Photos by Jill Ciminillo
Jeep unveiled an updated version of its Gladiator pickup truck at the 2023 Detroit Auto Show. For 2024, this rig will sport freshened exterior styling, a fully revised interior, and a pair of new trim levels.
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2024 Jeep Gladiator
Gladiator is a stretched version of the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited SUV with a 5-foot pickup bed on the back. As with many products sold by Jeep-parent Stellantis, the Gladiator name comes from the brand’s past, namely a series of pickups that were in production from 1962-1971. The moniker also appeared on a concept vehicle that made the auto show circuit in 2005. When the current iteration received the go-ahead, there was lot of hyper surrounding it. It had a fast start out of the gate and despite supply and production issues from the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 200,000 units found homes from 2019 through 2021. Sales have cooled since then so Jeep officials are hoping the updated 2024 model will re-ignite consumer interest.
The 2024 Gladiator sees an updated version of Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille and new wheel designs. The truck will continue with its open-air design its convertible roof, fold-flat windshield, and removable doors. Under the hood, there are no changes, with all models reprising a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Manual-transmission fans can breathe a sigh of relief as a 6-speed, three-pedal combo remains standard with an 8-speed automatic continuing as an option. Maximum payload and towing capacities are 1,725 and 7,700 pounds, respectively. Jeep was mum on any plans for an electrified version.
The 2024 roster ascends through Sport, Sport S, Willys, Mojave, Mojave X (new), Rubicon, and Rubicon X (new). The Mojave and Mojave X are designed for play in desert environments with a specific suspension lift and tuning. Rubicon variants are the most off-road capable with 4:1 low-range gearing, 84:1 crawl ratio, 33-inch all-terrain tires, front and rear locking differentials, the ability to ford water up to 31.5 inches deep, and maximum ground clearance of 11.6 inches.
The redesigned interior is where Jeep focused most of its attention for the 2024 Gladiator. The infotainment screen jumps to 12.3 inches with a new backlight designed for greater legibility in full sunlight. It sports Stellantis’ well-integrated Uconnect 5 software suite with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Jeep’s Adventure Guides that provides built-in maps for various off-road trails across the United States. More than 60 routes are included, and owners can pay an additional subscription fee to unlock a further 3,000 guides. The Mojave X and Rubicon X get features like heated 12-way power front seats, an upgraded audio system, Nappa-brand leather upholstery, and an integrated front off-road camera.
Pricing and availability were not announced at the show, but expect the base Sport to check in above $40,000 with a loaded Rubicon X breaking $75,000.
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CG Says:
The 2024 Gladiator looks like it will build upon its predecessor’s solid foundation of blending the Wrangler’s style and fun-to-drive nature with added pickup utility. Pricing remains our biggest concern, though this probably isn’t putting off too many buyers, especially since Jeep is dialing up the “luxury” with the new Mojave X and Rubicon X variants.
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2024 Jeep Gladiator Gallery
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