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Jeep Gladiator Enters the Pickup Truck Arena
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Jeep unit took the wraps off the all-new Gladiator midsize pickup truck at this week’s Los Angeles auto show, after images were leaked online earlier this month.
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Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Jeep unit took the wraps off the all-new Gladiator midsize pickup truck at this week’s Los Angeles auto show, after images were leaked online earlier this month.
Due to hit the streets next spring, the 2020 crew cab model is based on the Wrangler Unlimited SUV. Pricing will be announced later.
The Gladiator has a 19-inch longer wheelbase than the Wrangler and is 31 inches longer from bumper to bumper to support a 5-ft cargo bed.
A five-link coil suspension is exclusive to the Gladiator for improved on-road ride comfort. Other changes include larger openings in the pickup’s seven-slot grille to enhance airflow for towing.
Other components are shared with the Wrangler, including Dana solid front and rear axles and the Command-Trac 4x4 system. The top-of-the-line Rubicon trim level gets Jeep’s heavy-duty Rock-Trac off-road package, which includes wider axles, electronic locking front and rear differentials, shorter gearing, electronic anti-roll bar disconnect, stronger bumper and rocker guards, Fox monotube shocks, 33-inch tires and raised fender flares.
Jeep says the new pickup has a 44° approach angle, a 20° break-over angle and a 26° departure angle. The pickup has 11 inches of ground clearance and can ford 30 inches of water. An optional front-looking camera (right) helps drivers see obstacles when climbing over hills.
At launch, the sole engine will be a 3.6-liter V-6 mated to a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The engine, which is borrowed from the Wrangler, makes 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.
In 2020, a 3.0-liter V-6 diesel also will become available. Reworked from the outgoing Ram EcoDiesel, the oil-burner generates 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. Both engines will come with automatic stop-start systems to boost fuel efficiency.
Maximum towing capacity is 7,650 lbs with the 3.6-liter engine and the 8-speed automatic. Payload tops out at 1,600 lbs with the 6-speed manual.
The steel cargo bed is available with under-rail lighting, integrated cargo tie-downs and a covered 115-volt power outlet.
As with the Wrangler, the Gladiator features several roof options. These include removable soft and hard tops, along with removable doors and a folding windshield.
The interior is nearly identical to the Wrangler’s, including an optional 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen. Among the differences are lockable storage compartments (right) under the second row of seats.