Jeep’s newest pickup truck is about to arrive. The upcoming 2020 Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size model, based on the Wrangler SUV. Whatsoever, imagine a four-door Wrangler Unlimited variant with extended wheelbase. On top of that, Gladiator a 5-foot cargo bed. Besides that, the rest of the vehicle is very similar to the Wrangler SUV.
Mid-size pickup truck segment is perhaps the most competitive segment in the truck world. However, Gladiators’ off-road ability will be a huge advantage for Jeep. Gladiator will look rugged but Jeep’s character is visible at first glance. On top of that, Gladiator will arrive as a body-on-frame pickup truck and it will offer independent rear suspension and powerful engine.
2020 Jeep Gladiator Exterior Design and Trim Levels
Unlike the Wrangler, the 2020 Jeep Gladiator will offer a 137-inch long wheelbase. That is 20 inches longer than the SUV model. For 2020, Gladiator will be available only in a crew cab variant. That means a four-door configuration is available.
Gladiator will arrive with four trim levels, Sport, Sport S, Overland and Rubicon. Knowing that the exterior will largely depend on the specific trim level. However, all trims will get a removable roof and folding windshield. Gladiator will be the first open-air off-roading pickup truck in history.
Rugged appearance looks very modern and Jeep’s character is visible at first glance. A five-foot bed is the only bed choice and we like the wider tailgate. You can choose between three roof setups and the soft-top roof is optional. Overland and Rubicon trims are offering a body-colored hardtop.
Cabin Looks Impressive
The cabin of the new 2020 Jeep Gladiator is very similar to the Wrangler’s interior. That is visible from the first moment when you open the door and enter the cabin. Similar layout, almost the same design, and list of features are very much alike. There will a room for five persons and Gladiator will offer an impressive list of standard amenities.
You don’t have to worry about comfort as the cabin is equipped with high-quality materials. Upper trim levels are more premium and are available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen. On the other hand, a 7.0-inch unit is offered as standard. Doors, roof, and windshield are very easy to remove and we can say the Gladiator is very practical.
2020 Jeep Gladiator Powertrain Options
A 3.6-liter V6 will power the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Jeep once again pulled this gasoline variant and no one is surprised at all. V6 will deliver 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine is available. Optional diesel will produce 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque.
Thanks to that, Gladiator will tow around 8,000 pounds or slightly less. Both 6-speed and 8-speed automatic transmission is in the offer. Rubicon variant is also available and it is the best possible off-road version. It offers an additional 11 inches of ride height. However, ride quality is quite jiggly at times and steering feels slow. That is something Jeep will have to improve in the future.
2020 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
Rubicon trim level already draws a lot of attention. It is the range-topping trim of the new 2020 Jeep Gladiator. Unlike the rest of the lineup, Rubicon is a very off-road capable pickup truck. It offers a different transfer case that provides lower crawl ration.
Thanks to that, crawling and climbing are better. Increased fenders, larger 33-inch all-terrain tires, and locking differentials are available as standard. New Fox shock absorbers and body-protecting rails and skid plates are also available. The interior offers more premium amenities and overall, Rubicon trim level is most expensive for a reason.
Price and Release Date
The upcoming 2020 Jeep Gladiator will go on sale in the coming months. The price will start at $31,000. Four trim levels are in the offer and the off-road Rubicon version will cost drastically over the base price.