If you're shopping used, know that 2017-2022 Compass models have a documented pattern of auxiliary batteries dying every few years, head gaskets failing before 100k miles, and cooling systems that can strand you days after purchase. The 2023 redesign swapped in a 2.0L turbo and appears to have fixed the major gremlins, but there's no long-term proof yet. Even owners who've had decent luck admit a Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V costs about the same and won't keep you up at night. The Trailhawk trim offers real off-road chops if you need that, but multiple mechanics in these threads won't touch the brand themselves. Buy new if you must, avoid the Tigershark era entirely.
Stellantis stretched the Wagoneer name across two wildly different products, and only one deserves consideration. The gas-powered version is a spacious three-row hauler with a strong turbo six and genuinely comfortable highway manners, think of it as a Tahoe alternative that trades GM's proven reliability for slightly nicer interior materials and Stellantis's signature electrical quirks. You'll deal with infotainment freezes and the occasional dead battery, but it'll get your family where they're going. The Wagoneer S electric variant is a different animal entirely: owners report repeated 12V auxiliary battery failures that strand the vehicle mid-drive, documented unintended acceleration incidents, and dealer networks that can't fix the problems. Several are pursuing lemon law buybacks, and Stellantis paused US production until 2027. If you need three rows and can stomach the depreciation hit, the gas Wagoneer works, just budget for electrical gremlins. Skip the Wagoneer S entirely.