolandar A/T 225/65 17-inch all-season, raised white letter tires. Matte black-finish alloy wheels have a 48mm offset for wider track. Included is a full-size matching spare wheel and tire.

Wilderness-spec suspension. The ride is raised about an inch for 9.5-inches of ground clearance and increased approach, departure and breakover angles.

Anodized copper finish accent elements. These identify contact points for tow hook anchor points and roof rail tie-down points.

Hexagon-pattern LED fog lights, with and covers.

  • Anodized copper front bumper tow points.
  • All-weather floor mats with Wilderness logo on front mats.
  • PVC rear seatback material, waterproof and durable.
  • 8-way power front passenger seat.
  • Black inner headlight bezel and black inner extension.
  • LED rear gate light.
Unique hex-designed LED fog lights on the Outback Wilderness

Unique hex-designed LED fog lights.

Subaru Outback Safety Features

Subaru packs an electronic brain trust of safety features and driver-assist technologies into all Outback models. Not the least are eight air bags, including a driver’s knee bag and front passenger seat cushion bags.

Standard across the lineup is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering. The system will provide steering assist when the vehicle veers outside its lane.

Subaru’s semi-autonomous driver-assist system keeps the Outback well centered and gives more fluid steering corrections than some. Drivers, however, should always use two hands on the wheel. Variable daylight and road conditions can cause random but brief shutdowns, in my experience. The Subaru system dutifully informs the driver of approaching or passing vehicles with chirps and chimes.

DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System uses an infrared camera and facial recognition technology to monitor driver fatigue or distraction signs. You’ll know it is working when you hear the pings and see a warning light on the driver info screen.

The warning sounds can sometimes seem like too much input in heavy traffic. In my first few days of driving, the tones had me checking the mirrors and driver-info screen to determine the cause of concern; some of my head and eye movement might have triggered more pings. But the added electronic eyes in heavy traffic are when EyeSight is at its best.

The EyeSight system is comprised of:

AEB: Automatic emergency braking;

LDW: Lane departure and sway warning;

BSD: Blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert;

VDC: Vehicle dynamics control with electronic traction control; and

  • Active torque vectoring (using brakes);
  • Auto vehicle hold;
  • Hill descent control;
  • Brake-force distribution, brake assist, and brake override.
The black-finish alloy wheels have a 48mm offset for a wider track.

The black-finish alloy wheels have a 48mm offset for a wider track.

Safety Stars

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration — NHTSA.gov — gives the Subaru Outback a top five-star overall safety rating, as expected. The government website also documents other safety-related topics relating to recalls: owner Complaints, Investigations, and Manufacturer Communications.

What I did not expect to learn from the NHTSA ranking are the many official complaints from Outback owners. Most of the issues were severe windshield cracking, with no known impacts, and numerous battery-drain issues. Learn more about the Subaru Outback (or your current vehicle) here.

Symmetrical All Wheel Drive

The fortified Outback Wilderness is a pinnacle of simplicity and usability. The foundation of its traction is Subaru’s full-time symmetrical all-wheel-drive. All the wheels are turning all the time, unlike an on-demand AWD system.

Subaru’s AWD system is usually a 60/40 power split between the front and rear axles. When sensors in the Subaru system detect a slipping wheel (in less than a revolution of that wheel, Subaru says), the power is redirected from the slipping wheel to wheels that still have traction. It is an invisible action and requires no driver action.

The Outback Wilderness model builds on that traction foundation with revised lower gear ratios, an active torque split to the AWD system, and an Advanced X-Mode for terrain control.

Advanced X-Mode is a unique control logic in the vehicle dynamics control system. It reduces individual wheel spin for more control on slippery road surfaces and inclines.

The system has driver-selectable modes of :

  • Snow/Dirt,
  • Deep Snow/Mud under 25 mph,
  • Deep Snow/Mud above 25 mph.
  • Low Speed/Low Ratio Gradient Control. This mode seems to replicate 4WD low-range gearing. It automatically detects travel on steep grades and shifts the CVT to a lower gear ratio and lower first ratio.
The Wilderness model's engine

The 260-hp, 2.4-liter turbocharged “flat” four-cylinder engine.

Outback Wilderness Performance

The 260-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder is a sophisticated design with horizontally opposed pistons, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and direct injection.

But the Outback Wilderness has a full-bodied curb weight of 3,929 pounds. Add travel gear and a partner, and the engine is hefting 4,200 pounds or more.

Turbocharged power is welcome, but acceleration force can range from relaxed to aggressive, all in a mile of driving.

The engine’s 277 foot-pounds of torque dig into its peak power from 2,000-4,800 rpm. Off-the-line acceleration is not brisk as the continuously variable transmission hooks up and the turbo spools boost. But bury the pedal and the engine rallies and the transmission clicks off a downshift or two for a rush of power.

Because of the lower gear ratios and the curb weight, fuel mileage is challenged. The best I achieved was an average of 21.8 mpg. The 18.5-gallon tank is a benefit for travel, however, off-road or on.

The Outback Wilderness A 700-pound-rated roof-rack system.

A 700-pound-rated roof-rack system.

Outback Wilderness Ride and Handling

Built on Subaru’s global platform, the Outback feels robust and solid. Its ride quality is comfortably compliant but capable enough for tooling through backcountry curves. The four-wheel independent (steel-spring) suspension performs better ride control than pricier electronic systems.

There’s also a cushioning effect from the substantial sidewall of the Yokohama Geolandar tires, which is an asset on pavement or off. And the Wilderness model has a full-size spare wheel and tire — a requirement for off-roading safety.

Braking is by power-assisted and ventilated four-wheel discs. The 12.4-inch front rotors have dual-piston calipers, and the rear 11.8-inch rotors have single-piston calipers.

The Outback has a hefty tow capacity of 3,500 pounds with a 350-pound trailer tongue weight.

The 11.6-inch-long tablet-like infotainment system in the Wilderness

The Subaru Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system, $1,845.

Outback Interior Function

Inside, the Outback cabin is well soundproofed with a sound-insulated windshield and side glass. But the raised ride height, substantial roof rack, and off-road tires generate noise at highway speeds.

The driver area is smartly arranged with unobstructed sightlines at the side mirrors and over the shoulder. The white-on-black, dual-gauge array has a driver-info panel between the dials for the digital speedometer, radio-media, fuel economy, etc.

The step-in height is hip-high and easy to maneuver. The seats are not over-bolstered at the sides or bottoms to slide across, and there is long thigh support.

The two-tone gray-black interior treatment is appealing with reserved use of satin metallic and chrome trim.

Base models have fabric upholstery while the upper trims have leather. But the Wilderness model has Subaru’s water-repellent StarTex upholstery. The synthetic plastic material is softer than leather and is supposed to be water resistant and easy to clean. (StarTex is made without polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Subaru says.)

The shifter console is compact and has an e-bin and two 2.1-amp charging USBs. Oddly wireless charging is not included on the Wilderness but is available for $341. Sliding visors have covered and well-lighted mirrors.

One of my favorite features was the front-view camera. It is very handy for trail views or when steering into a parking slot.

The big 11.6-inch vertical tablet seems like a great idea, but the tablet’s width limits the display of camera images.

Except for stand-alone knobs for radio volume and station selection, the remainder of the controls are accessed by a two-tap touch-screen process. This action will take eyes from the road until the format is mastered.

The shifter with copper trim in the Outback Wilderness

The CVT transmission, with steering wheel shifters, can simulate eight speeds.

Back Seat and Cargo Space

There is sedanlike comfort in the back-seat area with adult-size seating and long legroom. The low transmission tunnel eases three-across footroom. And there are a couple inches of seatback recline, which parents value for sleeping youngsters.

Conveniences include the broad fold-down armrest with a pair of can holders and two more 2.1-amp charging USBs.

The square cargo area has eight tie-downs, upper and lower, rather than just four floor-mounted anchor points. The deep space has seatback releases, corner nooks, a 12-volt plug, and bag hooks. The spare tire and tools are stowed below, and there is space for the roller cover when not needed.

The liftgate opening is 44 inches wide by 29 inches tall at the entry opening. Fold the seatbacks for up to almost 7 feet of length.

A cutaway side view of the front and rear seats in the Outback

Back seat legroom is quite long at 39 inches, and the seatback reclines a couple of inches.

2023 Subaru Outback Updates

The 2023 Subaru Outback lineup (except the Wilderness) will debut a new front fascia, more prominent grille, redesigned LED headlights and fog lights, and a more rugged front bumper cover. On the sides, there is expanded wheel-arch cladding for bolder styling and added protection from ice and gravel scouring.

The latest version of EyeSight Driver Assist Technology will have a wider field of view and updated control software. Also added is an electric brake booster.

The top-level Touring trim adds a wide-angle mono camera, which works with the dual-camera EyeSight system. The added camera is intended to recognize pedestrians and bicycles sooner as the vehicle enters an intersection at low speed. When necessary, the new EyeSight system will brake to avoid intersection collisions with bicycles and pedestrians.

Also new for the Touring model is a full LCD smart rearview mirror with auto-dimming, compass, and Homelink garage-gate-lighting system.

EyeSight models with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert will add Automatic Emergency Steering. The new feature works with the Pre-Collision Braking System to help avoid a collision at speeds less than 50 mph.

Fold the seatbacks for up to almost 7 feet of length, which means car camping is very doable.

With up to almost 7 feet of cargo-space length, car camping is very doable.

Cargo area features show seatback releases, a storage nook, lights, 8 tiedowns, and bag hooks.

Seatback release levers, bag hooks, 8 tiedowns, and bag hooks. (Mark Maynard photos)

Why Buy the 2022 Outback Wilderness?

The Subaru Outback Wilderness makes an almost irresistible first impression. It looks good, feels secure on the road, and would be a faithful road-trip companion. It has all the good bones for long-term ownership. If the Outback was offered as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid, it would be on my short list to buy.

The NHTSA owner complaints cannot be ignored, however. If you are among the Subaru faithful, and a new Outback is on your short list, consider the extended warranty “Gold Plus Plan.” The dealership can provide pricing.

A three-quarter rear view of the Outback Wilderness trailside.

The Outback’s global platform feels robust and solid. The ride quality is comfortably compliant but capable enough for tooling through backcountry curves.

2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness Specifications

Body style: midsize, 5-seat, 5-door AWD crossover SUV

Engine: 260-hp, twin-scroll turbocharged with direct-injected 2.4-liter flat 4-cylinder; 277 lb.-ft. torque from 2,000-4,800 rpm; auto stop-start at idle

Transmission: high-torque Lineartronic CVT with 8-speed manual function and steering wheel paddle shifters; revised lower ratios exclusive to Wilderness model

Symmetrical AWD: Active Torque Split AWD with electronic variable hydraulic transfer clutch

Fuel economy: 22/26/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; 87 octane

Ground clearance: 9.5 inches

Towing capacity: 3,500 pounds with 350-lb. trailer tongue weight

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons

Cargo space: 32.5-75.7 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: *37.7/42.8 inches *40.1 inches without sunroof

Rear head/leg room: 39.1/39.5 inches

Length/wheelbase: 191.3/108.1 inches

Curb weight: 3,929 pounds, including option package of navigation, moonroof and reverse automatic braking

Turning circle: 36.1 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: smart-key entry and push-button ignition, advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering, StarTex water-repellent upholstery, 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment system (3-year free subscription), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 180-degree front view monitor and rearview camera with guidance lines, 10-way power-adjustable driver and 8-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, all-weather floor mats with Wilderness logo, heated front and rear seats

Wilderness treatment: 17-inch Yokohama Geolandar A/T 225/65 all-season raised white letter tires on matte-black finish alloy wheels, LED headlights and fog lights, ladder-type roof rails with 700-lb. capacity, anti-glare hood graphic, front skid plate, LED rear light

Safety features include: 8 air bags (including driver knee bag and front passenger cushion bag), EyeSight driver-assist system with automatic emergency braking; lane departure and sway warning; blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert; vehicle dynamics control with electronic traction control; active torque vectoring (using brakes); auto vehicle hold; hill descent control; brake-force distribution, brake assist, brake override

PRICING

Base price: $38,870, including $1,175 freight charge; price as tested $40,715

Options on test vehicle: Subaru Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system, $1,845, includes power moonroof and reverse automatic braking system

Where assembled: Lafayette, Ind.

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance; 5-years/60,000-miles powertrain