It’s no joke — Jeep has built a mid-size pickup (historians may remember the brand has tried this before, for example in the mid-1980s with the Cherokee-based Comanche). Called the Gladiator, think of a 31-inch longer Wrangler that has a five-foot steel bed and the ability to tow up to 7,650 pounds.
The new "Gladiator"
First teased at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year, this rugged vehicle is immediately recognizable wearing a modified version of the classic seven-slot grille featuring extra space between the slats for extra airflow needed by the enhanced performance. LED lighting is available all around.
Out back, the power-lockable tailgate is damped and has the ability to open in three positions to accommodate different sized cargo. Integrated tie-downs, under-rail illumination and optional bed divider, covered power source and tonneau cover provide additional versatility.
(credit: FCA Canada)
In typical Jeep fashion, many parts of the Gladiator are easily removable. Owners can use the included tool kit to take off the lightweight aluminum doors or fold down the windshield by removing four bolts along the top of the frame. A Sunrider soft-top or three-piece hardtop allow further opportunities to let more sunshine in.
The cabin contains plenty of techs and practicality like either a seven or 8.4-inch fourth-generation Uconnect touchscreen infotainment display and on select models, a forward-facing off-road camera to spot any obstructions on the trail ahead. And there’s plenty of room for gear inside any of the several storage bins and spaces.
At launch, a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine will be offered, producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, mated to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed automatic. A 3.0-litre turbocharged EcoDiesel V6 with 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque is coming next year.
Customers have two 4x4 systems to choose from: Command-Trac found on Sport and Overland models and Rock-Trac on the grade-topping Rubicon, the latter including Tru-Lok locking differentials better suited for aggressive off-roading on unpredictable surfaces.
All trims receive skidplates, front and rear tow hooks, full-size spare mounted behind the rear axle, 11.1-inch ground clearance and are capable of fording up to 30 inches of water. Rubicons also get a special electronic sway bar disconnect function and steel heavy-duty rear bumper and 33 inches, rather than 17-inch tires.
You can find more details about the Gladiator at Jeep.ca
