Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Gladiator - Differences and Comparisons
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- čas přidán 9. 04. 2019
- The long-awaited arrival of the 2020 Jeep Gladiator begs an obvious question: How does it differ from the Jeep Wrangler we already know? We happen to have a four-door 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon in our long-term test fleet, which we were able to test against the 2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon we recently got our hands on. They matched up so exactly - right down to the color - that we were instantly able to pick out and explain their differences.
The Gladiator is indeed a Jeep pickup truck, but it's much more than just a Jeep Wrangler with the back cut off and a pickup truck bed welded on. This side-by-side Jeep comparison does indeed show that the two are virtually identical from the rear doors forward. But the frame beneath the Gladiator is both longer and stronger, and its rear suspension is similar to the link-coil suspension found in a Ram 1500 pickup.
Perched above is a legitimate 5-foot truck bed that's as capable as any other midsize pickup, and our Gladiator Rubicon can tow 7,000 pounds - double what a Wrangler Rubicon can tow. Yes, the Gladiator's longer wheelbase worsens its breakover and departure angles compared to a Wrangler Unlimited. But the Rubicon running gear they both share still gives the Jeep truck impressive off-road abilities compared to competing off-road pickups. So, yeah, a Wrangler is better off-road, but the practical difference isn't as big as you'd think. It could be just the thing if you're one of those people who've always wanted a Wrangler but never went through with it because you needed a truck.
About the 2018 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler needs no introduction, as this iconic vehicle is the very heart and soul of the Jeep brand. The 2018 Jeep Wrangler represents a complete redesign, and it is by far the best example Jeep has ever made. The impressive 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 returns, and there's a new optional 2.0-liter turbocharged mild hybrid four-cylinder that offers better mpg, more torque and better overall performance at high altitude. A six-speed manual with a revised shift mechanism is standard, and a new eight-speed automatic that we like quite a bit replaces the last model's unloved five-speed automatic.
As before, the chassis is a traditional ladder frame with solid front axles and coil springs at each end. This year the safety cage is more smoothly integrated into the body, improving the function of the removable doors and folding windshield. But the improved interior represents perhaps the most striking difference, with its higher grade of materials, upgraded switchgear, and high degree of infotainment technology. As before, the Wrangler is available in Sport, Sport S, Sahara and the off-road optimized Rubicon, and you have your choice of two doors or four.
Read our Jeep Wrangler review: www.edmunds.com/jeep/wrangler...
Watch our Jeep Wrangler video review: • 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rev...
About the 2020 Jeep Gladiator
The new Gladiator may just be the perfect vehicle for those who want a Jeep but need a truck. It benefits from the Wrangler's well-sorted V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission combination, and it has the same impressive-to-look-at and easy-to-use interior as the newest Wrangler. And its pickup credentials are real: The Sport S can tow 7,650 pounds and has a 1,600-pound payload, but even the Rubicon can tow 7,000 pounds.
Yes, the driving experience does suffer a bit from the very Jeepy solid front axle, but a smooth-riding coil-spring rear suspension offsets that. And it's true that the Gladiator's wheelbase is a bit long compared to other crew-cab pickups. That's a mixed bag because it smooths out the ride and tracks it straighter on the road, but it also reduces breakover clearance and makes it more likely to drag its belly off-road. This aspect is meaningful if you compare it to a Wrangler, but it's less significant when compared to other midsize trucks.
Read our Jeep Gladiator review: www.edmunds.com/jeep/gladiato...
Watch our 2020 Jeep Gladiator video: • 2020 Jeep Gladiator: T...
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The Jeep Gladiator really has my attention now. Great video.
This is great thank you so much. I really appreciate this video and your effort!
Excellent review, thank you 🙏 !
I find it fascinating Reviewers never seem to think about the drivers seat can be raised 2.5 inches to allow much better off-road terrain views over the hood.
Subbed. Really enjoyed the video.
Great video
The pickup reminds me a lot of the old fj45's . Kinda like it
Why would anyone leave the stabilizer bar connected when off-roading?
Finally a video where someone actually know about Jeeps! Bravo.
Do check out my off-road review of the Rubicon, then. 😃
Una pregunta hace tiempo vi el programa de top gear con taner foust y salio una jeep pero esa se llama brute la cuestion es la brute es la misma que la gladiator?? Agradecere si resuelven mi duda
Thanks for this
I hated when he went over the pipes ..the slowness kills me
can i use the targa top from a wrangler and put on a gladiator? same with head lights and hood?
Great visual comparison. I own a 2 door Jeep now. Only been off roading a few times. It did amazing but I see why guys lift them a little. Clearance is a big factor from what I experienced. I love this truck but did notice the extra length may bottom out faster than a regular Jeep. For a truck it seems to be very capable for basic off roading. At my level this truck is a dream come true. I am curious what hard core off roading Jeepers think about it. Take care all. Rob.
“Very capable for basic off roading” you think the rubicon trail is basic? 🤦🏻♂️ I’d rather take a Gladiator up hell’s gate in Moab than a 2 door that will be less stable. Go watch, the story till now CZcams channel and tell me 99% of 2 door wranglers could keep up.
@@KTMcaptain Hi there. That's good to hear. I've been able to go off roading in my Launch Edition Rubicon Gladiator. I gave my retired dad my 2 door so that's been fun to go together. I'm very impressed with my Gladiator. It does drag in the middle some on steep short hills. His does a little better than mine on that. Mine is badass in every other way and I'm so glad I broke down and got one. I'll check out your video. Thanks for observations. Rob.
I have one question ❔
Is the engine of gladiator is same as Wrangler engine? I mean that if gladiator engine get bad , can I replace it with Wrangler engine?
Also what about other engine accessory can I use Wrangler parts?
The skid plates are there for the grinding.... Good video!
So when you talk about the suspension that means they are not in in changeable,I have a 2018 jeep Sahara 2.0 turbo and I bought some gladiator wheels the wheels fit but will the gladiator suspension kit fit on my jeep looking at your videos sounds like they won’t fit is that correct
Спасибо! Thanks!
Tires tires tires plus Spacers spacers spacers plus Lift lift lift . Well done.
Had a question, How does the Gladiator have more towing capacity than the wrangler if they have the same engine? Does that have anything to do with the suspension and the chassis or just that the engines are tuned differently?
Stronger frame
If ya add like a bed cap cover like than it would be a sunburn type
Are there shells for the gladiator trunk yet?
No one replied to you sorry men
Dude there are many of them out there
It doesn’t have a trunk, it has a bed
They need the two door wrangler pickup
marcducati buy an angle grinder, plasma cutter and a welder
marcducati
Yes with the Diesel! I’ll buy 2! Sorry kids, no college money for you! Daddy needs this!
Would it have a longer bed, or just be a really short truck. I don't really see a market, but I could be wrong...
That would be a scrambler
@@Bhaidostyaar and it would be cool and not difficult to make. And let’s be crazy and put a hemi in it.
When can Jeep upgrade towing capacity of unlimited?
Really, all you need to do is put airbags in the back somehow
When they upgrade the frame, the engine cooling, and suspension. The gladiator has a heavier duty all of the above.
Daniel, the front grill is different, pretty sure Jeep has made that clear since the model unveiling.
Just realized that’s the off-road park in ocotillo wells
A lot of us truck owners want a 2dr Gladiator. 4dr's are fine for the grocery getters, but plenty of us want a truck, without the limo length.
Less than 10% of wranglers sold are 2dr
I’d guess less than 8% of buyers want a 2door Gladiator
How many 2 door trucks do you see on the road today? There is your answer...
Brian Lampright The vast majority of trucks are pavement pounding grocery getters. So of course they are four doors. There are people that want a Jeep truck, but don’t want one that is the length of a power wagon. I don’t expect them to build it, but it would be cool if they did.
Stuka87 cool yes! But I’ll take the short cab (if I didn’t have a kid)
the 2 door wrangler has no space for cargo, but a 2 door truck would. @@devinbender8428
2.5" lift and 37" KO2 tires there would have been no scraping on the Gladiator, and with beefed up Dana 44 axles, it's ready for it.
It Is very cool
i love the truck, but wish they would make it with the 2 door option and the new v6 diesel engine they say is coming in 2020
nemodab you can always make your own 2 door
Nothing came in 2020 except covid
Would have been interested to see both in 4 low without any braking or throttle. Just let it crawl over those.
My new dream car ❣️❣️❣️
Safe to say as slow as Edmunds is on the tubes, they got no chance on Truck nights in America episodes.
Does it come in a V8?
Can’t make up my mind yet
I like the Jeep Wrangler. If I need a pickup truck for off-road, I'd get a Dodge Power Wagon. Thanks for sharing all this info.
Yet somehow the power wagon which is a 2500 series truck has less payload capacity
ohgodwhat1 Yea big pickups lose more payload when fitted for off-road.
Or a Rebel or spend $10k more on a discounted Raptor
Agree, I'm going in the army here soon with my wife and 1yr old. Plan on getting a fully loaded 2019 dodge Durango citadel for her and our future kids, I'm stuck between the Rubicon or mobar wrangler, a Rubicon gladiator or a 19 powerwagon. Torn between all 3. As far as more bang for your $ it's more towards the powerwagon, but the mods for the wrangler are insane with hundreds of customized options. And I think the gladiator is cool, but the overall price and size is really making it the last option out of the 3 for me.
@@elizabethzaffarese8818 Thanks for serving... Good Luck for all :|
One is built on a Ram 1500 frame...Honda Ridgeline not need apply.
Norm T Ridgeline is good for family and long trips because how smooth and comfortable ride you get not true truck
@@AlejandroP1980s a Pilot or Odyssey doesn't ride smooth?
Add the 35in tires and you have no issues.
and a lift kit
videopyc Jeep has said you don’t need a lift to fit a 35” on the JL & JT Rubicons
With such a long wheelbase you realistically need a 37 to make the proportions look right
Marty McFly 37s will fit with minimal modifications
I bet you a mild lift and 35s would change those test a bunch.
2 door diesel would be a game changer
And would have to cost $20k more to carry the same profit margin. Economies of scale is very sensitive in the auto industry.
I like the truck, but I like the desil powered wrangler. Which one l, which one..
Most beautiful car in the world, especially in red black
How reliable are these things?
I really like the Gladiator, just wish the Hemi v8 was an engine option.
Turd Ferguson not gonna happen in a midsized truck.
They also just announced that while a hemi could fit, it wouldn't pass safety and crash tests due to lack of space in the engine bay
Isaac Garcia a Hemi Gladiator would also cost 60-65k easy! And I doubt you Would be able to have 4 Wheel Doctor No way that front axle will fit under a hemi. They were barely able to do it with the charger. And that has a much smaller front axle
I mean you could always just drop a hemi in it, I'm gonna wait for the diesel.
Same here I’m waiting for the diesel because I tow quite often about 5000 lbs through mountains and the V6 won’t cut it. My HEMI 1500 is a rock star at towing and everything else but I think I’ll be trading if I can get over the sticker shock...
Ok
I've never seen someone so scare to rub skid plates... smh
if 1 shock pnts forward & 1 pnts backward why not hve more pay load w/ forward & rear shocks straight from factory. Need that 2k payload if a truck, or else u just by a 4 by 4 truck.
If your going to hve a short shitty bed why not hve pull out under bed factory boxes on slides & just raise the bed ht 1ft. Short shitty, then u hve to hve more storage, or else just still really a toy/truck.
That’s for lead sprung vehicles. Because control arms operate in an arc you’d get 1 shock getting stiffer and the other getting softer.
Get back to me when they make it as a 2 door on a shorter wheelbase.
Get back to me when enough people actually care to make it profitable.
would be glad if there would be a Diesel version... otherwise it is simply to expensive to drive it in germany... :(
I noticed you didn't include the JLU Rubicons hilariously bad payload of 892 lbs.
Patrick Rich well to be fair that’s only like 108lbs less than a Raptor which is a full-size truck.
@@ALMX5DP Ford Raptor payload is 1353, and is a Baja Truck
jeffrey williams this link says Scab has a payload of 1000lbs and SCrew has a 1200lb rating. And the Rubicon is a rock crawler, so both have niche functionality but one is a full-size pickup and the other a midsize SUV. www.ford.com/services/assets/Brochure?make=Ford&model=F-150&year=2019
You want flex not payload out of a rubicon suspension.
@@lokirip2372 I'm not arguing that, just that 892 lbs is pathetic. 4 decent sized dudes can't even take their carry ons. it's about 100 lbs worse than a compass
You know what's the real diff between the two? ... your mortgage payment. Put them side by side, the JL looks nicer and compact. Gladiator looks clumpsy and long.
John Smitherson that sentiment can be taken further saying the Unlimited 4-doors look clumsy and long compared to the 2-doors.
@@ALMX5DP 2 and 4 door look proportionate. Gladiator looks like an extra limb on your body you don't want.
John Smitherson we’ve certainly gotten used to the look, but back when 4-door wranglers weren’t yet a thing many thought that of them. The Gladiator doesn’t do itself any favors by having the rear doors look oddly shaped in the body but I think we will grow accustomed to it too.
@@ALMX5DP It's that 90 degree back glass panel on the hard top that makes it look odd. If you look at other model with soft top and back open it actually looks better.
@John Smitherson It's the little tires that make it look so disproportionate, kinda like the guy at the gym that never does legs. Rubitrux was custom building these before Jeep made the Gladiator. Put a lift kit and 37"+ tires on them and they look awesome www.rubitrux.com/2016-6-4l-hemi-brute-double-cab-conversion-black.html
The Wrangler looks much better. Something disproportionate about the Gladiator; just looks way too long. I’d take a JL if I need a SUV & go with a Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado ZR2 if I want a truck.
I’ll stick to my 2013 Fj cruiser with high miles and no problems at Lake Tahoe
Underneath they’re very different vehicles.
I think he means sway bar links not stabilizer bars also would’ve been nice to put them side by side to compare the length lastly with the same engine the heavier gladiator will be a dog driving !! Mpg difference?
series 9 aren’t stabilizer bars just another name for sway or antiroll bars?
Alan Bowers generally speaking the stabilizer refers to the steering shock dampener... most jeepers call them sway bar disconnects.
The stabilizer is the sway bar itself but on rubicons there is a button that will automatically disconnect your sway bar links which are attached to the sway bar anti sway bar or stabilizer at one end and the axle at the other this is done for more tire articulation
@@series9193 I get that, but it's the same thing. And actually I think OEMs use internal "disconnects" which dont actually remove any physical connection like a link (as vehicle owners are used to). There is a housing on the bar itself which i believe is magnetic. When the sway bar is "disconnected" that motor housing deal gets sent an electrical signal to remove power from the magnets to act as though the sway bar is disconnected.
@@vinniegunns3293 nope, that’s called a steering stabilizer / damper
Can I say it, what is w/the low interior ceiling ht, NEW "truck", fix it make it taller; God.
Hve quick disconnect rear step bumper if off-roading it, w/locks, then u can make the bumper for rear as work functional as best design as u can & still take off to off-road.
Everyone raises them minimum 3 inch
Gladiator Rubicon should have come with 35”’s stock and offered an optional Hemi. That’s all we ask. Personally, I deal with the many other shortcomings. Reliability should be much better though.
1,600 payload not 1,160
Seems like I'm looking at a Ram made to look like a Jeep.
Aussie2u wait a year or two and you will likely see this same vehicle which actually looks like a Ram.
I don’t see that at all...
@@BrianLampright913 I think that (and I could be wrong) they were implying this is a new frame under the Jeep that is rumored to be the bones for the new Dodge "Ram" Dakota.
Alan Bowers yeah, I just think it’s a lame observation “who cares”?
What if Jeep made an electric Wrangler?
It would be awesome. Use four individual motors and you'd have unbeatable wheel control for crawling like the test at the end. With no driveshaft in the centre you'd get better ground clearance. If range & battery cost are issues just add a range-extender engine.
GhaV jGRite (jeaHAvee)
They are working on it for the next generation.
They're already testing out a PHEV (Plug In Hybrid Electric) Wrangler test mule
While electric would be great for the 100% torque right off the line, the range is just not there yet. When out on the trail carrying extra battery packs does not work like carrying extra gas cans. Maybe a hybrid would work until all electric has the range.
Jeff Martinson plug-in hybrids are the near future. Small gas motor (2.0 or smaller) and a 300hp electric motor. You can get 80mpg in most cars AND have instant torque.
Put a 4.0l inline 6 in it and a 5 speed then we will talk
Jon Allen do it yourself and you don’t have to talk to anybody
If the tail gate is double thick & doubles the length of normal tail when folded down then not as short & shitty a short bed.
its interesting, seeing them side by side, the gladiator proportions look much much better than the 4 door wrangler. I wouldn't have thought. Shame that all midsize trucks have abysmal interior storage.
Seriously, get someone who has offroaded drive that thing. That is the reason for the skid plates.
Anyone who buys a gladiator and keeps it stock stance is a fool
Those rear doors on the Gladiator are ridiculous.
They could’ve given the gladiator the same wheelbase as the 4 door wrangler with ease. Rn the gladiator doesn’t seem fit for overlanding with its wheelbase
Costs too much
Scott Bowie have you shopped trucks and SUV’s lately? They ALL cost too much. Compared to the rest of the market the price is where it should be. A suburban these days is $75,000! An F150 is easy to spend over $70k it’s Insane! Jeep is actually offering an incredibly unique and off road capable product for a competitive price. It is expensive but so is the entire market.
same 1 star crash rating?
its a jeep people buy jeeps for what they are. most people that biy jeeps don't care about fake crash rating. in real world crashers its a whole different animal
@Qi Gong when people purchase that type of vehicles crash test is not top priority. jeep is a way of life thats why they make more custom accessory s for jeeps than any other vehicles out there. if people worried about crash test half of your vehicles on the road wouldn b on the road. most people don't realize crash test always change. a vehicle 10 years ago would n pass current crash test but they might have rated top of the salest vehicles back then
Do your research rather than just read click bait headlines. The reasons it scored poorly were complete BS and would only matter to people who plan on texting while they drive. I actually pay attention while I drive so those reasons make no difference to me.
@@BrianLampright913 you may be the best driver but how about everyone else on the road?
Wrangler all the way...Gladiator designers have to go back to the drawing boards!
So the Gladiator is a Jeep Wrangler with a longer bed and cost $10,000 more vs the Tacoma Ranger and Colorado. Gotcha.
lol...I know makes no sense. That's like pay more for a mini van cause there are more space.
Also cones standard with 4wd and is the only convertible in it's class
Vintage and Antique Automobiles 3.6 4x4 gladiator double cab is 40k+ where the competition is closer to 35k and that’s base model. Loaded is 45k vs 55k
@@devinbender8428 a base model gladiator is 35k so I don't really know where you are getting that info from
Vintage and Antique Automobiles with the same equipment that comes on a “base” 4x4 ranger.
For 35k on a ranger I can get a XLT 4x4 double cab with ford 360 and towing package and FX4 sport package.
It would cost well over 40k to get all those options. On a gladiator (about 44,500) just priced it.
Looks like the Gladiator can get high centered easily because its so long. A big design mistake.
The Gladiator's main purpose is that of a regular midsize pickup that can take on light towing duty and go off-roading mildly. If you're serious about 4x4ing, then one is more inclined to buy the two or four door Wrangler Rubicon.
With a 2” lift and 37s the Gladiator will be great off road.
@@capt.stubing5604 Stock gladiator will get you stuck. Im now looking forward to the 2020 Ford Bronco. Especially after learning about the 1 star safety crash tests for JL.
Our new word for today is dog crap...
Can you say dog crap...
Man that gladiator is horribly priced, if you get it with options you end up in the same price range as a fully size truck with options.
oh, you mean, like a nice Ram Powerwagon? With abadass, manly, tough, Big Gas 6.4L V8, and a really useful bed? only about a 12 inch longer wheelbase. I forgot, it comes standard with a winch too! The Mall is an expensive place, ain't it!
Have you priced a Raptor recently? At least 15K more loaded. It’s a better racer but it would struggle in Moab.
@@capt.stubing5604 I have, and the Tundra. But if you compare a loaded truck you have to compare it to a loaded Gladiator, I was able to get a Gladiator to above 88k and thats before aftermarkets.
I just think it has the wrong price point for the type of vehicle it is.
Eric Broke It are you talking Canadian $? I just ordered a Rubicon with almost every option at 3% below dealer invoice for about $54k.
Eric Broke It that’s usd but I’ll probably end up spending a lot more building it.