2022 Jeep Gladiator – Test Drive

A Pickup with Proper Off-Road Attitude

Having 14 brands under the Stellantis automotive group gives Jeep a unique advantage of intermixing DNA across different platforms, and that’s exactly what the Jeep Gladiator is – a pickup truck with Jeep’s legendary off-road capable mechanics built off of the Wrangler platform.

The Jeep Gladiator’s not only got all the fun perks of the Wrangler with removable rooftop panels and a body-on-frame chassis that lives and breathes in the mud, but it’s got an additional two-ton towing capacity and a truck-bed for cargo hauling. The wheelbase is extended as a result and while it’s not as agile as the Wrangler, it’s smoother and more stable on the everyday drive.

Just like all other jeep models, the Gladiator’s got a mesmerizing 10 trims to choose from starting at $38,765 with the Sport trim:

Sport	$38,765
Willys Sport	$41,100
Sport S	$42,175
Altitude	$43,960
Willys	$45,060
Texas Trail	$45,310
Overland	$46,175
Rubicon	$50.705
Mojave	$50,705
High Altitude	$55,675

Under test is the mid-range Willys 4×4 edition that comes with a capable 3.6L Pentastar V6 and an 8-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed manual can be configured, but we prefer the 8-speed automatic for better fuel economy, and ease of driving. Other standard features include Heavy-duty 4 wheel anti-lock disc brakes, traction control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, push-engine start/stop and 1 year subscription to SiriusXM satellite radio.

Powertrain

Standard engine configuration comes with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb.ft of torque with a choice of either a 6-speed manual, or an 8-speed automatic. A diesel 3.0L V6 is also available; which drops the horespoewr down to 260, but produces significantly more torque at 442 lb.ft. Standard trims get a 2.72:1 rear differential, but can be upgraded to a more capable Command Trac part-time 4WD system for improved offroad traction under dirt and mud conditions.

Depending on trim, the Gladiator can tow up to an impressive 6500 pounds with the 3.0L Diesel while the 3.6L Pentastar is rated at 4,500. Still, that’s 500 lbs more towing capacity than the Wrangler.

The Jeep Gladiator packs a ton of unique off-road and pickup features, but that’s not without compromising fuel economy. The Gladiator is rated at just 16mpg on the city and 23 on the highway with the Pentastar 3.6L V6. Opting for the 3.0L EcoDiesel improves the fuel economy with a much more respectable 23 and 28 mpg on both city and highway driving.

Cabin Interior and Versatility and Tech Features

Similar to the Wrangler, the cabin space in the Gladiator sits upright and is constructed of durable and waterproof plastic. Both front passengers have heated cloth seats with a heavy-duty heating element on the steering wheel fitted for the outdoor environment. Thanks to the longer wheelbase, rear passengers also have longer legroom and rear cabin cargo space. Available on our tester comes equipped with removable rooftop panels to create an open-air cabin enjoyed in summer weather.

The Jeep Gladiator sits high off the ground, which makes access to the cabin more difficult without a step gate, but that’s typically a tradeoff for its off-roading purpose.

Standard models come equipped with a 7.0″ screen, but the upgraded 8.4″ display is highly recommended to take advantage of one of the best Infotainment software on the UConnect system. Both 12V and USB connection and charge ports are available in the front with two more available at the back for rear seats passenger. A 115V outlet is also available for external power.

Test Drive and Final Thoughts

By no surprise, the Gladiator feels very similar to the Wrangler, and while the longer wheelbase feels less agile, it’s more stable and controlled overall especially on city and highway driving. Throttle on demand can be slow at times, but the short gear ratios helps the Gladiator pickup speed when needed. One of the major highpoints is how smooth and damped the steering is, in which contributes to a highly controllable and precise steering especially at low speeds in off-road conditions.

The Jeep Gladiator brings a unique hybrid element into the off-road and pickup truck segment and while it’s able to do both; doesn’t particularly do well in either. Still, it fills a gap presently tailored for buyers looking for a unique experience, and we’re starting to see more on the road hinting that Jeep has done something right. We look forward to what the Jeep Gladiator will offer in the upcoming years.

Specifications (As Tested)

• Vehicle : 2022 Jeep Gladiator
• Model : Willys
• Vehicle Type : Off Road / Pickup
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Engine : 3.6L Pentastar
• Transmission :  8-Speed Automatic
• Price as tested: $53,140

Pros

• Unique combination of a pickup-truck platform with off-road 4×4 capability
• Lots of trims, configurations to customize and tailor the vehicle exactly to what the buyers want
• Excellent steering wheel
• Unique driving experience and improved rear passenger cabin space with longer wheelbase

Cons

• Poor fuel economy
• Uncomfortable for long driving, making it not very practical as a daily driver