Has anyone looked at the Jeep Gladiator?

I saw them at the Jeep Beach event this year (Daytona Beach). They offered a ride-along on a small hilly course they built.

It looks neat, but if they want to be a contender, they need to offer a V8 version. I'd consider a hemi version, but V6, no thanks!

While I think the Ecodiesel is a bit too small and under powered for a 1500, I think it is perfect for a mid-size truck like the Gladiator. I know a lot people waiting to buy one when the Ecodiesel version comes out.

It still rides and drives like a Wrangler. So having a V8 is not a big deal for extra towing. The engine performance seems in line for the intended use. If you like the capabilities of the Wrangler but looking for more cargo space this is a good option.

I told myself I was going to buy one when they became available, but they’re just too proud of it. It seems to be about $10k more than a somewhat similarly equipped Colorado or Ranger.

I like them, but after watching TFL pull a 7k trailer up the hill at pretty much 6000 rpm the whole way, I would wait for the ecodiesel as well.
Even though it will have a slightly lower tow rating, I think it will be a more pleasant truck for towing near the rated limit.

I have the same V6 in our minivan. It's a great engine, lots of power, but needs a lot of RPM to get anything done.

For smaller trailers it will be great, way better than a regular Wrangler for midsize truck duties.

ShinerBock wrote:
While I think the Ecodiesel is a bit too small and under powered for a 1500, I think it is perfect for a mid-size truck like the Gladiator. I know a lot people waiting to buy one when the Ecodiesel version comes out.

^ This!
Make a great winter rig for the wife, but WTF???
I'm gonna sound old when I say this, but who the f would pay $45-62k for a little 6 banger gasser Jeep?

I don't get it, you won't see any real discounts on them, Jeeps are too dang popular, so a new Jeep midsize pickup (not even as capable as the DMax Colorado) costs more than I paid for a brand new loaded SRT8 less than 2 years ago or the same price could buy a new Crew Cab diesel for?

J20

It's the only midsize truck I would seriously consider other than a Tacoma, if I were in that smaller truck market. The blend of off-road capability and towing capacity is pretty appealing. I assume you'll give up a little bit on suspension flex and ride quality with stiffer springs compared to a Wrangler, but in return you get better towing ability plus all the cargo space in the bed.

IdaD wrote:
It's the only midsize truck I would seriously consider other than a Tacoma, if I were in that smaller truck market. The blend of off-road capability and towing capacity is pretty appealing. I assume you'll give up a little bit on suspension flex and ride quality with stiffer springs compared to a Wrangler, but in return you get better towing ability plus all the cargo space in the bed.

Ride quality it very comparable. Not much difference. Maybe a little less wandering in the Gladitor. But comparing similar trims like Rubicon/Rubicon or Sahara/Overland you probably will not notice much difference.

If I wanted a mid-size, that is what I would buy. But I would get the Eco Diesel.