The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is making a “grand” comeback in 2022. The planetary three-row SUV gets a depressingly low EPA fuel economy estimate, to the surprise of literally no one. The big boy of the American brand’s lineup needs a lot of heft to get around, which severely affects its gas consumption. It’s time now to look at the tradeoffs for such a poor fuel economy and if it’s worth it for the experience it will provide.

You’ll get something in return for the terrible fuel economy

So, about that number. It’s low. Much lower than you might think. We’re in Lamborghini-on-a-track territory here. The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer will manage a measly 15 MPG combined, according to Car and Driver and the EPA. Frankly, this is to be expected given the big SUV’s powertrain. The retro-inspired ride will be powered by a hefty 6.4-liter V8.

This, of course, will mean the gargantuan American SUV will have quite the horsepower figure. And it does, making 471 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque. So, at least speed is a tradeoff for poor fuel economy, as it so often is. However, this number is apparently Jeep’s best effort, at least for this spec. The Wagoneer has some tech helping it achieve that MPG number, like cylinder deactivation, which turns off half the motor to save fuel as needed.

Putting the “grand” in Jeep Grand Wagoneer

Now it’s time to talk about what else you get for your roughly $89,000 bill at the dealership. The Grand Wagoneer has long been a harbinger of luxury over fuel economy. Classic models like the one above only managed 11 MPG combined back in 1989, per the Department of Energy. The new model is no different, as we’ve seen.

The 2022 Wagoneer will put luxury and presence above all else. As it should, for the price point it’s at. The Wagoneer faces some stiff competition in this segment, such as Porsche’s Cayenne SUV. There is, however, something to be said for the looks of the new Jeep model. It’s a perfect blend of retro nods and modern design if you can ignore its poorly proportioned rear windows.

Is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer’s poor MPG worth it?

Based on the images Jeep provided, it looks like the interior of the Grand Wagoneer will be no different. Parent company Fiat/Chrysler is certainly on a roll with the interiors lately and the Wagoneer looks no different. The lovely stitched seats and plentiful tech, including a second screen for the passenger, looks promising.

So, that’s the trade-off for such horrid fuel economy. No matter how good the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer is, it must still contend with that EPA number. Whether or not it will be worth it is up to you, the consumer, who must weigh the cost of gas versus the potential experience the Wagoneer will offer.