Regarding the exterior, the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator have a lot in common. They both have the iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and boxy shape that Jeep is known for. However, the Gladiator has a longer wheelbase and a five-foot bed, which makes it look more like a pickup truck than an SUV. Conversely, the Wrangler has a shorter wheelbase and a more compact design, making it more agile and maneuverable.
In terms of performance, the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator are excellent off-road vehicles. They come with standard four-wheel drive, solid axles, and high ground clearance. However, the Gladiator has a higher towing capacity and payload thanks to its longer wheelbase and pickup truck bed. Conversely, the Wrangler is more nimble and agile, better suited for tight trails and steep inclines.
Key Takeaways
- The Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator are rugged, reliable off-road vehicles with iconic designs.
- The Gladiator has a longer wheelbase and a five-foot bed, making it more like a pickup truck than an SUV.
- The Wrangler is more nimble and agile, while the Gladiator has a higher towing capacity and payload.
Jeep Wrangler vs. Gladiator: An Overview
The Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator are both iconic vehicles that have been designed to tackle rugged terrains. While they share many similarities, they also have some essential differences that set them apart. This section will provide an overview of the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator, highlighting their similarities and differences.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a classic off-road vehicle that has been around for decades. It is known for its ruggedness, versatility, and ability to handle terrain. The Wrangler is available in two-door and four-door configurations, with various engine options and trim levels.
One of the critical features of the Wrangler is its removable doors, roof, and windshield. This allows for an open-air driving experience unmatched by any other vehicle. The Wrangler also has a shorter wheelbase than the Gladiator, which makes it more maneuverable on tight trails.
Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator is a relatively new addition to the Jeep lineup, introduced in 2020. It is essentially a pickup truck version of the Wrangler, with a longer wheelbase and a truck bed in the back. The Gladiator is available in four-door configuration only, with a range of engine options and trim levels.
One of the critical features of the Gladiator is its ability to haul cargo, thanks to its truck bed. This makes it a more practical choice for those carrying gear or equipment. The Gladiator also has a longer wheelbase than the Wrangler, which makes it more stable on uneven terrain.
Gladiator vs Wrangler
When choosing between the Gladiator and Wrangler, there are a few key factors to consider. The Gladiator is the apparent choice to haul cargo or equipment. However, the Wrangler is the way to go if you prioritize maneuverability and an open-air driving experience.
Both vehicles can handle challenging terrains thanks to their four-wheel-drive systems and impressive ground clearance. They also share many of the same features, such as removable doors and roofs and various engine options.
In conclusion, the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator are impressive vehicles offering a unique driving experience. While they have some key differences, they both excel at tackling challenging terrains and providing an exhilarating ride.
Exterior Comparison
Dimensions
The Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Wrangler share many design elements, but there are some differences when it comes to their dimensions. The Gladiator has a longer wheelbase of 137.3 inches, while the Wrangler’s wheelbase is shorter at 118.4 inches. The Gladiator is also longer overall, measuring 218 inches compared to the Wrangler’s 166.8 inches.
Design Elements
The Gladiator and Wrangler feature Jeep’s iconic seven-slot grille, round headlights, and boxy shape. However, the Gladiator has a unique design: a pickup truck bed. The Wrangler, on the other hand, has a classic SUV profile with a rear-mounted spare tire.
Ground Clearance
Both vehicles have impressive ground clearance, making them ideal for off-roading. The Gladiator has a ground clearance of 11.1 inches, while the Wrangler has a ground clearance of 10.8 inches.
Tires
Both the Gladiator and Wrangler come with all-terrain tires as standard. The Gladiator comes with 33-inch tires, while the Wrangler has 32-inch tires. However, both vehicles can be upgraded to larger tires for better off-road performance.
Convertible Options
One of the most unique features of both the Gladiator and Wrangler is their convertible options. Both vehicles have removable doors and can be fitted with a hard or soft top. However, the Gladiator has an advantage over the Wrangler regarding convertible options, as it is one of the only convertible pickup trucks on the market.
In summary, the Gladiator and Wrangler share many design elements, but there are some critical differences in their dimensions, ground clearance, tires, and convertible options. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Interior Comparison
Comfort and Features
The Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator offer comfortable interiors with ample passenger space. The Wrangler has a slightly smaller wheelbase, which can make it feel a bit more cramped than the Gladiator, but both vehicles offer plenty of headroom and legroom for most passengers.
As for features, both vehicles have standard air conditioning, power windows, and cruise control. The Gladiator offers a few additional features, such as remote engine start and steering wheel controls, but these are also available as options on the Wrangler.
Cargo Volume
One of the most significant differences between the Wrangler and Gladiator is their cargo volume. The Gladiator’s longer wheelbase gives it a larger bed for hauling cargo, making it a better choice for those transporting more oversized items. Conversely, the Wrangler has a more limited cargo area, making it better suited for those prioritizing passenger space over cargo.
Infotainment System
Both vehicles have a standard infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and a touchscreen display. The Gladiator offers additional features, such as a lockable storage area under the rear seat and an optional portable Bluetooth speaker that can be used outside the vehicle.
Overall, while there are some differences between the Wrangler and Gladiator regarding interior features and cargo space, both vehicles offer comfortable interiors and a good range of standard features.
Performance Comparison
Engine
The Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator share the same engine options. Both come standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. However, the Gladiator also offers an optional 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine that delivers 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission
The Wrangler and Gladiator are available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is standard on the Gladiator, while the manual transmission is standard on the Wrangler. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smoother and more fuel-efficient than the six-speed manual.
Off-Road Ability
Both the Wrangler and Gladiator are exceptional off-road vehicles. They have solid front and rear axles, four-wheel drive, and various off-road features like rock-trac, all-terrain tires, and high ground clearance. The Gladiator has a longer wheelbase than the Wrangler, which makes it more stable on rough terrain.
Braking
The Wrangler and Gladiator both have excellent braking performance. They come standard with brake assist, electronic stability, and traction control. The Gladiator has a longer wheelbase than the Wrangler, which can make it slightly more difficult to stop quickly.
Handling
The Wrangler and Gladiator have similar handling characteristics. They both have a solid chassis and a four-wheel-drive system that provides excellent traction and maneuverability. The Gladiator has a longer wheelbase than the Wrangler, which can make it slightly less handy in tight spaces.
The Wrangler and Gladiator are exceptional off-road vehicles with similar performance capabilities. The Gladiator has a longer wheelbase and more towing capacity, while the Wrangler is more maneuverable and has better fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Price Comparison
When it comes to price, the Jeep Wrangler has a lower starting price than the Jeep Gladiator. For the 2022 model year, the Wrangler starts at $28,295, while the Gladiator begins at $34,040. However, the Gladiator has a higher towing capacity and a larger bed than the Wrangler, making it a more versatile vehicle.
It is essential to note that the price difference between the two models can vary depending on the trim level, options, and features. The Gladiator Rubicon, for example, has a starting price of $45,500, while the Wrangler Rubicon starts at $42,690.
If you want to buy a new Jeep, it is worth considering the incentives and deals offered by dealerships. Both the Wrangler and Gladiator have had incentives in the past, such as cashback offers, low APR financing, and lease agreements.
Buying a used Jeep can be a great option if you are on a budget. The Wrangler and Gladiator hold their value well, making them sought after in the used car market. However, remember that used prices vary significantly depending on the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and location.
In summary, the Jeep Wrangler has a lower starting price than the Gladiator, but it offers more versatility with its towing capacity and bed size. It is essential to consider the trim level, options, and incentives when comparing prices between the two models. Buying a used Jeep can be a great option if you are on a budget, but consider the vehicle’s condition, mileage, and location.
Models and Trims
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is available in two-door and four-door models, each with multiple trims. The base model is the Sport, with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. The Sport S adds power windows, locks, air conditioning, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Sahara is the most luxurious trim, adding a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, and heated front seats. The Rubicon is the most off-road capable trim, adding a heavy-duty front axle, electronic sway bar disconnect, and rock rails.
Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck based on the Wrangler. It is available in four trims: Sport, Sport S, Overland, and Rubicon. The base model is the Sport, with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. The Sport S adds power windows, locks, air conditioning, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Overland is the most luxurious trim, adding a 7.0-inch touchscreen, leather seats, and a body-colored hardtop. The Rubicon is the most off-road capable trim, adding locking front and rear differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and rock rails.
The 2020 Jeep Gladiator has been praised for its impressive off-road capabilities and versatility as a pickup truck. The Gladiator offers a range of trim levels to suit different needs and budgets, from the base model to the Rubicon. The Sahara trim is also available for a more luxurious experience. Overall, the Gladiator is an excellent choice for those who want a capable off-road vehicle that can also handle everyday driving.
Safety Features
The Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator have a wide range of safety features to keep drivers and passengers safe on and off-road. Here are some of the critical safety features you can expect to find in both models:
- Brake Assist: This feature helps apply maximum braking force in an emergency to help reduce stopping distances.
- Child Safety Locks: Both models come with child safety locks on the rear doors to help keep young passengers safe and secure.
- Electronic Stability Control: This feature helps to maintain vehicle stability and control during sudden turns or evasive maneuvers.
- Traction Control: This feature helps to prevent wheel slippage during acceleration on slippery or uneven surfaces.
In addition to these standard safety features, the Wrangler and Gladiator offer a range of optional safety upgrades, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
It’s worth noting that the Gladiator has received a 4-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Wrangler has not yet been rated. However, both models have various advanced safety features that help keep you and your passengers safe.
Overall, the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator are excellent choices if you’re looking for a vehicle with advanced safety features and capabilities. Whether driving on the highway or off-road, these vehicles are designed to keep you safe and secure.
Competitor Comparison
Chevrolet Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck that competes with the Jeep Gladiator. While both trucks offer exceptional off-road capability, the Gladiator has a more rugged and iconic design. The more modern and sleek Colorado may appeal to some buyers.
In terms of performance, the Gladiator has a standard V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Colorado has a standard four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque. The Gladiator also has a more advanced four-wheel drive system, allowing it to conquer more challenging terrain.
The Gladiator has an advantage over the Colorado regarding towing and payload capacity. The Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 pounds and has a payload capacity of up to 1,700 pounds, while the Colorado can tow up to 7,000 pounds and has a payload capacity of up to 1,578 pounds.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is another mid-size pickup truck that competes with the Jeep Gladiator. The Tacoma has a reputation for being one of the most reliable trucks on the market, but the Gladiator offers a more unique and customizable driving experience.
In terms of performance, the Gladiator has a standard V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The Tacoma has a standard four-cylinder engine that produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The Gladiator also has a more advanced four-wheel drive system, allowing it to conquer more challenging terrain.
The Gladiator has an advantage over the Tacoma regarding towing and payload capacity. The Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 pounds and has a payload capacity of up to 1,700 pounds, while the Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds and has a payload capacity of up to 1,440 pounds.
The Jeep Gladiator offers a more unique and customizable driving experience than the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma. It also has better off-road capability and towing and payload capacity. However, the Colorado and Tacoma may appeal to buyers prioritize reliability and a more modern design.
Conclusion
The Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator are excellent vehicles offering a unique blend of off-road capability and everyday practicality. They share many similarities, including iconic styling, solid axles, and removable tops and doors.
However, there are also some critical differences between the two vehicles that may influence your decision. The Gladiator offers a larger cargo area and towing capacity, while the Wrangler is more nimble and easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
Choosing between the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator depends on your needs and preferences. The Gladiator is the clear choice if you need a pickup truck for hauling cargo or towing a trailer. However, the Wrangler is the way to go if you prioritize off-road capability and maneuverability.
Regardless of which vehicle you choose, you can rest assured that you are getting a high-quality car built to handle whatever challenges you throw. Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator have a well-deserved reputation for toughness, durability, and reliability, making them excellent choices for anyone who loves adventure and exploration.
