With unquestionable off-road capability and solid payload and towing ratings, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator should easily satisfy most truck buyers. But there are some considerable compromises made to everyday comfort and drivability made in pursuit of all this capability.Read full review
Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Ryan has also contributed to Road & Track, Autoweek, Trucks.com and more. In 2019, Ryan published his first book, Slow Car Fast, on the millennial generation and its unique take on modern car culture.
Pros
Rugged Jeep character and off-road prowess
The only convertible truck you can buy
Offers bigger back seat than other midsize pickups
Cons
Steering is slow and vague, particularly on the Rubicon trim
Ride quality can get jiggly at times
Subpar fuel economy
What's new
Freedom Edition package with unique styling and enhanced off-road enhancements
Additional off-road equipment optional on High Altitude trim
More standard features on some trims
Part of the first Gladiator generation introduced for 2019
Overview
There are normal midsize pickup trucks, and then there is the 2023 Jeep Gladiator. Now entering its fourth year on the market, the Gladiator is effectively a truck version of the Jeep Wrangler SUV, and it carries every bit of the no-holds-barred approach of its spiritual donor. Two versions of the Gladiator are mainly intended for everyday use on the street, but its most natural forms are the other two versions that make the most of its impressive ground clearance and rugged demeanor: the robust, rock-crawling Rubicon and the dune-ripping Mojave.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.01 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
For 2023, Jeep is introducing a new package it's calling the Freedom special edition. Like the Willys model, the Freedom Edition is a package available on the Gladiator Sport rather than its own separate trim. Changes for the Freedom model include LED headlights and taillights, body-color fender flares, a winch-capable steel bumper, steel rock rails and black wheels with all-terrain tires. Other updates for 2023 are small but include additional features for some trims.
The Gladiator's intrinsic capability separates the truck from its competitors. Its emphasis on hardcore capability out of the box and is the big reason why you'd choose a Gladiator over say a Chevrolet Colorado or Toyota Tacoma. However, the refinement and comfort do suffer a bit as a result. Check out our Expert Rating below to read our test team's full evaluation of the 2023 Gladiator.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
With unquestionable off-road capability and solid payload and towing ratings, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator should easily satisfy most truck buyers. But there are some considerable compromises made to everyday comfort and drivability made in pursuit of all this capability.
How does the Gladiator drive? We tested a Gladiator Rubicon with the V6 engine. Our test truck needed 8.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. That's a little slow for a midsize pickup, but it doesn't feel like it in everyday driving. The V6 is respectably strong and has no trouble getting you up to highway speeds. The automatic fires off quick and prompt shifts too.
The Gladiator Rubicon is a champ when the pavement turns to dirt. It has plenty of ground clearance and traction to see you through or over just about any obstacle. The Gladiator's longer wheelbase does make it a little less wieldy than a Wrangler on tight trails, but it's not that far off.
On-pavement handling is compromised by the same giant tires and solid front axle that make the Gladiator excel off-road. The steering lacks precision, and crosswinds and road ruts demand some attention. Other midsize trucks are easier and less tedious to drive.
Comfort
7/10
How comfortable is the Gladiator? There's no getting around the fact that the Gladiator's heavy solid-axle front suspension compromises ride comfort. You'll feel the Gladiator wiggle and jiggle more than any other truck when you drive over lumpy asphalt. You'll also hear more wind and road noise than in other trucks. Beyond that, things brighten considerably. The seats are supportive, and the climate control system is powerful and has vents for rear passengers.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The Gladiator has logically arranged controls that are easy to reach. The classic Jeep upright driving position works well here, and the superior backseat space is a real advantage over rival crew-cab pickups. The Gladiator Rubicon, which is the trim we tested, is tall and difficult to climb into, but ample grab handles and wide-opening doors make it easier. And did we mention it's a convertible?
Visibility out of the front and rear is excellent, and drivers can easily place their tires where they need to go. A standard rearview camera can be paired with an optional forward-looking one meant for crawling over obstacles off-road.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $8,413 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $8,413 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the High Altitude trim.
How’s the tech? The infotainment touchscreen has attractive graphics and quick response times. We also like the Glaiator's logical mixture of fixed buttons, knobs and touchscreen controls. Sound quality from the optional stereo is satisfactorily crisp. The Gladiator's available advanced driver aids work well too.
Towing and Storage
7.5/10
How are the towing and storage? The Gladiator provides strong tow ratings (even the Rubicon) and ample payload capacity. Its bed is thoughtfully designed, with low bedsides and a power-locking tailgate. If you're a frequent trailer tower, consider adding aftermarket tow mirrors since the Gladiator's narrow body means you won't be able to look past a wide load with the stock mirrors.
The rear seat's volume and folding strategy make it good for cargo and child seats alike. The Gladiator's main weak point is a lack of storage nooks for your personal items. The glovebox and center console are small, and in-door storage is nothing more than a net pocket.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
6/10
How’s the fuel economy? Just by looking at its blocky styling, you can tell the Gladiator isn't intended to be a fuel economy champ. The Gladiator with the V6 and automatic transmission gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined. That's on par with other six-cylinder-equipped midsize 4WD pickups. Jeep doesn't offer a more fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine option.
Value
6.5/10
Is the Gladiator a good value? The Gladiator is nicely built but expensive compared to other midsize trucks. A manual transmission is standard across the board. That's great if you want one but otherwise you'll have to factor in the added cost of the automatic transmission. On other trucks, that cost is already baked into the MSRP. Warranty coverage is average.
Wildcard
9/10
It's a Jeep Wrangler pickup. Need we say more? Yes, you give up a bit of off-road capability when you go from a four-door Wrangler to this. But if you start from the point of view of "I need a truck," this one oozes outdoor fun and Jeep personality. Competitors like the Colorado and Tacoma offer more in the way of day-to-day comfort for the casual truck buyer but can't match the adventure-ready nature of the Gladiator.
Which Gladiator does Edmunds recommend?
The Overland is the most well-rounded Gladiator trim and provides a solid combination of standard comfort and tech features at a reasonable price. But there's nothing wrong with paying a little more to get the Rubicon. This is a rugged pickup and the Rubicon makes the most of it. We commend Jeep for offering a diesel engine but it's a dubious choice. It'll take many years for the diesel's higher fuel economy to offset its extra cost.
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Jeep Gladiator models
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator is a midsize pickup truck with seating for up to five passengers. It comes in a single configuration: a four-door crew cab with a 5-foot bed. There are four main trim levels: Sport, Overland, Rubicon and Mojave. Keep reading for our rundown of the Gladiator's powertrains and key standard and optional features.
You can choose between two engines:
3.6-liter V6 (285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque)
3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 (260 hp, 442 lb-ft)
The V6 is standard on all three trim levels, as is four-wheel drive. It's paired to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional eight-speed automatic. (The Overland gets the automatic as standard.) The diesel engine is optional for all trims except the Mojave and is paired to an eight-speed automatic.
Sport This base trim kicks things off with:
17-inch steel wheels with 32-inch tires
Folding soft top
Removable doors
Fold-down front windshield
Manual windows, door locks and mirrors
Push-button start
Cruise control
Eight-speaker audio system
7-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Optional packages on the Sport include the Sport, Sport S, Willys, Willys Sport, Texas Trail and Freedom Edition. Each one adds a mix of appearance enhancements and additional features.
Overland This trim level is more well equipped thanks to these standard features:
18-inch alloy wheels
Automatic headlights
Rear privacy glass
Power windows, locks and mirrors
Keyless entry
Nine-speaker Alpine audio system
8.4-inch touchscreen
Navigation system
Rear USB ports
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Available on the Overland trim is the High Altitude package with several comfort and technology upgrades.
Rubicon A hallowed nameplate among hardcore off-roaders, this trim level is ready for rugged adventure with:
17-inch wheels
4.10 rear axle ratio for increased towing and off-road capability
33-inch all-terrain tires
Fenders with increased clearance
Locking front and rear differentials
Electronically disconnecting front stabilizer bar
Fox shock absorbers
Body-protecting rock rails and skid plates
Special two-speed transfer case for better off-road gearing
Upgraded cloth upholstery
Mojave Designed for high-speed desert trails and dunes, this version loses the locking front differential and disconnecting stabilizer bar from the Rubicon but adds:
Reinforced frame
Transfer case tuned to run four-wheel drive at higher speeds
Fox internal bypass shock absorbers with hydraulic jounce bumpers
1-inch lift for the front suspension
Desert Rated badge (instead of Trail Rated)
All trims can be equipped with a variety of options, including:
Auxiliary switch group for wiring up to four electrical devices
Spray-in bedliner and a semi-rigid roll-up tonneau cover
Three-piece hardtop with removable roof panels or a premium soft top
Additional notable options for the Gladiator, available as stand-alone items or in packages, include:
LED headlights
Heated steering wheel
Heated front seats
Leather seating surfaces
Class IV tow hitch
Available driver safety aids include:
Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
Rear parking sensors
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Gladiator and the car in front)
Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
2022 Jeep Gladiator Sport S 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M)
I highly recommend the Sport S with the Max Tow Package. Torquey and smooth, the automatic 8-speed transmission is pretty nice with the trusty 3.6 L V6. It's a real hauler or puller when I need it, it's articulation is great for some off road adventures and is comfortable on the highway. Plus, the sticker on my door has a rated payload of 1465 lbs! Don't let them tell you it's not "Jeep" … enough or it's not "truck" enough or it's not comfy enough. Get the customer preferred package with hard top and stick with the M+S rated all terrains for smooth and quiet daily driving. This is a perfect niche vehicle for some people!
ordered basic truck with manual everything. its my daily and i squeezed 28 mpg on a 60 mile run. i belive if babied i could consistently get 26 mpg on highway. great vehicle so far 4600 miles, makes communting fun
Love it so far
5 out of 5 stars
Treemanrick, 04/09/2022
2022 Jeep Gladiator Sport S 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M)
I drove it from Richmond Va. to Orlando fl. And back. The average was 30.1 mpg. Not bad. Got the deal from Dotta Chrysler Jeep in Pa. They delivered to Richmond. Va. I asked a little more for my trade and they agreed. Chris is a working sales guy. A regular guy. No hype. See Chris. It is a sport s diesel. Not a choice on Edmonds.
Prior to purchase of our new '22 Gladiator Willy's Sport, we were previously looking at a new JL '22 Wrangler 2 door Willy's to replace a '14 Jeep Patriot (2.4l, 4WD, 5spd manual). We had thought we had what we wanted sorted out, particularly being a Manual Transmission and were planning to special order the Wrangler, but we wanted to test drive a manual beforehand. A local dealer had … only one manual transmission truck on the lot, a '22 Gladiator Mojave (3.6l, 4.10 rear, 6spd manual). That's where we learned the master cylinder for the manual trans used in the JT & JL's has horrible feel. It's easy enough, but lacks feel for the engagement point. Also, the manual trans gearing is way too tall for the final gear ratios selected. If it had 4.88's stock, it would be a lot better with the manual, literally too tall to use 6th on the highway unless you're breaking the speed limit. We did come away with a great appreciation for Gladiator itself since it could actually replace two vehicles instead of one and decided to further investigate and test drive an 8spd Automatic one.
It's a completely different truck with the well matched gear ratios of the 8spd Automatic transmission, even with the base diff 3.73 final gearing. We tested several others, including a base Sport model (3.73 rear) with a manual 6spd again just to confirm the clutch feel was that way across the board and a Sport S with the Max Tow package (4.10 gearing & 8spd automatic trans, stiffer suspension/firmer truck like ride, etc) to narrow down the drivetrain options. We decided on the base gas 3.6l Willy's Sport, with the 8spd automatic and factory tow hitch as the only options. With these trucks, there's only 4wd, even stock you get dual Dana 44 rears. The Willys package adds a Limited Slip Rear differential, aluminum rims w/ mud terrain tires, rock rails and appearance features like a blacked out grill & bumper, tinted windows, painted fenders and retro decals.
What makes these specials compared to their other mid-size counterparts isn't entirely about what you get with them, but what they don't come with. Manual windows, manual locks, manual seats, manual transfer case (less to fail), basic screen display, actual manual knob controls instead of the screen, basic & functional plastic interior, minimal Nanny Devices, etc. Simple & durable over the long haul. As for what comes standard, Dana 44 solid front & rear axles, 3.73 gearing, A/C, Cruise Control (an option on almost all other mid size trucks), 4/7 way trailer wiring, floor drains, lockable interior storage, LED bed lights, trans/fuel tank skids, a convertible top, 8 speaker stereo std, brake-lock diffs, etc. Let's not forget that it's the most capable 4WD mid-size truck, even the base models work well off-road and the aftermarket support if you want to modify is endless.
This isn't the truck for everyone. Those that basically want a car with a truck bed or expect that level of luxury & quietness may not like the simplicity of the Gladiator. The Gladiator is like a New-Old truck, just refined. It's narrow enough (just like the JL) and has the right running gear to get into some serious off-roading, and the electronics don't get in the way while doing so unlike other brands. It rides superbly well for a solid front axle vehicle. The windshields are prone to cracking from stones due to the angle. There is some extra noise, especially with a soft top, but it's much less then you'd expect short of when it's raining. The exterior door hinges are prone to chipping paint sheerly because of the fact that they are designed for easy removal and stick out. The 3.6l V6 is a little chattery, but it's normal and runs well. Oil changes are a breeze with the top mount oil filter. Also, the heater in these is exceptionally good! Heats up very quickly and will literally fry your fingers like a hot dog. The standard 8 speaker stereo sounds fantastic. The Android Auto and screen are easy to use. The back-up camera is very clear. The soft top is very easy to drop on a nice day and makes clear warm night drives extra special. The hard top panels are easy to remove too. The fuel economy is exceptional for a 4,700 pound truck with a non-direct injected gas engine. I'm getting 18mpg on stock running gear in the city & 22 unladden on the highway. It tows my 3,000.lb loaded trailer without breaking a sweat (the 8spd auto/gas V6/3.73 gearing max tow capacity at 6,000.lbs). The ZF 8spd auto is one of the best modern "too many gears" automatics. It's always in the correct gear for the situation, doesn't "hunt" around or automatically upshift to 8th when you're barely spinning enough RPM's for 5th. It'll automatically downshift to use engine braking on declines as well. Shifting is smooth. The manual transfer case shifts better as it gets used (breaks in/meshes between range shifting) and works as it should. Fit & finish is better than my decades worth of GM's (which I still own, LOL). Seats are firm but comfortable. The rears are easy to fold-up or remove.
Also should note, they are built at the original Willy's-Overland plant in Toledo, OH where all the Wranglers and the original Gladiator trucks were built.
After 5,000 miles, and more than a few of those earning a few Jeep Honor Trail badges and clambering off-road, it's holding up exceptionally well. No trips back to the dealer for warranty issues yet either.
It's everything you need and nothing you don't.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, so we've included reviews for other years of the Gladiator since its last redesign.
The Toyota Tacoma is an excellent all-around midsize truck. It's less rugged than the Gladiator, but its compact size and well-built components are a great match for the outdoors. It's not fast or agile, though, and not everyone is a fan of the driver's seat positioning. Otherwise, the Tacoma is fun and easy to use. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Toyota Tacoma.
The Colorado has been redesigned for 2023. It features a redesigned exterior, a much-improved interior and a new turbocharged engine. It's significantly less expensive than the Gladiator, too. In ZR2 guise, the Colorado offers off-road capabilities that are comparable to what you'll find in the Gladiator.
The Ford Ranger is a flawed midsize pickup, with one major advantage: its engine. Every Ranger comes standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder that packs a wallop. Unfortunately the rest of the truck trails the class, from ride quality to use of interior space. Off-road versions are available, but they don't match the most capable Gladiator trims.
Even though it took Jeep a while to do it, introducing the Gladiator, essentially a Wrangler with a pickup bed, was pretty much a no-brainer for the brand. It combines most of the Wrangler's deeply impressive off-road capability with strong towing numbers and the kind of practicality that can only come from a pickup bed. Ready to rock crawl right off the showroom floor, the Gladiator has proven to be a huge hit among the Jeep faithful, and it's highly unlikely that Jeep will do anything too drastic for 2023.
That said, reports abound that Jeep will fit the Wrangler's 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain into the Gladiator, but whether it will show up for 2023 is uncertain. Making 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft, as well as offering 22 miles of pure EV range, the 4xe powertrain should prove to be plug and play (see what we did there?) with the Gladiator. Since that powertrain is only offered in the higher trim levels of the Wrangler, we expect the same for the Gladiator. Incidentally, the 4xe powertrain will make its debut in the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee early in 2022.
Speaking of Jeep powertrains, is there hope of seeing a Gladiator 392? Since the Wrangler has made ridiculous use of the 6.4-liter V8, it wouldn't be too much of a stretch to imagine the Jeep folks adding it to the Gladiator lineup, just because they can. As for other changes, we expect them to be mild and fairly subtle. But if the Gladiator is a little too rough around the edges for you, check out the Chevy Colorado with the ZR2 package, the Toyota Tacoma outfitted in its TRD Pro trim, or the hot new Ford Bronco.
Edmunds says
Adaptability and capability are two hallmarks of the Jeep Gladiator, and it's possible the trucky Jeep will take on the future with the brand's 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain in the 2023 model. We'll know more in the coming months, so stick with Edmunds for all the latest updates on one of the most unique vehicles on the market.
FAQ
Is the Jeep Gladiator a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Gladiator both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2023 Gladiator gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 34 reviews) And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Jeep Gladiator. Learn more
What's new in the 2023 Jeep Gladiator?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Jeep Gladiator:
Freedom Edition package with unique styling and enhanced off-road enhancements
Additional off-road equipment optional on High Altitude trim
More standard features on some trims
Part of the first Gladiator generation introduced for 2019
To determine whether the Jeep Gladiator is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Gladiator. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Gladiator's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2023 Jeep Gladiator a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Jeep Gladiator is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Gladiator and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2023 Gladiator gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 34 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Gladiator is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2023 Jeep Gladiator?
The least-expensive 2023 Jeep Gladiator is the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $38,775.
Other versions include:
Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $38,775
Willys Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB w/Prod. End 04/23 (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $40,615
Sport S 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $42,475
Willys 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $46,220
Overland 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $46,580
Freedom 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB w/Prod. End 04/23 (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $47,000
Texas Trail 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $48,320
Mojave 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $50,995
Rubicon 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $50,995
High Altitude 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $54,080
If you're interested in the Jeep Gladiator, the next question is, which Gladiator model is right for you? Gladiator variants include Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M), Willys Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB w/Prod. End 04/23 (3.6L 6cyl 6M), Sport S 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M), and Willys 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M). For a full list of Gladiator models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more