The Wagoneer is one of the most iconic SUVs of all time. It has had many changes throughout the years and one major part of its transformation was the evolution of its wheels, which were essential not only for the overall look but also for performance. This article will cover all about what Wagoneer wheels are, their evolution through the years, and most importantly for performance. 

Evolution of Wagoneer Wheels 

The original models of the Wagoneer had 15x7-inch steel wheels that were 14-spoke design. The wheels blended into the Wagoneer styling nicely but as time went on, braking technology became more advanced and this made them too small for larger wheels. The design had to change for them to remain safe and function correctly. 

Modern Adaptations: 17” x 8” Wheels 

This additional technology created a modern wheel that would address several concerns about the original design and use, however, it was also very functional. At the time, the wheels were made of 15” diameter wheels for their frame design and 17” diameter wheels for their spoke design. The 17” diameter wheels did not have space on the wheel as an OEM design had to be upgraded. With the 17” diameter wheels, larger braking systems could be installed. The largest braking system available by far was 14” disc brakes which can withstand quite a bit of force. 

Technical Specifications 

  • Material: Modern 17x8-inch wheels are made of high-quality aluminum which has a balance between strength and weight.
  • Design: thanks to its 14-spoke design the classic style of the Wagoneer is maintained. That’s why it suits everyone - enthusiasts and purists. 

Finish Options 

These wheels are available in various finishes such as powder-coated, anodized, and polished, and can be tailor-made to your specifications. 

Impact on Performance 

Upgrading to 17x8-inch wheels has several performance implications:​

  • Better Braking: Because of the increased diameter of the wheel more spacious brake rotors (like 14-inch discs) are needed for better braking efficiency and safety
  • Better Handling: Also the bigger wheels give better handling characteristics. This means better stability in cornering and high-speed driving.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Modern wheels add an aggressive, up-to-date look to the vehicle's overall appearance on the road. 

Customization and Compatibility 

For Wagoneer enthusiasts with a sweet spot for customization, the 17x8-inch wheels are an option. 

  • Finished Options: Different finishes allow owners to create the wheels they want, whether you want them to be classic or modern.
  • Selection of Tires: As larger wheels create more space on the wheels you can choose from many different types of tires allowing you to customize ride comfort or off-road ability or even build a performance set. 

Considerations for Upgrading 

How many considerations do you have when thinking of the upgrade of 17x8-inch wheels? 

  • Suspension Compatibility: If the suspension of your vehicle has enough to accommodate the larger wheel, it must be built to withstand bumpy roads or other interference.
  • Speedometer Calibration (with changing wheel and tire size): If the changes make the speedometer inaccurate, you may want to have it recalibrated so the reading is accurate.
  • Load Ratings: The new wheels need to meet/exceed the vehicle's load rating requirements to ensure safety and durability. 

Wagoneer wheels have moved from the original 15x7-inch size to the 17x8-inch size that combines classic design and modern driving requirements. Not only do these new wheels remain faithful to what Wagoneer enthusiasts are fond of but they also meet the demands of today’s drivers, such as improved braking and handling. So, if you want to maintain the heritage of the Wagoneer while bringing the latest technologies into your vehicle then these 17x8-inch wheels are for you.