One Year with the Jeep Gladiator | In Depth Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.ค. 2024
- #jeepgladiator #gladiator #jeep
I replaced my Gladiator with a Ram Rebel! : • 18 Months with the Ram...
I bought my 2021 Jeep Gladiator one year ago and it's time for a full review. This comes from an actual owner, I have zero affiliation with Jeep. Why did I choose a Gladiator over the competition? Does it live up to the promise of combining the off-road ability of the Jeep Wrangler with the utility and towing ability of a pickup truck? THIS is an honest OWNER review of the Jeep Gladiator.
00:00 Intro
02:24 Why I Bought it
05:49 Why a Rubicon
08:21 Gas vs Diesel
09:17 Exterior
13:16 Interior
18:07 Practicality/MPG/Size
21:06 Off Road
25:26 Highway
27:03 Towing
28:50 Loves
31:08 Hates
32:52 Conclusion
I chose the Gladiator instead of it's competition: Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, Jeep Wrangler, Toyota 4Runner, Ford F-150, Toyota Tundra, RAM 1500, Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Nissan Titan, Ford Bronco, Chevy Colorado, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline.
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⚡I replaced my Gladiator with a Ram Rebel! Here is my review of the Ram: th-cam.com/video/KR8s65bw32w/w-d-xo.html
⚡Would you buy a Gladiator? Why or why not?
Never..., I've had Jeeps in my past. They were just adequate then. Better options now obviously, but $50k+ is not worth it to me. I prefer Japanese designed trucks.
I would…and did. The exact same blue gladiator rubicon. I wouldn’t buy anything else. It will go anywhere, and bring you back.
I think these are the choices I have. The gladiator, a raptor , a tremor, a power wagon, and the AEV equipped ram 2500. No way I would buy a car now everything is over priced. I am leaning more to the tremor and AEV Ram because I want the towing capacity. It’s going to be a difficult decision to make I don’t know when I’ll make it happen. I agree with you on the front and rear locker and solid axles.
I bought one in July of 2020. I love it.
I have a sting gray rubicon and love it. But I have had one major issue and its actually still being worked on as I write this. The hood, driver door, and windshield frame had to be replaced and painted. They are aluminum and magnesium and were not treated properly prior to factory paint. It caused corrosion under the paint and looks like rust bubbling through. I didn't see it till about a year into ownership. Definitely keep an eye out for it. Unfortunately it makes me paranoid that it may be in other unseen spots. I typically keep vehicles for about 10 yrs and it has me rethinking it with this one. A shame as I really love the truck.
Extremely thorough video. Thank you. I was on the fence between this and a full size Ram (I know they’re completely different) but after watching this I’m sold on the Gladiator. Jeep owes you money for this quality of content. Thanks!
thanks for the comment
I've had 2 Rams. Don't really need a full size truck now so thinking about getting a Gladiator next.
Get the Ram
@@tao265 Rams are garbage now
I had a Jeep Wrangler 2022 EcoDiesel and sold it when covid hit and got more than I paid for it. I also had a 3.6L Wrangler, which I traded for a Gladiator Mojave 3.6L (for the tow capacity but should have got the Diesel). The Mojave was awesome in style, not function. Heck the thing bottomed out in my driveway?, small bumps clunk clunk. I didn't like the power, although it had the 4.10 gear. My gas Wrangler was a Willys with 3.45 gears, it had 255/75r17 tires and the power felt just right for an SUV. The tires which measured the same height as the Mojave 33" @ 32" tall, but had the same or less power as the Wrangler. So I thought the gears would really help, it didn't feel much different. I drove the Mojave for 5 days, then I exchanged it for a Ram. Super happy with the Ram, so I kept it. Better gas mileage with the 5.7 eTorque, more (way more) room and comfort up front (the console is mind blowing), and so very quiet, fold the back seat up and the flat floor has a ton of room too, you also get higher towing. But...... I did like the coolness of the Gladiator, lets face it, almost everyone has a full-size truck, lifted and cool wheels. Ultimately the Gladiator is just not as good for everyday use in the real world. I can take the Ram off road, it is 4x4 and handles well, the suspension is awesome, thump thump over R/R crossings, can barely feel it. I am just not into trashing a 60K vehicle on big rocks. Would I buy a Gladiator as a second vehicle, YOU BET I WOULD, it would be fun to lift it and stab a 6.4 in it. Only if a bag of cash landed on my porch. I think that would be awesome. So, when my 2023 Ram is paid off, the new 2024 style Jeeps will be out and hopefully with the bigger gas engine they think will be in it, I'll take a look at it for a second truck or maybe a used one and totally change it (just empty every pocket). If I can only have one, I will pick the Ram. A very smooth, quiet, good looking well appointed truck..... my two cents. Super nice video, thanks for posting it. FYI, I have had 4 Jeeps Wranglers over the years they are fun, and about 6 Ram trucks, from 1ton, 3/4ton, Diesel and gas engine, and 1/2 ton Rams as well, just for reference (I have experience with both). One las thing, I have the 33gal fuel tank option on the Ram, so I can go twice as far as the Jeep on a tank of fuel. It is so annoying having to get fuel so often. The Wrangler got 18.5mpg highway and the Gladiator got 17mpg. The Ram gets just a hair under 21mpg highway and about 18 combined.
I have 12 hours of ownership on my 2022 Gladiator Rubicon, coming from a ram 2500 I feel like a canned tuna, but cost of ownership was the big factor that took me away from my Ram, I’ll get used to my smaller truck over time, but this video was exactly what I needed to see today, thanks
Same. I went from Ford F350 to a gladiator, and I was shoked how small it is inside, but I already got used to it after 3 weeks of driving my gladiator. :)
I am in the same boat. No need for my Ram 2500 anymore. I think I will switch over
I've had 4 F-150's over the last 25 years. My last one we purchased used was a 2013 Limited. It was absolutely gorgeous and from Massachusetts to Buffalo twice per year it was so comfortable. They all were. I got a 2022 Gladiator Overland and very quickly regretted it. Feeling like a canned tuna is spot on Roger. However, We took it wheeling once so far and it's so very capable. I'm used to the size now and yes It's comfortable enough for me. I absolutely love it. Took some time but I'm glad I kept it. Might go into a Rubicon next.
Hey fellas, Mind if I pull up a chair? I too just traded my ram2500 for a 2023 gladiator rubicon. I honestly wasn't looking for a trade and wouldn't have IF that pesky 68rfe hadn't taken a shit. This is my 2nd rubicon so it wasn't too much of a shocker. I'm cool with it. Lol
So how yall liking your truck/jeep:)?
Thank you so much for your throughout review! I’ve been searching for all Gladiator reviews and you’re the best one. It answered all my concerns and what you think about it is exactly how I think. You’re very honest and you have answered too all questions that most people have before they make that huge purchase. Thank you again. You’re the best!!!
I've been a Gladiator driver for 6 months but did not know about my vehicle much until I watched your video. Lots of information unlike other similar videos. Thank you so much! I'm loving my vehicle more now ✌️
This is the best, most comprehensive review on the Gladiator. I am going to order one. I have always wanted a Wrangler and a truck as well, and this is both. Also, the S level trim is an exceptional value. You can add max towing for a couple of grand and have an extremely capable and versatile vehicle. Not to mention it is freakin' cool looking!
Excellent review, agree completely after 1 year with mine. Thanks for a good in- depth and honest opinion.
Thank you!
I'm not quite 10 minutes into your review. This is by far, one of the best reviews I've ever seen. I used to sell cars and listening to your honest ownership review is refreshing. Extremely well done. 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
Great walkthrough on the pros and cons of owning a gladiator. Thinking of getting one myself and this helped a ton on the deciding process. Thanks!
good to know!
Thanks for this review. Love your straight no bells and whistles approach to explaining your experience. Comes across very authentic .
thanks
Thank you so much for the spot on review. I love my 2021 Overland model, many of the same positive and negatives that you stated. No other midsized truck could match it, particularly the rear seat room and best of all, it's a Jeep.
Right on!
One of the best in depth reviews I’ve seen yet! Nice work!
Thank you for the effort put in to making this video! The best review I've seen for a long time.
it's an amazing truck. I am a miner and where I live here in Peru I have tested it through exploration work in the most terrible places and I have been able to succeed. I congratulate you for the description.
This is a super well done, honest and professional review. Thanks for the great info. I bought a 2020 Wrangler JL (Willys edition) and love it. But I strongly considered the Gladiator, but was not confident enough that I would like it as much. This video would have definitely swayed me to the truck. Very well done!!
Thanks for watching!
Best detailed vehicle review ever! Excellent detail and real world experience is what I needed! Thank you!
I have been looking for this kind deep thorough review about cars and trucks that I am interested in. Many thanks for sharing your experiences and opinions, it really helped me to decide what truck I need. Thanks again.
Great video as usual! I have a 21 Rubicon 2dr with the 3.6L E-torque and I absolutely love it. Best vehicle I’ve owned. You have a gift sir…keep up the great work! 👍🏻
thanks!
Been a full-size truck guy for years but I love the look of these trucks. Hard to make the jump to a smaller truck although it will likely do everything I need. Great review….
For off road narrow steep mountains exploring, where weather changes thus surprisingly slippery climb out, these mid-size trucks do better than full size pickups. On most easy roads, yeah, full sizes rock.
Absolute best video about the gladiator on TH-cam. I have searched many videos for this and I’m glad I found it.
Awesome review. Honest and strait to the point. Really appreciate you took the time to do this.
I love the versatility of the Gladiator. I have owned many jeeps and this is hands down my favorite. It has been through some horrible weather and many miles of trails. it has been absolutely perfect in all of it. 100% confidence when driving with it.
Which trim do you have?
@@dantimber Rubicon
I’ve been doing a lot of research. This video was the most informative yet.
good to hear!
After 17 years ownership of my '03 Dodge 2500 Quad Cab Turbo Diesel, I'm in the process of buying a 2020 Gladiator Sport w/ 3.6 V6. My test drive was 10 miles but enough for me to pull the trigger. I watched this video after committing, but it only solidified my decision. For all it's versatility and the "coolness factor" I'm stoked to take delivery of my first Jeep. Thanks for the review!
Great video! Thanks for sharing your experience and calling it as you see it. I bought a 2021 Gladiator Sport S max tow back in June 21. Also hydroblue...love it. I'm not a serious off-roader, but I've wanted a Jeep for years (69 y/o right now) and the versatility of the Gladiator made me pull the trigger. I went with the Sport S max tow specifically for the towing/payload capacity. In another couple months it will be towing an Airstream Basecamp 20X, so looking forward to seeing how it performs with that. Only mod I've done is add a color matched A.R.E. Classic cap. Eventually want to beef up the rear suspension, do a lift and AT tires, and install the dual battery kit from Genesis Offroad.
Awesome. I've also been looking at the Airstream Basecamp!
Mine was almost identical from the factory with the exception of the bed liner and Blue top. Mine is lifted 3.5" in front and 5.5" in the rear (due to weight) with 37" tires and a lot of additional gear. I will be posting my one year video soon but you are spot on with your review. I would not trade it for anything and it fits my lifestyle perfectly. Great video, keep up the good work!
Thanks for sharing
Did you make a review I'm about to buy one thanks
@@vanstewart3607 I did. you can check it out here: th-cam.com/video/ld9bX0Gnv5k/w-d-xo.html and I also did my initial walkaround here: th-cam.com/video/6dgI7HTizTg/w-d-xo.html I hope they are helpful!
Thinking about buying one and this video was very helpful. Thank you!
I bought a Gladiator Rubicon 2 months ago and everything you say hits home . I love the subtle customization you did
This is EXACTLY the sort of video I was looking for. There’s SOOOO much about a vehicle that you just CANT figure out in a few days or weeks. You have to live with it and be responsible for it, etc. to find all the little details that make you love it or drive you nuts over time.
When I first test drove a Jeep Gladiator, I was incredibly shocked at how massive and comfortable it felt on its interior and ever since then I have been looking into purchasing to own one for my own and this video has been extremely helpful in my decision to get a Jeep Gladiator. Have to say this: I am not a pick up truck fan and never will be but the Gladiator is the only exception to that rule. Yes, Jeep Gladiator is my new favorite dream vehicle.
Thanks for sharing!
I'm 6'6" and fit perfectly fine in my Gladiator. Doesn't feel crowded at all. I got the seat mount extenders but haven't installed them yet because, frankly, I'm fine with the room.
@@jt8251 The Jeep Gladiator is definitely something I will consider buying
That was a great video. Appreciate the in-depth look and sharing.
This is the first video I have watched of yours and I truly enjoyed it. Very in-depth
Without feeling to commercial. I appreciate the opinions you have shared in the video I have been
Weighing a gladiator vs other midsize and this is kind of a mind maker.
Wow, thank you!
Superb discussion on the Gladiator. As someone who is considering a purchase, your video and analysis have greatly helped me. Thank you for taking the time to make this. I have yet to come across anything this in-depth... and it answered many of my questions.
Great to hear!
LOVE my gladiator!! My first Jeep.
always love your reviews. Pragmatic, easy to understand. well researched. 1 point. and i thought the same as you, but, the reason the Diesel can't tow or haul as much isn't fully because the motor weighs 400lbs more...it can't cool down. That old school jeep grill they had to/wanted to keep..doesn't allow that Diesel to cool effectively. Even adding air intake up top doesn't solve it..makes it worse as those holes would rid the engine compartment of it's vacuum...engine would actually get less air. There's a lot of talk on the forums about that diesel cooling issue. Only way to really solve it is to get rid of the front of the jeep grill and open it up. Thanks man! love the content!
awesome, thanks for sharing this
Great, thorough review. Thanks for taking the time.
Bought my gladiator new in ‘19. Felt like one of the cool kids having one of the first ones produced. We use it on the farm, use it for travel, hauling whitewater kayaks, absolutely love it.
awesome!
Great video! I had a 2009 2 door JK for 5 years, then had a 2014 4 door JKU for 5 years, and now have had my 2021 JT for 3 months. The quality of the interior, the ride comfort, and the versatility of the Gladiator are light years beyond what I ever had in my Wranglers.
Thanks for sharing!
Really appreciate your review! Initially I definitely wasn’t a fan of the Glad, but that switched recently. You clarified a lot of things for me. Thank you so much!
☀️🤘🏼☀️
🥰🙏🏼
Great video - thank you for the in-depth review. I am considering the Gladiator and this was very helpful!
glad to hear
I'd buy a gladiator, but it needs the 5.7 for proper towing and that glorious rumble. Totally agree with your take on the looks, that was my issue with it too. Yours looks great, color included!
You do a better job of explaining "the Jeep thing" than most. I own a 17 Hard Rock JKU and love it. Yes, the JL/JT has a much nicer interior than my JK and the 8-speed automatic rocks, that said I have no plans to trade my JK for either a JL or JT.
I have a 2016 hard Rock Rubicon myself I love it. And I don't plan on ever getting rid of it. But I have a 2022 Mojave what a difference. I have a soft top on it so easy to pop open and I put a best top soft top on the back. I have a great Pyrenees so I don't like all the dog hair in the Rubicon now I put them in the back of the Mojave and when I'm done taking them for a ride I can take the leaf blower and blow it out. I love them both but driving to Mojave is fun. And a small truck does everything I need
Been looking at getting a Gladiator and this video really helped. Keep up the good work brother
Great job, enjoy how detailed and articulate your reviews are.
Glad you liked it!
If you don’t turn around and look at your ride as you’re walking away, you’re driving the wrong vehicle. Nice looking truck man.
Haha DAM STR8
I have been looking at all the Jeep Wrangler models, and I love the idea of the truck bed, but the real downside for me is the steep price. 60K is a huge amount of coin, especially for someone who wants to buy it outright without monthly payments. Good review!
I agree
Just got my 2023 Texas Trail Gladiator. Love it. Thanks for the review. Shared it with my loved ones
Duuude awesome video! We are finally getting the Jeep Gladiator here in South Africa this year. Having watched a ton of your Jeep videos, I'm sold. Getting the Gladiator when it lands here!
Love the review. I agree that the Rubicon package if worth the extra money.
Glad to see you showing this channel some love! I really enjoy your reviews.
I am 6'4" and I can't fit in Jeeps. I love them, and I'd buy one if they fixed that. The bar hits my head enough to drive me nuts. We rented a JL a couple of times and it was a dealbreaker. Seating position is not good, either. I have a '20 Honda Ridgeline now that has been great, but not exactly exciting. I'd love something as comfortable as my Ridgeline with more off-road chops. The new Tundra looks intriguing.
You got rid of the Lance? What did you replace it with? We are looking at small RV's now.
Thanks, and glad to see you creating content for this channel.
I'm 6'4 220 and I fit fine in a 2021 high altitude with the seat fully lowered, so far I am loving my first jeep my previous car was a 2010 challenger R/ T.
Outstanding review! Tons of details and very well-presented.
Thanks
Great review. This is what I needed before I pull the trigger on one. Thanks!!
Thanks for the honest review. I have the same issue with the rear end bobbing. I’ve changed springs and shocks, and a few combinations. I’ve tried removing weight and adding weight. Nothing resolves it. I personally feel it’s the multi rate springs. When you’re in the primary light rate zone and compress into the secondary high spring rate zone, it bucks and bounces. I’m considering the EvoMfg coilover kit and sliding the transition collar to keep the spring rate consistent throughout 90% of the travel.
translate this to English for those of us peasants please
Good video, thank you, really helps in decision making.
I used to love Jeep CJ's and Wranglers. I had a YJ Islander many years ago. Today's Jeeps are just ridiculously expensive for me to even consider
Best review! Thank you. (I was searching for 4xe and 392 reviews but could not resist watching this one too)
Love your Glad, color, tires... Everything! Perfect set up! And a great review. Thx
Thanks so much. A very good and honest review. Really puts things in perspective for me.
If you're not going to do any offroading and just love the look of the Gladiator is it still a good day-to-day vehicle? Consume Reports says that Wranger reliability is horrible. Do you think the Gladiator will be any different? I enjoy all your videos. No one is as thorough or as thoughtful as you are. Every second of every video adds value. All meat, no filler. Thank you!
Thanks. If I wasn't doing offroading, I would not buy a Jeep due to all the compromises. Mine had been reliable but I can't speak to that for others.
dont forget this things competitiion at the 50k price point your in Ford Raptor price tags , you can buy a 150 4x4 and dump some cash into it have a much more caipitable towing Trucking stuff Room for family and off road just as good and look better this thing is not sexy
Great video. It’s a beautiful truck and very enticing. I’ve considered these factors and for my budget snd interests, I’m leaning towards the F-150 for daily use and a T7 for difficult trails. Rock crawling is just too boring for me and there are easy alternative routes to remote locations. I like good exercise in the outdoors like mountain biking or kayaking instead of riding an engine the whole time.
Right on!
You've helped me make my decision, and I'm on board. Thanks for the video.
I had a 2013 JKU. The 3.6 came out in 2012 and has been a good motor through the years and to the best of my knowledge remains unchanged. When I went to 37" tires I changed the gears to 5.38 and LOVED IT. I've been debating on getting a Gladiator but I think I'm going with a super duty Tremor for a few reasons. Great video and well thought through
I have pretty much the exact same truck in Granite Crystal ..... love it. I totally agree with your review. I don't need a Demon engine but it would be perfect truck with the 5.7 hemi. If you don't like the the Pentastar v6 try driving the 3rd gen Tacoma their 3.5 you have to ring it to the moon to get power out of it especially with 6 speed auto.
Yeah I've heard that Tacoma is worse
Nice video on the Gladiator. I've been enjoying my Rubicon Gladiator for 14 months. The only problem is I have a hard time splitting riding with friends versus going off road with friends. Two wheels usually win. It really is amazing the capability of this vehicle off-road and what it just rolls over like it's no issue.
I will say, here in the SouthEast, you are going to have a pinstriped paint job if you do much off-roading. Too much growth in the forest to avoid it. Once you decide you're okay with that, you'll have fun.
mine has pinstripes for sure
I'm about to purchase my own Jeep Rubicon, and this video nailed everything I needed to know. Thanks.
I like every mod you did to it, we have very similar tastes. Its a sweet looking JT! I own a black 80th anniversary sport Gladiator and I want that front bumper/winch you have! Thanks for the informative review.
Wow! What an absolutely fantastic review! Great work. I felt like I was listening to myself talk about the vehicle as you touched on all of my likes and dislikes with the Gladiator. I had a 2021 Gladiator Sport S earlier this year. Added larger tires, tonneau cover, Bedrug bedmat, gas hood struts, rock sliders, etc., etc. Got it exactly how I wanted it. Problem was the steering. It was so bad and I wandered around on the highway so badly that it ruined the jeep experience for me. It was terrible. I had the dealer replace the steering damper and the steering box, no improvement. Hated the steering issue so badly I sold the Gladiator. Bought a Chevrolet Silverado Custom Trail Boss. That had no steering wheel audio controls, no heated steering wheel and no heated seats (the Gladiator spoiled me for those items-never knew how much I needed a heated steering wheel until I had it and then gave it up). Sold the '21 Silverado and bought a '21 Colorado Z71. Now I have an itch to get another Gladiator. And after watching your review I remembered how much I loved all of the things about the Gladiator ( and my '17 Wrangler) that I now miss. I had a '15 Colorado that I traded in on a '17 jeep that I traded in on a '18 Colorado that I traded in on the '21 Gladiator, sold and bought the '21 Silverado that I sold and bought the '21 Colorado...that I will now trade in on a new Gladiator. Call me crazy, my wife does. Your comments on the seat and how it doesn't go back far enough is spot on. I'm 6'1" with long legs and it really doesn't go back far enough. I solved that problem with a Misch 4x4 Big Boy seat bracket installation. Great product. That solved the lack of leg room. I also added in some front hood gas struts which are fantastic. Like you, when I first saw the new Gladiator I didn't like the look of it. Something was off, out of balance. I've never seen how much wheels and tires change the look of a vehicle until I saw them upgraded on a Gladiator. Totally changes the look of the truck. Off to the dealer to test drive another Gladiator, hope I can find one with decent steering. Thanks again for the wonderful review.
wow, my wife should read this, she will think I am less crazy. haha
@@BigRockOutdoors1 Bought another Gladiator last month, Snazzberry Pearl. Added all of the goodies to it, love it. Steering still sucks. I have a Steer Smarts sector shaft brace on order should be in shortly. I hope that tightens up the steering wheel and eliminates most of the wandering. Take car.
@@bobbyfanman1734 Did it help?
The only option I wish was available, especially on the Mojave, was a choice to pick the 5.7L V8 instead of only offering the V6. Either way, I hope to be getting a Mojave in the next couple of years.
As far as seat comfort, to me, having seats that aren't overly comfortable can help decrease the chance of dosing off while driving. Don't need to be totally uncomfortable, but at the same time not overly comfortable.
5.7 would be amazing
I'm with you on that bro, I'd buy a 5.7 version, prefer 6.1
Great video! Picking my 22 Rubicon up tomorrow!! Woohoo!
Very thorough review! As a 2nd time Gladiator owner, I agree so much with you. There really is no other vehicle even close to what the Gladiator is.
You forgot to mention how great that ZF 8 speed is. Almost is always in the right gear at the right time. Much better than any other in the mid-size pickup class.
Also the fact that they still give you the option of a 6-speed manual is amazing!
Yes, the 8-speed is amazing!
Good points!
yes the 8 speed ZF that comes with the Diesel is excellent
Mine has issues. Seems to always be searching for the right gear, but dealer won’t admit it has issues. 3rd gear at 5mph is not correct. Then when coming to a stop it lunges forward as it downshifts.
@@onebridge7231 Is yours the E-torque? Do you have mods like gears or oversized tires. Did you recalibrate the computer?
Great review! I actually traded in my Max Tow and looked at all the other trucks before I decided to get a Mojave, and I love it. One TSB you might consider is the steering gear change. I did it in my Max Tow and it’s now standard. Also, I love the pedal commander. Last thing, Amazon sells a kind of plastic saddle cubby that goes on either side of center/shifter area. Wife uses it for her phone and stuff and I use it for pedal commander and sometimes something else.
thanks
....something else? lol
Got the pedal commander on my suburban and it’s 100% worth it
Great video, enjoyed it!
Good video appreciated the deep dive you took. Definitely considering purchasing a gladiator
Thanks for watching!
I just picked up an EcoDiesel Gladiator a couple of months ago. I’ve been super happy with it so far. I’m not sure if they have it in Canada, but some truck stops in the States have DEF at the pump.
Re: the overheating, did you get the towing package? Curious if Jeep’s “heavy duty cooling” would help solve your overheating issue.
I have the 6k lb tow package on my Gladiator Overland and while not in the danger zone, it gets hot when towing my 5500 lb boat over very modest FL grades on local trips at highway speeds. I've learned reducing my speed to 50/55 mph helps a lot. Something I can live with a few times a year to have the other positive jeep features he mentions.
I absolutely love the Wrangler, especially the most recent models, and I love the Gladiator.
What I still don’t understand is why they cost so much. Is it just they steal you money or do this kind of cars really worth how they’re built?
It's the truck bed . Adds insane amount of new capabilities. But also. They know ppl will pay
It's a simple matter of supply and demand. Prices would come down if fewer people bought them.
@@darylnd People just do not understand that. The people control the pricing. All we have to do is refuse to pay what they want. As soon as we do that they sell it cheaper or don't sell it. This goes for anything from this to milk.
@@darylnd That isn't really true, the Galdiator doesn't sell particularly well, less than 100,000 units a year. There is even talk of it being discontinued because sales are disappointing.
@@AM-ju9wx People need to stop drinking milk, humans are the only species that drink another species dead body fluid (pasteurized kills everything) oh yeah Im going in to buy a gladiator today, only hold up is they dont have cloth seats for the gladiator ecodiesel rubicon... gonna get it and trade with someone
Excellent analysis. Very helpful. Thank you.
Great video full of practical information for someone considering purchasing a Jeep Gladiator!
I loved the look of the Gladiator but I don’t off-road so I couldn’t justify the poor ride and noise, I went with a 2021 Ridgeline and I’m happy. It isn’t as cool no doubt but the ride is amazing. My prior cars were a 2015 wrangler 2-door and a 2017 4Runner.
ridgeline, amazing vehicle. good choice
Then you're missing out as you're basing your conclusion on a false premise: It doesn't HAVE any "poor ride and noise."
Please update your records to get current... ;-)
-- BR
Riding with Russo....Your "Ridgline" is basically an SUV with a larger trunk, so it should ride very well!
Get sumo spring to help with suspension easy to install and no maintenance
Seeing you're setup has changed my mind from buying Unlimited Rubicon to the Gladiator and I love the Hydro-Blue ,, that rocks !
Your video has helped me decide on a Gladiator. I have a wrangler right now, but like you I live in the mountains and need a truck bed. I appreciate you
You can buy a fox steering stabilizer from the dealership that makes a bug difference while driving high and low speeds. Also consider rear end gearing swaps. They can change the tourqe curve to get more low end power out of your truck. This is a trade off however because you will lose top end power but really you probably aren't driving at 100mph anyway so are you really losing anything.
Great review, great job. Im looking at buying a Gladiator but unsure about engine choices, 392 would be nice but out of my price league (if it ever happens). Can you tell me what the rim width and offset is please. The stance is perfect. Cheers
Have you test driven?
I have seen the v6 get a lot of shit online but when I drove the truck, I thought it performed great. More than enough power for daily driving or off road stuff.
Only way I could consider the diesel, given reliability concerns, is if I was towing weekly or something
@@xWoodenLeafx I have driven it just last weekend and although the V6 is ok, its a little underwhelming . I personally hate diesels and its not an option in this part of the world anyway. I decided its just not for me, just too many other shortcomings. Ive owned an SRT in the past, I couldnt live with its shortcomings either, guess Im not a Jeep guy.
@@xWoodenLeafx problem with the V6 is that it’s so old and underpowered. The diesel fixes that, but costs more and adds more expensive maintenance. Stellantis needs to beef up the V6 with a turbo to keep up with the Bronco and whatever Toyota is coming with next.
@@Clockwork0nions that engine is coming perhaps as soon as the fall of 22? Fingers crossed.
I’m a long time subscriber to Big Rock Moto, so was glad to find this credible review on a vehicle I’m shopping for right now.
Looking to get one for the weekends, thanks for making this video.
Great review! I did opt for the eco diesel and love it. What rims and tires did you go with? And size?
method MR703 17 inch, 35 inch cooper stt pro tires, +25 offset
Are you still liking the diesel??
@@rdspice2 absolutely!
@@jimmierpadgettjr good to hear! I’ve been on the fence. I’m in TN so would probably end up deleting it so I’m not too worried about the emissions BS. How many miles do you have on yours?
@@jimmierpadgettjr I actually worked at a CDJR dealership and I fell in love with the gladiator but had to get my wife through nursing school first. Now I got myself a sugar momma
Excelent, excelent review!! the most complete review of the gladiator!! congratulations!
Glad you liked it!
Thank you so much for a very nice balanced, unbiased review!
Glad you enjoyed it!
So I guess you found out you can’t have both, a great off-road vehicle, and a great tow vehicle in one package.
That’s why I have two.
As far as bottoming out in the rear,
do you you think all the stuff you added in the back has anything to do with it?
They spring these Jeeps soft so it has the articulation that you like.
Goes to show you how differently 2 people can see the very same vehicle. ;-)
I disagree with his "not comfortable" finding: My Gladiator (2021 Rubicon, and also in "Hydro Blue Pearlcoat" as his is) is excellent on the hwy -- smooth-riding (longer wheel-base HELPS on the hwy, if not on the trail!) and quite comfortable seats.
On a recent trip from CO to TX and back, it was VERY nice, I'd even say more so than my previous vehicle -- itself a very-highly-rated "road-trip" vehicle -- a 2016 Honda Pilot EX-L AWD. And when I got out of the vehicle after hours of driving, I was LESS "stiff & achy" (I'm in my 70s so I know "stiff & achy"!) than I was doing the same driving times in the Pilot. Not saying the Pilot was bad -- it was a very comfortable road-trip vehicle -- just saying I felt LESS stiff in the Jeep...no discomfort even after sitting in the seats for hours.
As for my Subaru (2014 Crosstrek XV), I was uncomfortable in the seats after only 1-2 hours on a road-trip...the WORST seats I've ever had in a vehicle.
But I digress...
Nor is my Gladiator "loud" whether it's wind noise (I have the Freedom Panels hard-top roof) or tire noise (OEM 33" Falken Wildpeak A/T3W)...I don't even notice either.
Nor any "wandering/sloppy" steering -- it's fine (was addressed as of the 2021 model Wrangles and Gladiators).
As for looks, to me that's a trivial pursuit: The only time *I* care about "looks" is when it comes to women (but even then "looks" is only secondary!) -- it doesn't apply to material things (like vehicles) as THEY are mainly evaluated based on performance/capability (quality, durability, reliability as well), not the silly/shallow "looks" factor. Or the other equally irrelevant "feature" -- how the engine sounds. Couldn't care less. And what's "cool" doesn't help me on the road or trail, either.
"Looks" & "sounds" don't do jack for you in the real world be it on the hwy or on the trail -- how it handles/performs DOES.
I needed a serious/4x4/off-road-focused MID-size vehicle, not FULL-size...meaning a naturally-aspirated V6 gas engine class/segment -- no diesel or turbo engine, OR a V8. Further, it had to be a vehicle that could TOW a decent amount. Mid-size SUVs -- such as the Wrangler & Bronco, as serious as THEY certainly are off-road-wise -- were out as they can't tow much (3500lbs was anemic). That left only mid-size TRUCKS. Given that I was never able to get a 2021 Chevy Colorado ZR2 (back in April 2021, due to GM's chip-shortage issue), the ONLY other serious mid-size truck choice was a Jeep Gladiator, and for me, the ONLY Gladiators of interest were the 2 top-dog trims (top in performance/capability): The Rubicon and Mojave. The more expensive but way less capable High Altitude Gladiator trim was of zero interest. As I'm living in Colorado, the Rubicon was the appropriate choice. Were I still be living in West TX though, I may have gone with the Mojave.
And as it was going to be my Daily Driver, it had to do "everything" I needed it to do, plus long road-trips and occasional off-road/camping-trip ventures, not to mention getting me through/home during a serious whiteout/snowstorms we sometimes have here in CO -- can't think of a BETTER vehicle to be driving during such "inclement weather."
My Gladiator Rubicon does all that.
My ONLY complaint is it's mediocre MPG numbers, but as with all off-road-focused/4x4 vehicles, that's to be expected, and is tolerable since THAT negative is worth all positives I get from the vehicle.
So for me, no complaints here...or regrets. ;-)
-- BR
What about the diesel
It this or a Tacoma for me. I'm leaning gladiator. I'm just worried about reliability.
I was too…I went with the Rubicon. I have about 15K miles so far. The Jeep just blows the Tacoma away in every way. Jeep’s build quality is really good these days!
Jeep is probably the least reliable car brand in Australia
@@Mothaibayo87 Well it is a dedicated off-road vehicle that people beat the living hell out of. So it will have some issues that other car manufacturers won’t.
Jeep. my two cents
Amazing video sir! Very informative thank you. Beautiful looking rig you got.
Absolutely love my gladiator. Bought a 2023 in Jan. Freedom addition or Oscar Mike addition. It doesn’t have as many bells and whistle as a rubicon but most of them. Steel bumper, 4.10 gears, premium sound system plus a few other things. Started modding day one. Love this little truck.
Awesome video, thanks for posting, in the market and strongly considering one
Thanks for sharing. You seemed very genuine. I am looking at buying a Gladiator Rubicon and found this helpful. Nice job!
Best review.
I’ve been dreaming of owning a Jeep Wrangler for years. Then a few days ago I saw the gladiator at a car dealer here in Germany where I live. Now all I want is a gladiator. Your review was very helpful and the day I can afford one I’m going with the gladiator.
I really appreciated what you said about the basic model we see in the dealerships. That’s exactly how I felt. I was like how cool is this baby….but something was just off about it.
Thanks for the great review.
Great job on this video !!
Great, very informative video…thank you
The review was excellent.
Thank you, and the truck looks Great
Half way through the video and I can say from a guy who went from a TJ to a JK to now a Gladiator.. I agree with everything you’ve touched on. Great video.
Great review. Thanks for the transparency.
Great review. I can't wait to get into one.