The Jeep Wagoneer S, Jeep’s first American-made electric vehicle (EV), has faced significant challenges since its launch. A recent auction result underscores the brand’s struggles: a nearly new Wagoneer S Limited 4xe with just 91 miles (147 km) sold for $38,500 on Bring a Trailer.

This price is roughly $30,000 below the SUV’s original sticker price of $67,195, including destination fees but before options. The deal highlights the steep depreciation EVs can experience, especially in a cooling market.

Wagoneer S Specs and Features

The Wagoneer S Limited 4xe comes equipped with dual motors, all-wheel drive, and a factory-rated output of 500 horsepower (507 PS) and 524 lb-ft (710 Nm) of torque. Its 100 kWh battery offers a quoted range of 294 miles (473 km), which, while not class-leading, is sufficient for many drivers.

The vehicle in the auction was finished in white with Jeep’s Dark Appearance package and included a panoramic roof, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, surround-view cameras, adaptive cruise control, wireless smartphone mirroring, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and an Alpine nine-speaker audio system. These features make it far from a stripped rental, though it is positioned below the 600 hp (608 PS) Launch Edition, which was priced at $72,195.

Why the Wagoneer S Depreciated So Sharply

The Wagoneer S’s struggles began when the U.S. federal EV tax credit of $7,500 expired in September 2023. Before the credit’s removal, Jeep reportedly sold over 10,000 Wagoneer S models across three quarters with the help of significant discounts. However, sales plummeted to just 613 units in the two quarters following the credit’s end.

The market conditions also shifted. Automakers had anticipated continued growth in premium EV demand, but instead, the market cooled. Buyers became more selective about pricing, charging infrastructure, and brand trust, further impacting the Wagoneer S’s sales.

Jeep’s Response: A Pause and Upgrades for 2027

In response to these challenges, Jeep has made a bold decision: the brand will skip the 2026 model year entirely. Instead, the Wagoneer S will return in 2027 with significant upgrades. Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, has stated that the pause will allow for improvements in battery performance, software, capability, and interior quality. Additionally, the 2027 model will feature a NACS charging port, providing easier access to Tesla’s expanding Supercharger network.

While the improved Wagoneer S may address some of the current model’s shortcomings, the auction result suggests that buyers can find exceptional value in the current version. For $38,500, the buyer acquired a barely driven 500-hp electric SUV with extensive features. However, the first owner may regret the decision given the model’s uncertain resale value and impending redesign.

Bring a Trailer Auction Details

The Wagoneer S Limited 4xe auction took place on Bring a Trailer, a platform known for rare and high-value vehicle sales. The final sale price of $38,500 reflects the growing trend of EVs losing value quickly after purchase, a trend that has become more pronounced in recent years.

Source: CarScoops