New Jeep® Gladiator, the innovative pickup blending tradition and future

New model marks the return of the brand to the pickup segment and arrives in European dealerships to enhance Jeep_® 80^th anniversary celebrations.

In the year of its 80^th anniversary, the Jeep® brand introduces to Europe the new Gladiator, the pickup truck featuring a distinct lifestyle appeal, great versatility and the ability to meet the needs for mobility and freedom. As a unique all-terrain pickup, the new model allows customers to stand out from the everyday and live every moment to the fullest. With Jeep Gladiator, it’s easy to overcome every obstacle and have fun, with no limits or compromises. This is where its uniqueness in the segment lies: it retains the ability to meet practical needs of cargo carriage and it is perfectly suited to leisure time and everyday activities courtesy of its great versatility.

The new Gladiator also marks a major return for the brand to the pickup segment, after almost 30 years since the launch of the last Jeep model with “truck” credentials and bed: the Comanche, which was in production from 1986 to 1992. This provides for the Gladiator to fit perfectly into Jeep heritage as it brings to attention a major brand tradition rooted long ago in 1947, when Willys Overland introduced a one-ton truck with four-wheel drive based on the CJ-2A. This first pickup was followed over almost half a century by different models – all with shared features, and made to be robust, versatile and reliable.  These models included the FC-150/170 (1957-1965), the Jeep Gladiator/J Series (1963-1987), the CJ-8 Scrambler (1981-1985) and the Jeep Comanche (1986-1992), the last pickup in the brand’s heritage.

This well-established tradition is now brought back to life by the new Gladiator, a highly versatile pickup that shares the Jeep Wrangler’s DNA in terms of unparalleled all-terrain capability and open-air freedom. At the same time, it is a model specifically designed and engineered to be a 100% pickup with “go anywhere, do anything” features which add to a wealth of advanced technology, a powerful and efficient engine, convenience, functionality and flexibility in transporting cargo. All this is complemented by the unmistakable Jeep design, as well as specific features to meet the credentials of the pickup segment and provide customers with additional functionality for both leisure and everyday activities.

Moreover, the new pickup also meets the needs of the most active lifestyles, offering several customisation options from Mopar®, with an array of Jeep® Authentic Accessories and Jeep® Performance Parts specifically designed for this model.

In Europe, the Gladiator is available in the Sport and Overland trim levels, as well as in the exclusive Launch Edition offered during the launch phase. From April, the celebrative 80^th Anniversary special-edition model will complete the Gladiator’s European range.

The colour palette includes nine exterior options: Black, Firecracker Red, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White, Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat, Hydro Blue, Sting Grey, Snazzberry and Sarge Green, in combination with a soft top, or either a black or body-colour hardtop. The Sport trim comes with 17-inch wheels, while the Overland, Launch Edition and 80^th Anniversary ride on 18-inch wheels.

Finally, the new Jeep Gladiator provides access to the benefits of Jeep Wave, the new loyalty and customer care programme offering Jeep owners exclusive services, including maintenance and roadside assistance. It is marked out by a logo inspired by the traditional greeting of Jeep owners – a raised hand waving, or two or four fingers extended upward from the steering wheel. This gesture of friendship is part of Jeep history, and all ‘Jeepers’ are pleased to uphold this tradition. The main benefits of Jeep Wave include: the first two scheduled vehicle services (within 24 months of the purchase), thanks to the ’EASY CARE‘ two-year maintenance programme, a 24/7 roadside assistance service, a Priority Customer Service provided by a dedicated, multi-lingual Jeep  Call Center and privileged entry to brand events and partnerships.

In-depth information

Authentic Jeep exteriors and interiors, with a focus on technology and functionality, including a waterproof cabin

The new Jeep Gladiator boasts a rugged, distinguished design that is immediately recognisable with traditional Jeep design cues. The Jeep design team kept the legendary seven-slot grille seen on Wrangler but included minor updates, and slanted it backwards to enhance aerodynamics. LED headlights, taillights and fog lamps with crisp white lighting come as standard in all trim levels, making the Gladiator’s look unmistakable.

Clever functionality and versatility were the focus while designing the Gladiator’s durable 153-centimetre bed. LED bed lighting, an optional weatherproof external power source (230V) and strong integrated tie-downs provide durability and versatility.

Jeep Gladiator is a unique vehicle, featuring multiple configuration possibilities for easy open-air adventures thanks to several windshield and top combinations: three-piece hardtop, soft top and top less. Each option for open-air driving ensures maximum freedom to travel in every season, in the city as well as off the beaten track. The Cargo Management Group features a practical, lockable under seat storage compartment with a practical integrated handle that allows for easy transportation (as with a suitcase). It provides additional storage options to organise and secure cargo in the bed thanks to the trail rail management system and increases the utility of the Gladiator. The available protective Spray-In Bedliner and tonneau cover options (soft roll-up, soft and hard tri-fold) deliver even more choice, and keep cargo secure while adding further customisation. A three-position damped tailgate adds further functionality.

The Jeep Gladiator’s interior combines authentic styling, comfort and versatility, courtesy of the numerous storage compartments such as the lockable drawer under the rear seats, the closed compartments behind the rear seats back and mesh pockets that extend for the entire length of the doors. Fully washable interiors represent another exclusive feature in the segment.

The heritage-inspired centre stack features a clean, sculpted form that complements the horizontal dashboard design and sports a different finish for each trim. More specifically, inside are black or heritage tan cloth seats, as well as optional black or dark saddle leather seats with accent stitching and lumbar support. To increase interior comfort, heated front row and steering wheel are offered upon request. The second row can be folded flat to access cab-back storage and provide a load floor for larger items.

There is also a functional organizer in the storage compartment under the second row, designed to stock screws and bolts of Gladiator’s tops, doors and foldable windshield when driving open-air, and underline how everything  onboard the Jeep pickup has been engineered  for easy, practical usage

The Gladiator’s cabin features a fourth-generation Uconnect™ system with 7- or 8.4-inch touchscreen and instrument cluster with a 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) display, which allows the driver to configure information in more than 100 ways for easier access while driving.

Jeep Gladiator stands out for its all-round functionality and user-friendly features. A front-facing camera, which comes as standard with the Launch Edition (optional on the Sport and Overland trim levels), allows obstructions ahead to be seen easily – on both off-road trails and the daily commute in town. The front-facing camera sits behind the middle slot of the Gladiator’s seven-slot grille and can be operated through the Uconnect display. Fitted for the first time ever on a Jeep model, the front camera adds to the functionality and safety offered by the Gladiator, not only when driving off-road but also on everyday journeys. It also includes a self-cleaning function.

The standard equipment offers a 9-speaker Premium Alpine Audio System including rear subwoofer and a 552W, 12-channel amplifier with optional, portable Bluetooth wireless speaker. Located behind the rear seats, the wireless speaker can be recharged while the Gladiator is driven and has a dust-resistant exterior. It is also waterproof at depths up to 90 cm for up to 30 minutes. It can also be paired to the speaker of another Jeep Gladiator and is capable of charging other devices when connected to its USB port. The wireless speaker – a unique feature in its class – allows customers to take their music with them when reaching their destination, whether their trip ends on the beach, in the city or continues on extreme off-road trails.

Advanced Euro 6-D Final diesel powertrain – the most powerful in its class in Europe

The powerful 3.0-litre MultiJet V-6 engine fitted to the Gladiator lineup for Europe delivers 264 hp at 3.600 rpm and 600 Nm of torque at 1.400-2.800 rpm and features Engine Stop-Start (ESS) technology. This sophisticated diesel engine implements advanced turbocharger technology with a low-friction bearing designed for low-end and brisk performance. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to optimise engine output while driving off-road or provide smooth, efficient power delivery at highway speeds. It also complies with Euro 6D Final standards.

The third generation of the 3.0-litre MultiJet V-6 engine delivers increased torque and horsepower, along with superb fuel economy and minimal levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) to meet the needs of Gladiator customers.

Several significant changes contribute to the engine’s improved dynamic and fuel economy performance:

• A new-generation water-cooled turbocharger with variable geometry turbine (VGT) and low-friction bearing increases efficiency and responsiveness during transient conditions
• Redesigned cylinder head intake ports with higher flow capability improve swirl and flow, increasing performance and fuel economy
• The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system design has been updated to a dual loop (low and high pressure) system. The added low-pressure circulation system draws gases after the diesel particulate filter, thus minimizing turbocharger energy losses, which increases fuel economy
• The compression ratio has been optimized to 16.0:1 from 16.5:1 to improve fuel economy and reduce engine noise
• High-pressure (29,000 psi/2,000 bar) direct-injection fuel injector nozzles were redesigned to match the newly designed and optimized combustion chamber, reducing fuel consumption
• Lightweight aluminum alloy pistons were completely redesigned to include thinner rings and low-friction diamond-like carbon coating on the pin and compression piston ring to reduce parasitic losses
• NVH has been improved by offsetting the piston pin 0.3 millimeters from the centerline
• The lower portion of the two-piece oil sump uses a lightweight sandwiched polymer/metal material, which further reduces NVH

The 3.0-litre V-6 uses dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder and a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks. The block is cast with compacted graphite iron, which provides strength to dampen vibrations, but weighs less than gray cast iron. A compacted graphite iron bedplate adds rigidity to the block.

The V-6 engine uses a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods for strength and durability. The aluminum alloy pistons are cooled on the underside via oil jets. Heat-treated aluminum cylinder heads use individual bearing caps to reduce friction and minimize NVH. The chain-driven overhead camshafts employ roller-finger followers.
The diesel engine’s turbo Charge Air Cooler (CAC) is located at the base of the grille, in front of the radiator, to maximize cooler temperatures.

The most capable Jeep pickup ever, boasting “Trail Rated” prowess on all trim levels

Jeep Gladiator delivers the brand’s legendary off-road capabilities courtesy of the sophisticated full-time Selec-Trac 4×4 system, featuring a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, and heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles, with a 3.73 rear axle ratio.

Selec-Trac operates in four driving modes (plus Neutral):

• 2H (Two-Wheel Drive High Range)
• 4H AUTO (Full-Time Active On-Demand High Drive)
• 4H Part-Time (Part-Time Four-Wheel Drive High Range)
• N (Neutral)
• 4L (Four-Wheel Drive Low Range)

The new Gladiator features shift on the fly technology, which allows for shifting between 2WD and 4WD High range at speed up to 72km/h. In normal driving conditions, Selec-Trac operates in two-wheel drive (2WD) and transfers 100 percent of engine torque to the rear axle.
By shifting the dedicated lever to the 4WD High position, the driver can switch to four-wheel drive mode ideal when driving on slippery surfaces, such as sand, mud, snow or ice. 4H mode can  be selected to operate either in the new Auto mode – ideal for a confident and comfortable use in any driving condition thanks to the continuous monitoring and management of the torque and the automatic engagement and disengagement of the 4WD as needed to maintain traction -, or in the 4H Part Time mode that ensures the torque is always evenly distributed between front and rear axles. To tackle extremely challenging and demanding off-road tracks, drivers can use the 4WD Low mode with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio that multiplies the engine torque.

A standard Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential provides extra torque and grip during slippery, low-traction situations, such as driving over sand, gravel, snow or ice.

As well as boasting outstanding breakover, departure and approach angles, on top of the rear limited slip differential, all the trim levels in the Gladiator lineup – Sport, Overland and Launch Edition – offer ‘Trail-Rated’ off-road prowess.

Trail Rated performance is the result of a series of heavy tests performed in the following areas: traction, water fording, maneuverability, articulation and ground clearance.

On the new Jeep Gladiator, the Trail Rated badge includes the following features:

• Selec-Trac 4×4 system with 2.72:1 crawl ratio standard on all models;
• Skid plates and rear tow hook;
• Approach angle of 41 degrees, breakover angle of 18.4 degrees, departure angle of 25 degrees and ground clearance of 25.3 cm;
• Standard all-terrain tyres mounted on 17- or 18-inch wheels;
• Up to 76 cm of water fording;
• Up to 2.721 kg of towing capacity and 565 kg of 4×4 payload capacity.

 

Rugged body-on-frame design is the foundation for legendary Jeep truck utility and durability

The Jeep Gladiator uses a body-on-frame design and features a superbly engineered five-link suspension system, which enhances capability and provides composed on-road driving dynamics and passenger safety.

Gladiator’s body-on-frame design uses advanced materials and engineering to be lightweight yet stiff and durable, and features an all-new lightweight, high-strength steel frame. When compared to Jeep Wrangler 4-door, Gladiator’s frame is an additional 78.7 cm in length while the wheelbase is 49.2 cm longer. The extended wheelbase and the bed’s positioning center aft of the rear axle centerline enable better weight distribution and a more comfortable and composed ride when carrying cargo.

Gladiator utilizes the proven five-link coil suspension configuration . The springs have been tuned for an optimum balance between on-road handling while providing a comfortable ride around town, with or without cargo in the bed, and legendary off-road capability. Ride comfort, body-roll control, handling, payload and towing capability is significantly enhanced with assistance from shock tuning, hard points, and body mount strategy.

A full array of advanced safety and security features

Safety and security were paramount in the development of the new Jeep Gladiator, which offers an array of active and passive safety and security features. The first of these are the full LED headlights, tail lamps and fog lamps that are standard across the Gladiator range. Additional standard features include ParkView rear camera with dynamic grid, front and rear Park Assist and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation. Optional safety systems include Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path Detection, exclusive forward-facing Trail-cam, Forward Collision Warning Plus with autonomous braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function and Automatic High Beam.

Advanced fourth-generation Uconnect™ system with new Uconnect™ Services for advanced on-board and off-board connectivity

Jeep Gladiator offers the fourth generation Uconnect™ system with either a 7-inch or 8.4-inch NAV screen, delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features. The Uconnect™ 8.4” NAV includes easy-to-use features, enhanced processing power, faster start-up times, high-resolution touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for hands-free phone, navigation and voice texting. The new Gladiator also comes with state-of-the-art connectivity, to meet customers’ increasingly discerning requirements, courtesy of the new Uconnect™ Services. These features can be accessed via various touchpoints, including the My Uconnect mobile app, smartwatch, website, buttons on the ceiling and radio. Available on all trim levels from the Sport upwards, in combination with the 8.4-inch infotainment system, Uconnect Services offers advanced on-board and off-board connectivity and a range of services designed for safety and comfort.

Customers can use the My Uconnect app to check the fuel level, open and close the doors, turn on the lights, easily view the vehicle’s most recent location and much more. In the event of a breakdown, the pickup can also put the driver in immediate contact with an operator to dispatch assistance, or with customer care for any support needed.

In addition to the services included in the price of the vehicle, several optional complementary packs are available, including My Alert and My Fleet Manager, which can be easily purchased from the e-commerce site dedicated to value-added services.

Courtesy of the My Alert service, customers can constantly monitor their pickup, and receive a notification in case of theft, if the vehicle is moved or if the Uconnect™ box is tampered with. They will then be supported in the recovery of the vehicle.

With the innovative and comprehensive My Fleet Manager pack, fleet operators can manage and maintain full control over their connected vehicles. Some of the new Uconnect™ Services will be available at the time of launch, while others will be subsequently integrated at a later date to fully exploit the technical capabilities of the Uconnect Box.

 Trim levels

The three trim levels in the Jeep Gladiator lineup deliver specific equipment and features, and are designed to meet all customers’ needs. The Sport trim offers improved functionality and content for off-road customisation, while the Overland trim represents the reference point in terms of both comfort and technology, with a wide range of features included as standard. The two trims in the Gladiator’s European lineup are joined in the launch phase by the exclusive Launch Edition: a limited-edition model reserved for the first customers that will order the new pickup. The Launch Edition is packed with the options customers will expect from the top-of-the-range Gladiator trim, and will be exclusively available with a Black, Firecracker Red, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White or Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat exterior. 18-inch alloy wheels, an exclusive badge, body-colour hardtop and fender flares, Cargo Management Group and cloth tonneau cover provide practicality and convenience and complete the vehicle’s aesthetic character. For the interior, the new Launch Edition features a Monaco-wrapped dashboard with black, heated leather seats – a further enhancement to an already generously equipped cab. Other standard features covering infotainment, on-board comfort and safety include Alpine Premium Audio system with subwoofer and portable wireless speaker, Uconnect™ with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 8.4-inch touchscreen, forward-facing camera, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Path Detection, Forward Collision Warning Plus and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function and Automatic High Beam.

Jeep Gladiator ’80^th Anniversary’ special-edition model

Arriving at Jeep dealerships in April, the new Jeep Gladiator ’80^th Anniversary‘ features 18-inch alloy wheels with Granite Crystal accents, Neutral Grey Metallic front grille and fog lamp bezels, Neutral Grey Metallic headlamp rings, body-colour hard top and fender flares and celebratory badges. A spray-in bedliner and side steps add functionality and practicality, completing the aesthetic characterisation specific to this special-edition model.  In the cabin, the special series features black leather seats with tungsten stitching and 80^th Anniversary badge, which are further enhancements to an already generous interior in terms of equipment. Standard technology and safety features include a 9-speaker Alpine audio system with a 552W subwoofer, Uconnect™ 8.4 NAV system with 8.4-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Path Detection and Keyless Enter ‘N Go™.  Dedicated berber floor mats and a premium interior headliner are also included in the standard equipment. The new Gladiator “80th Anniversary” is also powered by the powerful 3.0-litre MultiJet V-6 diesel engine with 264 hp and 600 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Exclusive Jeep® Authentic Accessories and Jeep® Performance Parts powered by Mopar® for the new Gladiator
Mopar® offers a range of over 90 Jeep® Authentic Accessories and Jeep® Performance Parts specific to the new Jeep Gladiator – some of which are completely new, while others have been redesigned to customize the new Jeep pickup. All of them are available for purchase when ordering the vehicle and some can be fitted to the vehicle directly at the factory.

In order to further enhance Gladiator’s highly functional nature and predisposition to customisation, Mopar has worked on various ‘types’ which satisfy the requirements of customers, even those with the most active lifestyles:

Style accessories: made to enhance the exterior style without losing sight of the functionality and versatility that distinguish the new Gladiator. These include items for aesthetic customisation, such as body sides graphics, black hood latches and satin black grille; but there is also a range of tonneau covers (soft roll-up, soft and hard tri-fold). For customers eager to experience the Gladiator’s open-air freedom, several top options are available, including a black or body-color hard top, two soft-top solutions (with standard and premium material) and the mesh or solid bikini sun bonnets.

Interior comfort accessories: enrich the aesthetic characterisation of the cabin and on-board comfort, and include steel or black plastic door sill guards with Gladiator logo, steel pedal kit, front and rear grab handles, all-weather or premium carpet floor mats and Katzkin leather seats.

Performance Accessories: enhance Gladiator’s performance while protecting the vehicle during off-road driving and include rock rails, skid plates and the “Jeep Performance Parts” emblem.

Carriage accessories and load-carrying systems: in line with the Gladiator’s all-terrain capability, these accessories enable customers to “go anywhere, do anything” and include carriers, which can be fitted either to the roof or to the bed, to allow transportation of sports equipment such as skis, kayaks, surfboards and bikes, roof boxes and roof baskets with mesh to secure cargo.

Safety & Care accessories: these improve the protection of the new pickup and include a vehicle (indoor) and cab cover, front-end and hood cover, locking fuel cap, wheel and spare tyre locks and audio system screen protector.

Leasys and FCA Bank support the launch of the new Gladiator with specific financing and mobility solutions.

Leasys, a Stellantis brand and subsidiary of FCA Bank, makes available long-term car rental solutions for a totally relaxed driving experience as Leasys Miles, pay-per-use solution, and Be Free.

• Leasys Miles is the pay-per-use mobility solution, which answers the needs of those who use the car mainly within the city, with a low annual mileage, in a discontinuous way and want to enjoy the pleasure of driving without thinking about car management. Pay-per-use rentals last 48 months, generally with no down-payment and an affordable monthly payment, in addition to a variable fee calculated on the basis of the actual kilometres travelled.
• Be Free is the mobility solution for private individuals, which allows customers to enjoy their car hassle free and for all the time needed. Generally with no down payment, fixed monthly rent and the main services always included. And if the needs change, it is possible to return the vehicle with no early-return penalty, based on the time defined in the contract.

FCA Bank supports the sales of Jeep vehicles by providing a broad range of financing solutions to help customers to purchase or lease their Jeep Gladiator. Anybody who wishes to drive the new Jeep pickup can opt for one of the following products:

• Instalment Loan: Traditional financing that allows the buyer to pay for the vehicle over an extended period of time;
• Leasing and PCP (Personal Contract Purchase): Highly flexible solutions with low monthly payments and the possibility to choose, on the contract expiration date, whether to return, keep or replace the car with a new one;
• Private Lease: A solution for drivers who do not want to own the vehicle, with the ensuing costs and uncertainties, involving a single monthly payment inclusive of the main insurance, assistance and infomobility services for a peace-of-mind experience.

All of FCA Bank’s solutions are intended not only for individuals but also for companies and independent professionals. In addition, FCA Bank provides a broad range of insurance products in combination with the financing contract, for both personal protection – such as Prestito Protetto, which ensures the repayment of part of the loan in case of sudden and unpredictable occurrences such as a job loss – and car protection. The financing and insurance solutions described are available in most European countries where the companies of the FCA Bank Group operate. All the structures are extremely flexible, to meet in full local requirements.

Rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks

The new Gladiator is the latest iteration in a long line of Jeep trucks that began back in 1947 when Willys Overland introduced a one-ton truck with four-wheel drive based on the CJ-2A. New Gladiator is the latest in a long line of Jeep trucks that includes:

• Jeep Pickup: 1947-1965
  A 118-inch wheelbase pickup that realized few product changes. It was Willys-Overland’s first attempt to diversify the Jeep brand from the CJ.
• Jeep FC-150/170 Pickup: 1957-1965
  These Forward-Control series Jeep vehicles were essentially work trucks – with an 81-inch wheelbase for the FC-150 and 103.5 inches for the FC-170. They received few changes during their lifecycle, though some 1959 and 1960 models featured full-floating front and rear axles, and some FC-170 models included dual rear wheels and a four-speed manual transmission.
• Jeep Gladiator/J-Series Pickup: 1963-1987
  Resembling the Wagoneer, Gladiator debuted in 1963 in either 120-inch (J-200) or 126-inch (J-300) form and featured a Dana 20 transfer case and Dana 44s front and rear. The Gladiator name was dropped in 1972.
• Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler: 1981-1985
  Introduced in 1981, the Scrambler was a Jeep similar to the CJ-7, but with a longer wheelbase. Known internationally as the CJ-8, it was available in either hard- or soft-top versions. Less than 30,000 Scramblers were built and are extremely popular among collectors today.
• Jeep Comanche (MJ): 1986-1992
  Based on the Cherokee platform and similarly equipped, the pickup received a six-foot bed in 1987. Later models offered Selec-Trac® or Command-Trac four-wheel drive.