Jeep Gladiator

With a history dating back to the 1960s, the Gladiator is one of Jeep’s most storied vehicles. As its name suggests, it’s rugged, versatile, and strong, combining the off-road prowess of the Wrangler (which it’s based on) with the towing and hauling utility of a midsize truck. Owners appreciate the Gladiator not only for those qualities but also for its removable roof and doors, which enable open-air adventures. On the downside, some note that its ride quality can be a bit harsh compared to rivals. Additionally, it tends to be pricier than many in its class. But overall, the Gladiator’s unique blend of capabilities and style makes it a worthwhile alternative to more ordinary pickups.

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With a history dating back to the 1960s, the Gladiator is one of Jeep’s most storied vehicles. As its name suggests, it’s rugged, versatile, and strong, combining the off-road prowess of the Wrangler (which it’s based on) with the towing and hauling utility of a midsize truck. Owners appreciate the Gladiator not only for those qualities but also for its removable roof and doors, which enable open-air adventures. On the downside, some note that its ride quality can be a bit harsh compared to rivals. Additionally, it tends to be pricier than many in its class. But overall, the Gladiator’s unique blend of capabilities and style makes it a worthwhile alternative to more ordinary pickups.

Jeep Gladiator Model Lineup

The Jeep Gladiator is a midsize truck that is available in a crew cab configuration with room for up to five passengers. It's the only pickup in Jeep's lineup, and it shares its underpinnings with the Wrangler, an off-road SUV. Like that model, the Gladiator features solid front and rear axles, a coil-spring suspension, and the ability to remove the doors, roof, and windshield for a unique open-air experience. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 7,650 pounds.

Jeep offers the Gladiator in a range of trims, including Sport, Sport S, Overland, Rubicon, and Mojave. The Sport and Sport S are the entry-level options, while the Overland adds more comfort and convenience features. The Rubicon and Mojave, on the other hand, are focused on off-road performance, with upgraded suspensions, locking differentials, and other off-road-specific features.

The Gladiator initially came with a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque and paired with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. In 2021, Jeep introduced an optional 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, which delivers 260 hp and 442 lb-ft and is mated exclusively to an 8-speed automatic. All versions come standard with four-wheel drive.

Inside the cabin, the base model gets a standard 5-inch infotainment screen, while higher trims offer a 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is available from the Sport S trim and above and became standard on all but the base Sport trim in 2021. Advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning are also available as options on higher trims.

When shopping for a used Jeep Gladiator, consider the 2021 or newer models if you're interested in the diesel engine option. The Overland trim offers a good balance of technology and luxury features, while the Rubicon and Mojave trims cater to off-road enthusiasts with specialized equipment.

Jeep Gladiator Owner Reviews

Average Rating for 2020

4.4

349 verified owner reviews

Ratings Compared by Year

Top 2020 Reviews

Christopher P. from NY

Verified Owner · Feb, 2021

2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

4.0

Less than expected gas mileage. Rides as expected.

Tina Z. from IL

Verified Owner · Jan, 2021

2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

5.0

Unique with a beautiful interior and exterior. Versatile and adaptive to every situation on the road. Gas guzzler and not very fast, maybe a V8 would be the solution.

Stephen M. from FL

Verified Owner · Jan, 2021

2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave

5.0

I like the locking rear end so I don't lose traction when pulling a boat out of the water. I also like the a.c. outlet in the back seat for shopvac and small tools.

Rene P. from FL

Verified Owner · Jan, 2021

2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave

5.0

Great performance off road. Great ride. Great quality. Solid construction. Great looking vehicle. Fun to drive.

Francisco R. from AZ

Verified Owner · Dec, 2020

2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

4.0

It's a 3 in 1 vehicle that is practical and fits my needs and expectations, not too big, not too small, just right.

Michael F. from FL

Verified Owner · Dec, 2020

2020 Jeep Gladiator Sport

5.0

Great value for the money

Peter O. from IL

Verified Owner · Dec, 2020

2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland

5.0

It's fun and functional all in one.

Alexander G. from IL

Verified Owner · Dec, 2020

2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

5.0

The gladiator is amazing. If you want the ability to get the open air feeling of a wrangler or a convertible while still having the ability of a pickup truck to haul, then this is the vehicle for you. It has amazing off road abilities directly from the manufacture and a huge range of aftermarket products to make it your own. The gladiator is by far my favorite vehicle I've owned so far.

Michael S. from FL

Verified Owner · Dec, 2020

2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave

2.0

Locking rear axle only works in 4 wheel low range which is useless.

Ron A. from MI

Verified Owner · Dec, 2020

2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland

5.0

Don't hesitate to purchase one. A great blend of functionality and superior styling.