Jeep Gladiator vs Jeep Wrangler

Jun 01, 2024 - 4 minute read

Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Gladiator

Which is better, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler or the Gladiator? It’s kind of an age-old question, an SUV or a truck? Both models have their respective fan bases, especially since each has their own specialties. The Gladiator is a truck with a 5-foot bed, while the Wrangler is slightly better off-road due to its legendary vehicle heritage. 

An Historic Institution

The Jeep Wrangler is an institution. It has been around since 1986 and is one of the most purchased vehicles in history, with more than 5,000,000 made and sold. A Wrangler is also the perfect vehicle for aftermarket modifications for special off-road adventures like driving on the beach, mudding, or rock crawling. No matter your hobby, the Wrangler will be a great vehicle. 

Not Its First Rodeo

While many people think the Gladiator is a first-ever vehicle, the current generation is actually the second iteration of the Gladiator. The actual first-ever Gladiator was on sale from 1962 until 1971. Starting in ‘72, the Gladiator was simply known as either the Jeep J-Series or the Pickup. As a pickup truck, the Gladiator has its own faithful following. Even though the modern model shares quite a bit with the Wrangler, it’s still a unique vehicle that gives buyers more than just an SUV-style off-roader. Like the Wrangler, it is a great off-road vehicle with a lot of flexibility with the truck bed and nearly 20 inches of extra wheelbase to accommodate that bed. 

Trim Levels

The Jeep Gladiator is available in seven different trim levels, including Sport, Sport S, Willys, Rubicon, Mojave, Rubicon X, and Mojave X. The Wrangler is available in eight different trims, including Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, Rubicon X, Rubicon 392, and Rubicon 392 Final Edition. 

Engines and Transmissions

Both the Wrangler and Gladiator have a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque as standard, and they are paired with either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The Gladiator can be optioned with a manual transmission in all trims, while the Wrangler can be equipped with the manual on all trims except for the 392 and 392 Final Edition. Both models also come standard with four-wheel drive. However, the Wrangler is also available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 270 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, a 6.4-liter V8 that pumps out 470 horsepower and torque, and the 4xe plug-in hybrid that has 375 combined horsepower and 470 combined lb-ft of torque. The Gladiator and Wrangler can both remove their doors and roofs, and the front windshield can be laid flat. 

Price and Warranty

Because the Jeep Wrangler can be purchased as a two-door model, its base price is quite a bit lower than that of the Gladiator. The base MSRP of a 2024 Wrangler two-door is $31,995 and $36,595 for the four-door, while the base price of the Gladiator is $37,895. For that price, both cars get a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty with three years of free regularly scheduled maintenance. 

Towing Capacity

Buyers looking to tow regularly with their new Jeep may end up preferring the Gladiator. When properly equipped, the Wrangler has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs, which is pretty good for a vehicle that’s not known for its towing abilities. However, for the 2024 model year, Gladiator models can tow up to 7,700 lbs when properly equipped. That’s quite a big jump, especially if you are looking for a vehicle that can tow two horses, a decent-sized boat, or cars. 

Which One Should You Buy?

Picking between the Wrangler and the Gladiator really comes down to what you need it for. Do you need to tow quite a bit, or do you expect to have to tow more often than not? Then, the Gladiator is the vehicle for you. Are you just into rubber ducks and going on various trail-riding adventures, camping, or the beach? Well, either one can be your huckleberry. The Wrangler is the classic choice for those who love being outdoors, but the Gladiator is catching up fast. 

At Krusen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we offer our customers some of the best prices and services around. With dozens of new and used vehicles to choose from, as well as new and used Hybrid and 4XE models, our excellent sales team and finance department will work hard to make sure you drive away happy. And our fantastic service department will take care of your new-to-you vehicle as if it were their own.

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