2021 Jeep Gladiator

2021 Jeep Gladiator Highlights

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator builds upon its debut, offering enhanced features and new trim options. This unique vehicle combines the off-road prowess of a Wrangler with the utility of a pickup truck, creating a versatile choice for adventure enthusiasts. The Gladiator can trace its lineage to the Jeep Comanche pickup from the 1980s and 1990s and shares many components with the highly popular Wrangler SUV.

Key Details

• Midsize pickup truck body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• EcoDiesel V6 engine available on select trims
• Introduction of 80th Anniversary Edition and Willys models
• Full-time four-wheel drive system now offered on all trims
• Forward-facing TrailCam added to Overland trim
• LED headlights and fog lights now available on Sport trim
• Rubicon and Mojave trims cater to different off-road preferences

Benefits

• The unique combination of Wrangler-like features with pickup truck utility
• Impressive off-road capabilities, especially in Rubicon and Mojave trims
• Open-air driving experience with removable top and doors
• Strong towing and payload capacities for its class
• Available diesel engine for improved torque and fuel efficiency
• Extensive customization options and Jeep's iconic styling

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2021 Jeep Gladiator Overview

Performance

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator offers two engine options:

3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine:

• 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque
• Standard across all trims
• Available with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission

3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine:

• 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque
• Available on Sport, Overland, and Rubicon trims
• Paired exclusively with eight-speed automatic transmission

Key performance features include:

• 2021 Jeep Gladiator towing capacity of up to 7,650 pounds (with the gas engine and Max Tow package)
• Payload capacity of up to 1,700 pounds
• Standard four-wheel drive across all trims
• Available full-time four-wheel drive system
• Heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles
• Available electronic sway-bar disconnect (Rubicon)

The Gladiator Rubicon has enhanced off-road features, including 33-inch all-terrain tires, electronic locking front and rear differentials, and a 4:1 low-range gear ratio. The Mojave trim, designed for high-speed desert running, features specially-tuned FOX shocks and a reinforced frame.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not evaluated the 2021 Jeep Gladiator.

Standard safety features on all 2021 Jeep Gladiator trims include:

• Advanced multistage front airbags
• Supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control
• Electronic roll mitigation
• Trailer sway control
• Hill start assist

Advanced driver assistance features, available on higher trims or as part of optional packages, include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Forward collision warning with active braking
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection
• Rear parking sensors
• Forward-facing TrailCam off-road camera (new for Overland trim)

Driving

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator offers a unique driving experience that blends the characteristics of a Wrangler with those of a midsize pickup truck. Its long wheelbase contributes to a smoother ride than the Wrangler, particularly on highways, while maintaining impressive off-road capabilities.

On-road, the Gladiator's steering is responsive, though some body roll is noticeable due to its high stance. The standard V6 engine provides adequate power for most driving situations, while the newly available EcoDiesel offers impressive torque, which is especially beneficial for towing and off-road scenarios.

Off-road is where the Gladiator excels, especially in Rubicon and Mojave trims. The Rubicon is well-equipped for challenging trails with its front and rear locking differentials, disconnecting front sway bar, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. The Mojave, tuned for high-speed desert running, features specially valved FOX shocks and a reinforced frame, allowing for more aggressive off-road driving.

The Gladiator's removable top and doors, a hallmark feature inherited from the Wrangler, offer an open-air driving experience unmatched in the pickup truck segment. However, this design does contribute to increased wind noise at highway speeds when the hardtop or soft top is in place.

Interior

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator's interior balances ruggedness and comfort, reflecting its dual nature as both an off-road vehicle and a daily driver. The design is reminiscent of the Wrangler, with a vertical dashboard and circular air vents, but with added refinements befitting its position in the Jeep lineup.

Key interior features include:

• Water-resistant removable carpet and drain plugs for easy cleaning
• Available heated front seats and heated steering wheel
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel standard on all but base Sport trim
• 60/40 folding rear bench seat with under-seat storage
• Available leather-trimmed upholstery

The Gladiator's cab is surprisingly spacious, with ample headroom thanks to its boxy design. Rear seat space is generous for a midsize truck, with good legroom and a comfortable seating position. The rear seats can also fold up to reveal additional storage space.

Cargo versatility is a Gladiator's strong point. In addition to its 5-foot truck bed, it offers various in-cab storage solutions, including a locking bin under the rear seat. The truck bed features a three-position tailgate and is available with a spray-in bedliner and a 115-volt power outlet.

Technology

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator comes equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and off-road capability:

• Uconnect infotainment system with a 5-inch display (standard on Sport)
• Available 7-inch or 8.4-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 4 system
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
• Optional Alpine premium audio system
• Off-road pages (on Rubicon and Mojave) displaying vehicle stats and off-road data

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator's fuel economy varies depending on the engine and transmission combination. According to the EPA, the Gladiator achieves the following fuel economy estimates:

3.6-liter V6 with manual transmission:

• 4WD/Manual (mpg): 16 city / 23 highway / 19 combined
• 4WD/Automatic (mpg): 17 city / 22 highway / 19 combined

3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6:

• 4WD/Automatic (mpg): 22 city / 28 highway / 24 combined

2021 Jeep Gladiator Reviews

2021 Jeep Gladiator consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are very positive, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5. The Gladiator also gets high scores from owners for its quality, reliability, performance, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• The unique combination of Wrangler-like features with pickup truck utility
• Impressive off-road capabilities, especially in Rubicon and Mojave trims
• Open-air driving experience with removable top and doors
• Strong towing and payload capacities for its class
• Available diesel engine for improved torque and fuel efficiency
• Extensive customization options
• Spacious cabin with good rear-seat room for a midsize truck
• Distinctive styling that stands out from other pickup trucks

Problems

• Higher starting price compared to other midsize trucks
• Fuel economy is below average for the class (except for the diesel variant)
• The ride can be bumpy, especially with off-road-oriented trims
• Wind noise is noticeable at highway speeds
• Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims

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CoPilot's Take

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator continues to occupy a unique niche in the midsize truck market, offering a compelling blend of off-road capability, open-air driving experience, and pickup truck utility. Its Wrangler-based design and robust four-wheel-drive system make it a standout choice for off-road enthusiasts, while its truck bed adds practical versatility for both work and play.

The introduction of the EcoDiesel engine for 2021 broadens the Gladiator's appeal, offering improved fuel efficiency and impressive torque for towing and off-road use. The new Willys and 80th Anniversary Edition trims provide more options for buyers to find a Gladiator that suits their style and needs.

However, potential buyers should be aware of a few considerations. The Gladiator's starting price is higher than many competing midsize trucks, and it can climb quickly with options and higher trims. Its on-road manners, while improved over the Wrangler due to its longer wheelbase, may not match the refinement of more street-oriented trucks.

Fuel economy, particularly with the gas V6, is below average for the class, though the new diesel option improves this significantly. The open-air design, while a unique selling point, does contribute to increased wind noise at highway speeds.

2021 Jeep Gladiator FAQs

Do Jeep Gladiators hold their value?

Jeep Gladiators have shown strong value retention since their introduction. While it's still relatively early in the model's lifespan, initial data suggests that Gladiators hold their value better than the average vehicle. Factors contributing to this include:

• Jeep's strong brand reputation, particularly for off-road vehicles
• The Gladiator's unique position as the only convertible pickup truck on the market
• Limited competition in the off-road-focused midsize truck segment

However, resale values vary based on mileage, condition, location, and specific trims. As with any vehicle, regular maintenance and care can help maintain its value over time.

How much is a 2021 Jeep Gladiator?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2021 Jeep Gladiator costs $24,000 to $56,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and marketplace conditions.

Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator being discontinued?

No, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is not being discontinued. Jeep has continued to expand the Gladiator lineup since its introduction, adding new trims and features. The Gladiator represents an essential part of Jeep's product range, offering a unique combination of Wrangler-like features with pickup truck utility.

Does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator have steering issues?

According to NHTSA records, the 2021 Gladiator has a history of steering-related problems, accounting for about one-third of complaints submitted to the agency. Some owners have reported a phenomenon known as "death wobble," which can occur in solid front axle vehicles when hitting a bump or irregularity at highway speeds. However, this is not unique to the Gladiator and can affect other vehicles with similar suspension designs, including the Wrangler.

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