With unquestionable off-road capability and solid payload and towing ratings, the 2024 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
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Kurt Niebuhr has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. A automotive photographer by trade, Kurt is now one of Edmunds' high-performance test drivers. He's driven and photographed hundreds, if not thousands, of vehicles all over the world, so Kurt's library of automotive experiences would certainly make for a good book. When not dreaming about getting his racing license or trying to buy out-of-date film for his cameras, Kurt can usually be found cursing at his 1966 Mustang.
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 and uncomfortable at times
Subpar fuel economy and acceleration
What's new
Larger center touchscreen
New first- and second-row side curtain airbags
Restyled grille
Diesel engine is discontinued
Part of the first Gladiator generation introduced for 2019
Overview
The Jeep Gladiator looks a bit like a Wrangler run through one of Willy Wonka's taffy-pulling machines. The Gladiator aims to pack the off-road capability of the Wrangler into the function-heavy body of a midsize pickup. You won't find a truck as eye-catching as the Jeep in the category. So, what's the catch? Well, if you're a real Wrangler-head, you already know. This truck is built for off-roading, but its on-road comfort takes a hit as a result.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 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 $3.05 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
The 2024 model year brings a plethora of changes that we've already seen on the 2024 Wrangler — there's a new grille design and some new wheel designs on the outside, and a new 12.3-inch center touchscreen on the inside. This bigger touchscreen replaces the previous 7.4- and 8-inch touchscreens and includes wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which means you can integrate many of your phone's apps into the touchscreen without having to use a USB cord. Other changes for 2024 include newly available power-adjustable front seats (Jeep says not to worry; they're waterproof) and standard side curtain airbags that cover both rows of seating.
Competitors to consider
Overall, the Gladiator is a fun and burly off-road machine that offers more practicality than the Wrangler thanks to its truck bed and hefty towing capacity. No other midsize truck combines quite the same qualities, although some others, like the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma, are easier to live with on a daily basis. The Gladiator's noise levels and ride quality can be acquired tastes. Be sure to read our Expert Rating below to determine if the Gladiator meets your truck needs.
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
7.6
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
With unquestionable off-road capability and solid payload and towing ratings, the 2024 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 $8,443 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; $8,443 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the Rubicon X trim.
How’s the tech? The Gladiator's big center touchscreen is easy to see in all lighting conditions and responds quickly to your touches. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard. But the Gladiator falters when it comes to advanced driver assist systems. Jeep offers the basics, such as blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control, but very little beyond that.
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?
We think the Willys is the most well-rounded trim. It's more civil than the blank-canvas Sport and adds useful features such as adaptive cruise control and power windows and door locks. There's nothing wrong with paying a little extra for the Rubicon, though, especially if you'll frequently venture into rugged terrain.
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Jeep Gladiator models
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator is a midsize pickup truck that seats up to five passengers. It's available in a single configuration — four-door crew cab with a 5-foot bed — and four main trim levels: Sport, Willys, Rubicon and Mojave. Keep reading for our breakdown of the key feature highlights for each trim.
Sport
The base trim kicks things off with:
3.6-liter V6 (285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque)
Part-time four-wheel drive with low-range gearing
Standard six-speed manual transmission or optional eight-speed automatic
Premium folding soft top
Removable doors
Fold-down front windshield
17-inch steel wheels with 32-inch all-season tires
Crank windows, manual door locks and manually adjustable mirrors
Push-button start
Cruise control
Eight-speaker audio system
12.3-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (both with wireless connectivity)
Willys
Upgrades the Gladiator with:
32-inch mud-terrain tires
Rock rails
Locking rear differential
Power doors, windows and mirrors
LED headlights
Class IV tow hitch
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Upgraded driver information display
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the Gladiator and the car in front)
Rubicon
Comes with the extra features from the Willys and further adds:
4.10 rear axle ratio for increased towing and off-road capability
4:1 low-range gearing (provides extra control when off-roading at low speeds)
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
Tow hooks
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:
Fox internal bypass shock absorbers with hydraulic jounce bumpers
1-inch lift for the front suspension
Desert Rated badge (instead of Trail Rated)
Additional notable options for the Gladiator, available as stand-alone items or in packages for certain trim levels, include:
Hardtop with removable roof panels
Steel bumpers
Full-time four-wheel drive
Heated steering wheel
Heated front seats
Power-adjustable front seats
Leather seating surfaces
Alpine premium sound system
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
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!
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.
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.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Jeep Gladiator, so we've included reviews for other years of the Gladiator since its last redesign.
Rivian R1T vs. Jeep Gladiator Off-Road Comparison Test | Can a Rivian Outdo a Jeep on the Trails?
NOTE: This video is about the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, but since the 2024 Jeep Gladiator is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
The Toyota Tacoma has long been held as the foremost off-road-capable midsize pickup. That was before the Gladiator arrived. The Tacoma is an excellent all-around truck, and like the Jeep, it can be modified in hundreds of ways for exceptional off-road performance. For 2024, the Tacoma has been redesigned and comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder powertrain and offers an available 326-hp hybrid powertrain. It's definitely a Gladiator competitor you'll want to check out.
The Colorado was redesigned in 2023 with a sharper exterior design, upgraded interior and a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That turbo-four is the only available engine for the Colorado, while the Jeep offers both gas and diesel-powered V6s. The four-cylinder is no lightweight, though, ranging from 237 hp to 310 hp and offering up to 430 lb-ft of torque, and it's good for up to 7,700 pounds of towing capacity — putting it on par with the Gladiator. The Colorado's ZR2 trim level also offers comparable off-road capability.
Like the Tacoma, the Ranger is redesigned for 2024. Highlights include an improved interior and lots of new technology features. A turbocharged four-cylinder engine is standard, and a turbocharged 315-hp V6 is a new option for 2024. Even more power is available from the new Ranger Raptor trim level, which should be a competitive off-roading rival to the Gladiator.
The Jeep Gladiator looks a bit like a Wrangler run through one of Willy Wonka's taffy-pulling machines. The Gladiator aims to pack the off-road capability of the Wrangler into the function-heavy body of a midsize pickup. You won't find a truck as eye-catching as the Jeep in the category, and rumor has it that the Gladiator will finally come with a hybrid powertrain for the 2024 model year.
So, what's the catch? Well, if you're a real Wrangler-head, you already know. Part of the charm of driving a Jeep is that it's rugged and lives life on the edge. But if a run to the grocery store that tosses you around like a loosely packed bag of vegetables isn't your idea of a good time, the Gladiator might not be the truck for you. This truck is built for off-roading, and its on-road comfort takes a hit as a result.
What's new for 2024?
The big news is the addition of the hybrid powertrain may finally be upon us. That has yet to be confirmed by Jeep, and since we were almost certain it would debut on the Gladiator for the 2023 model year and it didn't, we're not about to cry hybrid wolf again. Nevertheless, if the Gladiator gets a hybrid powertrain for 2024, it will borrow it from the Wrangler. The Wrangler 4xe, or hybrid to the rest of us, comes equipped with a pair of electric motors attached to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed transmission. It's very likely the Gladiator will receive the same setup.
If the 2023 Wrangler gets any new treats, it's possible they'll end up on the 2024 Gladiator as well. But the Gladiator 4xe is the big rumor on the horizon for now. Check back with us for all the details on the 2024 Gladiator as updates roll in.
Edmunds says
If you love the Gladiator as a gas-sucking truck, it's hard to imagine you'll love it any less when you can get it as a hybrid, which could happen for 2024.
FAQ
Is the Jeep Gladiator a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 Gladiator both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.6 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 Gladiator gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 40 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 2024 Jeep Gladiator?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Jeep Gladiator:
Larger center touchscreen
New first- and second-row side curtain airbags
Restyled grille
Diesel engine is discontinued
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 2024 Jeep Gladiator a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Jeep Gladiator is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 Gladiator and gave it a 7.6 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 Gladiator gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 40 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 Gladiator is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Jeep Gladiator?
The least-expensive 2024 Jeep Gladiator is the 2024 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 $37,895.
Other versions include:
Sport 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $37,895
Sport S 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $41,395
Nighthawk 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $43,190
Willys 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $44,995
Texas Trail 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $46,095
Jeep Beach 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $52,995
Mojave 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $52,995
Rubicon 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $52,995
Mojave X 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $62,995
Rubicon X 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M) which starts at $62,995
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), Sport S 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 6M), Nighthawk 4dr Crew Cab 4WD SB (3.6L 6cyl 8A), 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