The Jeep Gladiator: The Truck You Didn't Know You Needed
September 20 2024 - support@wikimotive.com
Jeep has long been known for creating rugged and adventure-driven vehicles that not only stand the test of time but also appeal to the masses in a way no other vehicle has, creating a strong and loyal global fan base. The brand also has a way of designing its vehicles so they can easily be spotted in a crowd, from their boxy frames to their signature seven-slot grille. However, when the Jeep Gladiator debuted in 2019, many stopped for a second look, quickly realizing it wasn’t like the rest of the lineup. What they might not have realized, however, is that the 2019 Gladiator was actually a new take on the first Gladiator truck the lineup produced back in 1962.
The first generation of the Jeep Gladiator ran from 1962 to 1988—although the Gladiator name was dropped in 1971—and was based on the brand’s Wagoneer platform. Today's Gladiator takes after the fourth-generation Jeep Wrangler. You can see the newest Jeep Gladiator for sale at Gastonia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and talk with our knowledgeable and friendly team, who will answer any questions you might have. We think that once you’re introduced to everything this standout truck offers, you’ll wonder how you ever drove without it. Continue reading to learn more, then stop by and see the Gladiator in person.
A Closer Look at the Gladiator Trim Lineup
The Gladiator’s design dares you to take the road less traveled with its removable roof and doors, the rounded hood giving it a bold new look, and signature wheel options. There are seven versions of the truck, starting with the base Sport trim, which offers a durable steel bed and a three-position tailgate that makes loading, unloading, and overall use easier than ever before. The top-tiered model, the Mohave X, reels drivers in with the largest touchscreen in its class, at 12.3 inches. That touchscreen also comes with navigation and wireless connectivity, which means your devices will be charged and ready to go when you get where you’re going. A closer look at the highlights of each trim level—offered below—gives you all the details you need to determine which option might be best for your needs.Gladiator Sport
As mentioned, the base Sport model has a durable steel bed that includes a three-position tailgate for quick and easy use. It also has trail-rated 4x4 capabilities as well as heavy-duty Dana axles. Dana axles have long been recognized for their durability and reliability, giving drivers the confidence they need to tackle any terrain or road conditions. You’ll also have access to the maximum towing capacity the Gladiator offers when the Sport model is appropriately equipped. That towing capacity is 7,700 lbs. Last but not least, the Sport 4x4 has a standard premium soft top and removable doors, as well as a Command-Trac Part-Time Selectable 4x4 System and a ParkView Rear Back Up camera. The Command-Trac system is designed to deliver dependable performance across a variety of terrains. The selectable part of the system allows you to quickly switch between two-wheel drive for normal driving and four-wheel drive for challenging situations, offering increased grip and control when it's most needed.Gladiator Sport S
The Sport S includes all the features you’ll find on the Sport 4x4, along with a best-in-class 1,725-lb payload capacity and seventeen-inch gray aluminum wheels. You’ll also enjoy advanced driver-assisted safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control and Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking and Advanced Brake Assist. Both of these features and the other safety amenities you’ll find included give you peace of mind as you head down the road, knowing you and your passengers are protected. Additionally, you’ll find a lot of power when choosing the Sport S, from the power windows, heated exterior mirrors, locking doors, and tailgate. Power is also found in the engine, which is a 3.6L Pentastar V6 with variable valve timing and stop-start technology.Gladiator Willys
The Willys name has been part of the Jeep legacy from the beginning, so it makes sense that it would also be a trim level for the Jeep Gladiator. Some of the highlights of this trim can be seen at first glance, such as the LED headlamps, taillamps, and fog lamps. Additionally, the Willys trim includes specialized hood and tailgate decals. Other highlights, like the Trac-Lok Limited Slip Differential, are more “felt” than seen. This feature relies on traction-enhancing technology to improve both off-road and on-road performance. Essentially, it automatically shifts torque to the wheel with the most grip, resulting in increased control in slick or uneven situations and lowering the chance of wheel spin while improving vehicle stability. Gladiator Rubicon The Rubicon trim comes rolling in with 33-inch all-terrain tires and steel off-road rock rails. It also has the same LED headlamps, taillamps, and fog lamps the Willys 4x4 showcases. To go along with the 33-inch tires, the Rubicon trim level sports an available TrailCam Front-Facing Off-Road camera, which improves off-road driving by offering a clear, real-time image of obstacles and terrain directly in front of the vehicle. This camera, which is integrated into the front grille, allows you to handle challenging trails with greater precision and confidence, particularly in tight or tricky conditions where your view might not be the best. The video feed from the camera can be found on the infotainment screen, which also contains grid lines to help with maneuvering. In addition, there’s an available Winch-Capable Steel Front Bumper.
Gladiator Mojave
It’s said a lot can be learned from a name. In the case of the Gladiator Mojave, that statement is true, as this trim is the first and only desert-rated Jeep. Additionally, you’ll find FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs and class-exclusive front hydraulic jounce bumpers. This addition gives you enhanced off-road performance, improved damping control, and heat dissipation in extreme driving situations. In addition, the hydraulic jounce bumpers offer extra protection and cushioning during extreme impacts, resulting in a smoother and more controllable ride, even when the pavement is nowhere to be found. Like the Rubicon trim level, the Mojave is supported by 33-inch all-terrain tires, along with a one-inch front suspension lift, Cab Rock Rails, and a Performance Hood with Center Scoop.Gladiator Rubicon X
The Rubicon X includes the same features as the Rubicon. In addition, you’ll find Jeep’s Uconnect 5 NAV system and the same 12.3-inch display that was mentioned above when introducing the top-tiered Mohave X trim. That infotainment system gets a boost from the Alpine Premium Audio System, ensuring you and your passengers stay entertained during the drive. Other highlights include heated 12-way power front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a leather trim interior. Also, safety is leveled up with the addition of Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection and the ParkSense Rear Park Assist System. Last but not least, the same Winch-Capable Steel Front Bumper found on other trims is also present on the Rubicon X 4x4 trim.Gladiator Mojave X
While the Mojave X 4x4 includes the same features as the Mojave trim level, it’s the perks that go above and beyond—such as the already-mentioned Uconnect 5 NAV with the 12.3-inch display—that make it a showstopper. Additionally, it has the same Alpine Premium Audio System as the Rubicon X 4x4, as well as the same heated 12-way power front seats, heated steering wheel, and leather trim interior. Rounding out this top tier are the front and rear steel bumpers, the same available TrailCam that the Rubicon trim level offers, and a three-piece hardtop.