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.
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.
Popular Trims
Jeep Gladiator Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2020
4.4
349 verified owner reviews
Top 2020 Reviews
Christopher P. from NY
Verified Owner · Feb, 2021
2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
Less than expected gas mileage. Rides as expected.
Tina Z. from IL
Verified Owner · Jan, 2021
2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
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.
Rene P. from FL
Verified Owner · Jan, 2021
2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
Great performance off road. Great ride. Great quality. Solid construction. Great looking vehicle. Fun to drive.
Stephen M. from FL
Verified Owner · Jan, 2021
2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
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.
Francisco R. from AZ
Verified Owner · Dec, 2020
2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
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
Great value for the money
Peter O. from IL
Verified Owner · Dec, 2020
2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland
It's fun and functional all in one.
Alexander G. from IL
Verified Owner · Dec, 2020
2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
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.
Ron A. from MI
Verified Owner · Dec, 2020
2020 Jeep Gladiator Overland
Don't hesitate to purchase one. A great blend of functionality and superior styling.
Michael S. from FL
Verified Owner · Dec, 2020
2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
Locking rear axle only works in 4 wheel low range which is useless.