The 1966 Jeep Super Wagoneer is widely regarded as the first true American luxury SUV, a vehicle that blended four-wheel-drive capability with premium features at a time when most off-roaders were purely utilitarian. Now, decades later, VIGILANTE has reengineered that pioneering model into a modern high-performance machine while preserving its original character.
When it debuted in 1966, the Super Wagoneer stood apart by combining rugged Jeep engineering with upscale appointments that were rare in the segment. It laid the foundation for the luxury SUV market that would expand dramatically in the decades to follow.
VIGILANTE’s reinterpretation begins with a complete disassembly. Each vehicle is stripped to its final bolt before being rebuilt on a custom chassis engineered to handle significantly more power than the original platform. The company draws on two decades of experience with full-size Jeeps, aiming to retain the strengths of the classic design while addressing its shortcomings with modern technology.
At the heart of the build is a naturally aspirated 392 SRT-8 HEMI V8 producing 485 horsepower, paired with a handcrafted gated manual transmission. VIGILANTE also offers additional HEMI engine options ranging from 485 horsepower up to 1,000 horsepower. The powertrains are the same family of engines found in modern Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT and Trackhawk models.
Beneath the vintage silhouette, the upgrades are extensive. Modern suspension components replace the original leaf springs, including Eibach coil springs and manually adjustable Fox Racing 2.0 shock absorbers. Braking performance is enhanced with Baer six-piston calipers, delivering stopping capability to match the increased output.
The restoration process includes stripping the body to bare metal, repairing rust and impact damage, metalizing the body and galvanizing the chassis to prevent future corrosion. The chassis is powder-coated before final assembly, and every mechanical component is replaced.
Inside, the cabin features handcrafted leather, air conditioning, a custom dashboard and discreetly integrated modern technology. While the chrome trim, grille and proportions echo 1960s design, the driving experience reflects contemporary performance and refinement.
The result is a Super Wagoneer that honors its legacy while meeting modern expectations for power, handling and comfort.
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