You might be telling yourself; that a Gladiator is just a Jeep Wrangler with a bed. Well, let me tell you this. You’re wrong on several aspects right there. We’re comparing an SUV with something like a pickup truck here.
But I really wouldn’t deny that both the vehicles have quite some similarities within them. To be honest, the Jeep Wrangler Vs. Gladiator topic has been on the general consumer’s mind for quite some time now. Not to worry, this detailed write-up will solve all the doubts and dilemmas.
Even though the Jeep gladiator looks practically like the Jeep Wrangler in truck form, you need to know which one is proper for you. You don’t want to swap one for the other straight away. So, buckle up! We’re in for a bumpy ride.
Contents
Strengths of the Wrangler
Before we clear the differences between both vehicles, let’s take a look at what makes the Jeep Wrangler stand apart from the competition.
Off Road Superiority
You might find yourself in a tricky situation while getting a Jeep Wrangler for yourself at this time of the year. There are so many variants and new editions. However, you should be well aware that Jeep Wranglers (All of them in general) thrive most when it comes to the 4×4 off-roading capability.
If you have a certain itch for exploring rugged terrains, then the Jeep Wrangler is definitely the one for you.
Customizability Options
When it comes to the term “Pimping your ride,” you’ll probably be quite satisfied with the huge array of customizability options that Jeep Wranglers offer. If you want your vehicle to have your own custom signature, then you’ll hardly look the other way, to be honest.
Strengths of the Gladiator
If you look closely, there are quite some similarities in between the Jeep Wrangler and the Gladiator. In fact, they both look similar from the front view. With that said, let’s see what makes the Gladiator shine the most.
The Best Pickup Option
Let me get this straight; if you’re looking for a pickup and have a bit of extra dough to spend, then the Jeep Gladiator is really hard to beat. With ample off-roading capabilities, you’ll be able to remove the top and enjoy the cool breeze and sunny skies.
The Smarter Choice
If you’re a believer in the spend less, get more philosophy, then the Jeep Gladiator will take you to a win-win situation. I mean, hey, it’s way more affordable and offers a superb interior. Apart from fulfilling your basic vehicle needs, you can also think of a bit of off-roading with this baby here.
Plus, when it comes to towing capacities, it beats the Wrangler by a long shot.
Comparing The Facts
Now that we’ve covered the perks that allure the consumers to the vehicles let’s take a more practical approach. Now, I’ll compare both the Jeep Wrangler and the Gladiator head-to-head to offer you a much clearer picture. So, let’s begin.
The Exterior Style
- As I said before, the front view of the Gladiator and the Wrangler is pretty darn similar. Both of these vehicles look rather similar to the B Pillar.
- The Wrangler is available in two or four-door functions. At the same time, the Gladiator comes with four doors specifically.
- When it comes to the sheer size, it can be said that the Gladiator is about 19 inches longer in comparison to the Wrangler.
- The Gladiator has its wheels pushed a bit further back. And you’ll find that there’s a dedicated bed that replaces the cargo area of the SUV in comparison.
The Interior Assets
- The backseat of the Jeep Gladiator here gets a thumbs up from my side. Yes, I’m talking about the extra spaced-out room.
- The Wrangler Can’t be beaten with a bed. Cargo space isn’t available here. But the bed cover can close the gap to quite some extent to be honest.
- Compared to the Wrangler’s tight-fit latched car seat, the Gladiator’s booster seat is easily removable. This gives easy access to the under-seat storage.
- Both of these vehicles have wind noise. There’s really no escaping that. But, keep note that the Gladiator offers less of an echo.
The Wheelbase Difference
The Gladiator’s wheelbase is 137.3 inches, to be exact. While on the other hand, the Jeep Wrangler has a wheelbase of 118.4 inches. So, we have a total difference of 18.9 inches here.
I’ll be honest here; you won’t feel the difference on the road either way. But the off-road experience can prove to be a completely different story. The Gladiator can offer 33, 35, and 37-inch-tall tires. These do compensate quite a lot for the longer wheelbase.
But still, the belly of the truck does get more punished when compared to the Jeep Wrangler. And that’s something you really should keep in mind.
So, the Wrangler has a clear winner when it comes to maneuverability in this regard.
The Stop and Go Feature
You might be interested to know that both the Wrangler and the Gladiator come with the 3.6L V6, which is backed up by an eight-speed automatic. If you put these stock features in the cauldron of comparison, then I’ll have to say that the Jeep Wrangler offers a tad faster experience.
When it comes to holding overdrive, the Wrangler honestly does a better job. The biggest difference here between the two is probably in the braking sector. The Gladiator here shows off its flying colors over the wrangler. The Wranglers pedals feel a bit spongier, which really isn’t very appreciated by me.
Fuel Economy
This is probably the part for which you’ve all been waiting for. So, let’s get into it without delay.
The Wrangler
If you keep the V6 Wrangler in mind, then the EPA-based ratings are 17/23/19 mpg consecutively on city/highway/combined testing cycles. However, if you choose the eight-speed automatic transmission, then the numbers improve to 18/23/20 mpg.
But then again, if you go for the Turbo Charged Wrangler (Automatic only), you’ll get the EPA ratings of 23/25/24 mpg. Surprisingly, the heavier four-door models get 22/24/22 mpg ratings. Hey, don’t ask me; I’m just stating the weird facts.
A total fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gallons or 21.5 gallons grant respectively the two to four-door wranglers the benefit here. You should know that the turbo four has no mercy on the expensive stuff, either.
If you put some diesel power in it, then the outcome will be 25 mpg in combined, split 22/29 in the town area and out, along with the Rubicon trims that drop to 21/26 and 23 mpg for combined. Pretty interesting, right? Elsewhere, the 4xe Wrangler has the average of 50 mpg in combined.
The Gladiator
You can expect a 22-gallon tank in pretty much every Gladiator. The V6 model EPA ratings go at 19 mpg combined. This is of course regardless of the choice in transmission. 16/23 in the city and highway. If you opt for the eight-speed auto, you’re gonna get at best 17/22.
Interestingly, the EcoDiesel-equipped Gladiators get a score of 22/28/24 (Minus one in each case with the Rubicon experience).
So, the Wrangler owns a clear victory when it comes to the fuel economy battle.
Comfort and Safety
Now that we’ve covered some technical and economic aspects let’s look at how both the vehicles keep up in the comfort and safety department. But to be honest, none of the two have a specific safety rating. Neither have they been fully crash-tested. Yeah, that is indeed a surprising fact.
But just in case you’re concerned, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors are there in both of them. Not to talk about removable doors, roofs, and windshields. These factors make both the options quite appealing.
Keep in mind that are multiple models for the Wrangler. The very base models have quite a lot of features missing them. These include power windows and locks, alloy wheels, and air conditioning. Adding these raises the price to quite some extent, even more so in the Wrangler.
Some consider the Wrangler to be more comfortable, keeping in mind the fuel economy, the larger backseat, an optional two-door model, and of course, being the best off-roader.
Tech Advantage
When the technological advantage comes to play, the Gladiator might have to take the win. As the upgrades cost less in comparison to the Wrangler, and the special features like removable Bluetooth speakers, Air Conditioning in every model, front-facing cameras, and an array of USB ports make it seem ever more advanced.
Cargo Capacity
For ample locked and dry space, it’s really difficult to beat the Wrangler to be frank. However, the bed in the Gladiator makes it easier to travel with ridiculously large stuff. And yes, you can even consider a medium-sized tree. I’m not even joking.
But still, if you’re considering about the exact numbers, let’s give you a general idea. The four-door Unlimited version of the Wrangler rocks 31.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity, and 72.4 cubes if you prefer keeping the rear seat folded.
On the other hand, the total box volume of the Gladiator is approximately 35.5 cubic feet. With the tailgate shut, the box length measures up to 60.3 inches. Drop the gate, and voila! You get up to 81.3 inches in length.
Which Should Be Your Pick?
Well, to be honest, it’s a matter of personal preference entirely. I’ve elaborated on all the features I deemed essential. Some of the pros might seem ‘Meh” to you, and some of the cons can be overlooked as well. But I’d advise you to keep your choices exact to come to a solid decision.
The Gladiator is an awesome alternative to an SUV or a midsized truck. But if you’re an adventurer who’s looking for some off-road Jeep Thrills, then there’s no beating the Wrangler.
The Final Gear
Well, now that we’re at the end of the road, I hope you’ve found all the info you were looking for. We’ve compared both the vehicles toe to toe. And I firmly believe that this should put a close to the age-old Jeep Wrangler Vs. Gladiator debate. So, farewell for now.