The recenlty updated 2024 Jeep Gladiator, lets find out if it’s an SUV ready to battle Phnom Penh traffic and cut through the rough and tumble as we know it.
Jeep has incorporated many of the new features from the latest Wrangler into the Gladiator pickup truck for the 2024 model year. However, some notable exclusions include the SUV’s full float rear axle and other powertrain options besides the standard 3.6-liter V6 engine. But let’s focus on what the Gladiator does offer.
Interior
One of the most important aspects for shoppers is the interior. Compared to the previous Gladiator, the new truck has a more comfortable and inviting design. All models in the range come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface in the center of the dashboard, running Jeep’s latest Uconnect 5 software. While navigation is optional for higher trims, the Android-based system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for all Gladiators.
The Sport model comes with manual seats, locks, and windows, while the Sport S and higher trims offer power locks and doors. The Mojave X and Rubicon X variants come with water-resistant, 12-way power seats to maintain their river-fording capabilities. Jeep Adventure Guides featuring Trails Offroad is also available, giving owners access to a database of trails across the country. Standard safety features include first- and second-row side curtain airbags, along with the usual safety equipment found in modern vehicles.
Trims
For 2024, Jeep has introduced two new trim levels, the Mojave and Rubicon X, which combine luxurious options with off-road hardware. The rest of the lineup remains similar to the previous year, including the Sport, Sport S, and Willys. One visual change from the old to the new models is the reshaped seven-slot grille, distinguishing the 2024 Gladiator.
Running Gear
All Gladiators come equipped with Dana 44 axles, with heavy-duty ratings on the off-road-specific trims. A two-speed transfer case is standard, starting with the Command-Trac part-time system. The Selec-Trac system adds full-time 4×4 capability and a 2.72:1 4LO ratio. The Rubicon comes with the Rock-Trac part-time system, featuring a 4:1 low range, sway bar disconnect, Tru-Lok front and rear axle lockers, 33-inch tires, and steel rock rails.
The Gladiator Mojave, designed for dirt and high-speed trails, includes Fox-branded 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks with remote reservoirs, front hydro jounce bumpers, a one-inch lift, a locking rear axle, an Off-Road+ mode, and rock rails for the cab. It also stands out with orange accents and a hood scoop, all this combined will ensure it’s an SUV ready to battle Phnom Penh.
The maximum towing capacity remains at 7,700 pounds, similar to the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, as well as last year’s Gladiator. The maximum payload of 1,725 pounds is best-in-class and has increased by 15 pounds compared to the 2023 edition. The reasons for this improvement are yet to be revealed. The Gladiator offers a six-speed manual transmission with an exceptional 84:1 crawl ratio, while the majority of buyers will opt for the eight-speed transmission, which reduces the crawl ratio slightly to 77:1.
Missing Features?
All of these features make the Gladiator an incredibly capable truck. Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep Brand North America, emphasizes the Gladiator’s ability to offer open-air freedom while still being a practical truck for daily use. However, there are some features that were expected but not included in the launch, such as the rear axle, turbo-four engine, plug-in hybrid 4xe, and a V8-powered 392, which are available in the flagship Wrangler. Jeep has announced that the 4xe platform will be introduced to the Gladiator soon, and they plan for all Jeep brand vehicles to offer an electrified option by 2025.
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator made its debut at the 2023 Detroit Auto Show and will be available at dealerships in the near future. Watch the video reveal here