2023 Jeep Gladiator has had fans demanding a truck version of the venerable Jeep Wrangler for years. A few years ago, the automaker finally made its latest version, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, a crew-cabin pickup truck with a 5-foot cargo bed and more off-road power than most other vehicles you’ll find on the road.
From the front seat to the front, the Gladiator looks and feels almost identical to the Wrangler it’s based on. And just like the Wrangler, you can remove the roof of the Gladiator for a sun-driving experience.
Sounds good, right? Well, that’s until it’s not. The Gladiator also has many of the Wrangler’s weaknesses, including a noisy interior on the highway and a wobbly ride.
In comparison, the Honda Ridgeline is much more practical and reasonable, while the Chevrolet Colorado and Toyota Tacoma give you a balanced combination of comfort and off-road capability. Which truck should you get? Check out our test team’s Gladiator Expert Ranking to help you decide.
- Formidable Jeep character and off-road prowess
- The only convertible truck you can buy
- Offers a bigger rear seat than other midsize pickups
- The price of the 2023 Jeep Gladiator is expected to start at $36,315
Jeep has not released detailed official information about the 2023 Jeep Gladiator as of this writing. We will update our recommendations if anything changes. But based on last year’s model the Overland trim should work well for many Gladiator buyers.
It comes with a good mix of features and a reasonable price. As for the engine, the diesel-only makes sense if you do a lot of long trips and want the best fuel economy and range.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Preview
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator is an off-road specialist in the form of a midsize pickup truck. It’s also the only pickup with a removable roof and doors. Based on the Wrangler, but with a 5-foot truck bed, the Gladiator can be a work vehicle on the week and a fun machine on the weekends.
While there are other midsize pickups with off-road capabilities, none are quite like the Jeep Gladiator. And of course, nothing can match Jeep’s off-road heritage.
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator model range goes from the basic Sport version to the custom rock climber (Rubicon) or one set up to race across the dunes (Mojave). At the rear, meanwhile, is a cargo bed that can handle a respectable load. And the Gladiator’s towing ability is quite large.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Rumors
There are good reasons for a massive upgrade though not necessarily ideal. The 2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon has some expensive changes in store. First, it looks like some trims won’t cross the New Year’s mark, being the 80th Anniversary for obvious reasons, and Freedom.
The Texas Trail special edition didn’t get a run and the Altitude trim based on Sport returned after a year’s absence, joining Sport, Willys Sport, Sport S, Willys Overland, Rubicon, Mojave, and High Altitude.
Everything will be more expensive next year than this year. Gladiator Sport rose $670 to $37,910 after costing a $1,595 goal. Prices for the full range along with increments are:
- Sport: $37.910
- Willys Sport: $40.010
- Sport S: $41,310
- Willys: $43.205
- Texas Trail: $44.455
- Altitude: $43.105
- Overland: $46.015
- Rubicon/Mojave: $50.215
- High Altitude: $54.865
2023 Jeep Gladiator Specs
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator is a new five-seater, four-door midsize truck. It only comes in a crew cabin configuration available in four trim levels: Sport, Overland, Rubicon, and Mojave. All are equipped with a 5-foot cargo bed and four-wheel drive.
Two engine options are available. They:
- 3.6 liter V6 (285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque)
- Diesel-powered 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 (260 hp, 442 lb-ft)
- A six-speed manual transmission is standard with the 3.6-liter engine, and an eight-speed automatic is optional. Diesel comes exclusively with an eight-speed automatic. Diesel is not
- available in the Mojave, but all other engine-transmission combos are available throughout the Gladiator range.
The Gladiator base trim, Sport, features:
- Crank windows, manual door locks, and manually adjustable mirrors
- Manually adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
- Cruise control
- Eight speaker audio system
- 5-inch center screen
- One USB port and voice control capability
Other standard Gladiator gear includes:
- Foldable soft top
- The removable door on 2023 Jeep Gladiator 2 Door
- Folding windshield
Several packages are available for the Sport, including the Willys Sport, Sport S, Willys, and 80th Anniversary Edition. They offer a variety of aesthetic touches to the Gladiator’s exterior along with various Jeep interior technology upgrades, breaking down most of the features that come standard on the Overland.
The Overland adds to the standard Sport features by:
- Auto headlight
- Power window
- Power door and tailgate lock
- Heated and auto-dimming rearview mirror
- 7-inch center screen with newer infotainment interface
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Two USB ports
- Automatic climate control
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
The Rubicon trim provides more off-road capability with standard features such as:
- 4.10 rear axle ratio for increased towing and off-road capability
- 33-inch all-terrain tires
- Fenders with increased clearance
- Locking the front and rear differential
- Electronically removable front stabilizer blade
- Fox shock absorbers
- Body armor stone rail and skid plate
- Dedicated two-speed transfer case for better off-road gearing
Finally, there’s Mojave. It is similar to the Rubicon but lacks the locking front differential and breaker stabilizer blades. Instead, it is designed for high-speed off-road driving with:
- Reinforced frame
- The transfer case is tuned to run the four-wheel-drive at higher speeds
- Fox internal bypass shock absorbers with hydraulic jumper bumper
- 1-inch lift for the front suspension
- Desert Rank Badge (not Footprint Value)
All trims can be equipped with a variety of options including:
- Additional switch group for wiring up to four electrical devices
- Spray Bedliner and semi-rigid tonneau cover
- Black hardtop with removable roof panels or premium soft top
Additional important options for Gladiator, available as stand-alone items or in packs, include:
- LED headlight
- The larger 8.4-inch infotainment screen
- Leather seating surface
- Premium Alpine sound system
- Class IV crane hitch
Available driver safety aids include:
- Blind-spot monitoring (warning you if vehicles in the next lane are in your blind spot)
- Rear parking sensor
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-defined distance between the Gladiator and the car in front)
- Forward collision mitigation (warning you of impending collisions and applying brakes in certain scenarios)
Read next: 2023 Jeep Commander: What We Know So Far
2023 Jeep Gladiator Changes
The Dana 44’s solid body-on-frame construction and front/rear axles are the kind of thing that off-roaders are all hot under their bandanas. Like the Wrangler it’s based on, the 2022 Gladiator is meant to come on its own when it leaves its way behind.
The Rubicon is a rock climber from the Gladiator 2022 range, coming standard with an electronically removable anti-roll bar for optimal axle articulation.
This kind of context is also appropriate for the optional diesel engine whose maximum torque is achieved at a beautiful low of 1,400 rpm, allowing the driver to produce low-end thrust when climbing difficult slopes. Not that there’s anything wrong with the standard V6 petrol.
The Mojave is a desert runner, equipped with custom shock absorbers supplied by Fox, along with a Fox hydraulic front bumper. It is a type of secondary shock absorber. The Rubicon has the foam cell equivalent, but the hydraulic version in the Mojave can take more punishment and provide a better ride quality at the same time.
When the bandanas are removed and work clothes are put on, things are not so rosy. While the coil springs do their best to provide the most civilized ride quality possible, the Gladiator is a bit fidgety on the asphalt. The sound of the wind and tires are also constant companions at freeway speeds. Make sure the pros of buying a new Gladiator outweigh the cons.
Whatever plans exist for the cargo bed, the maximum payload is 1,700 pounds, which is also impressive for its class.
2023 Jeep Gladiator 2 Door: Will There Be A Two Door Jeep Gladiator
In that case, they didn’t want a small Jeep or a four-door Wrangler much more than a two-door model. So embrace digital creation, friends. They will likely be our only window into the world of compact Jeep trucks.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Interior Comfort
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator’s features such as manual windows, locks, and side mirrors plus the lack of power-adjustable seats can be an asset in their own right, as simpler equipment in the cab is designed to be sprayed (including drain plugs) will not be damaged by water.
There is seating for five, with a 3-seater bench in the back row. Beneath the back seat is a storage area and just behind it is where the optional Bluetooth speaker can be stored. 38.3 inches of rear legroom — better than the Ford Ranger, Toyota Tacoma, and Chevy Colorado.
You can choose a black or gray interior for your Jeep Gladiator. You might want to add a remote start to your Gladiator for $495, or a wireless Bluetooth speaker for $295.
An all-weather mud mat will cost you $165, or a hardtop headliner for $555. There are even smaller features, like interior relief handles and black door sill guards for $95 and $125, respectively. There’s also a Jeep Trail-Rated kit for $200.
Plus, there’s a package for the Cold Weather Group Gladiators that will cost $995 and get you remotely heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Track Rail Management System includes an alternator, inverter, AC outlet, and lockable under-seat storage, all for $895.
Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning are important safety features that you can buy for $795. The Additional Switch Group for $345 provides an alternator, maintenance-free battery, and additional switches. The tow trailer package adds $545 to the total cost of the Jeep Gladiator.
If you add every possible option to a fully loaded Gladiator High Altitude, it will cost you $61,415. That may be a hefty price to pay, but it’s not easy to find a Jeep Wrangler pickup, and especially one that comes with all of the above. If you want a fully loaded Jeep Gladiator.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Exterior Style
The cabin of the 2023 Jeep Gladiator is on par with the crew cab among other midsize pickups. It has four doors, all opening in the usual way. There is only one size bed.
And here’s a line you don’t usually hear when it comes to pickups: The windshield folds down. The door and top are also removable. The Jeep Gladiator has a soft top with a sunroof as standard; 3 pieces hardtop is in the options list.
The Sport trim comes with 17-inch steel wheels, which may suit many buyers — rock crawling can scrape a fine set of wheels. The Rubicon and Mojave have the largest fender flares to accommodate larger all-terrain tires. The Rubicon also has protective stone rails for the underside of the cab and bed.
Read next: 2023 Jeep Trackhawk: Next-Gen Jeep Trackhawk Looks Unbelievable
New Jeep Gladiator 2023 Favorite Features
- FOX SUSPENSION COMPONENT
After years of making high-end off-road vehicles, Jeep knows a lot about off-road hardware and puts that expertise into every new Gladiator. However, the company is also smart enough to know when to approach a highly respected third-party manufacturer for specialist equipment. That is why there is a Fox component in the Rubicon and Mojave models. - 3-POSITION TAILGATE
It’s just a nice little detail. Between the two open and closed positions there is a midpoint, where the tailgate cable leaves it partially open. Items that may be slightly longer than 5 feet — like wood or sheets of drywall — can still fit.
Standard Features
The Sport trim is the most affordable and most basic of the 2023 Jeep Gladiator. It comes with a pair of tow hooks at the front, one tow hook at the back, air conditioning, upholstery, and a start button.
The infotainment system is based on a relatively small 5-inch screen, with Bluetooth, one USB port, and additional audio input.
The driver assistance feature is optional. Among the mandatory elements are traction/stability control, airbags, and rearview camera.
The Overland comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, power windows/locks, tinted glass, heated mirrors, side steps, keyless entry, leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 115-volt power outlet, ambient footwell lighting, 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, satellite radio, and three other USB ports (two of which are USB-C).
The Rubicon has an electronically locked front differential, Fox suspension components, electronic disconnection of the sway bar, and other rear tow hooks. The Mojave adds an electronic locking rear differential and extra Fox parts.
Factory Option
All versions of the 2023 Jeep Gladiator are eligible for automatic transmission, LED headlights, remote start, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, 9-speaker/552-watt Alpine audio system, detachable Bluetooth speakers, forward collision warning, blind spots monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and rear parking sensors.
Options for the cargo bed include a spray-in liner, 115-volt outlet, adjustable straps, and a roll-up tonneau cover. A Class IV trailer hitch is also offered throughout the range.
The Overland, Rubicon, and Mojave models qualify for a very useful off-road front-facing camera, a body-tone 3-piece hardtop, auto-dimming mirrors, navigation, SiriusXM traffic updates, and an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Winch-capable heavy-duty steel front bumper with removable end caps is offered with the Rubicon.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Colors
Finally, the exterior colors that the 2023 Jeep Gladiator expects to start with: the limited edition Nacho and Gecko have increased, as has the Billet Silver, which was replaced by the Silver Zenith.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Engine
The standard engine in the 2023 Jeep Gladiator if nothing else changes is the highly regarded 3.6 liter V6 used in many Jeep/Chrysler/Dodge vehicles. That makes 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, as is a 4-wheel drive with a high/low transfer case. 8-speed automatic transmission is optional.
Unless someone buys the Mojave version, there’s an alternative to the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 diesel that’s only connected to an automatic transmission. It develops 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.
This Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy estimate is from 2021, but we don’t expect any changes.
- 3.6-liter V6
- 285 horsepower @ 6,400 rpm
- torque 260 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
- EPA city/highway Fuel economy: 16/23 mpg (manual), 17/22 mpg (auto)
- 3.0 liter diesel V6
- 260 horsepower @ 3,600 rpm
- torque 442 lb-ft @ 1,400-2,800 rpm
- EPA city/highway Fuel economy: 22/28 mpg (Sport, Overland), 21/27 mpg (Rubicon)
2023 Jeep Gladiator Trim
The New 2023 Jeep Gladiator comes in a variety of trim levels. There are ten options, the most luxurious of which is the Jeep Gladiator High Altitude. High Altitude starts at $53,445. From there the price can go up depending on what option you choose.
For example, if you select Front-facing Tracking Camera, it will add $595. These features include a camera that displays an image in front of the Gladiator on the interior Uconnect touchscreen.
While the 2023 Jeep Gladiator comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, you can upgrade to a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine with a start-stop for $4,000. The 8HP75 8-speed automatic transmission adds $2,000.
You can also choose to lock the lug nuts for an additional $65. The 2022 Jeep Gladiator comes as standard with 20-inch gloss black aluminum-alloy wheels and all-season tires.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Price
The official price list hasn’t been announced yet but our forecast for the 2023 Jeep Gladiator is a significant upgrade starting from if you want the Dual-Top Group package, you’ll get the ability to change peaks in the Gladiator with the seasons.
According to Jeep, this package includes a hardtop and a soft top. This costs an additional $1,200. Additionally, you can choose to add a mesh sunbonnet or solid sunbonnet, for $150 and $250, respectively.
If you choose the Dual-Top Group plan, you will have to make a cover selection. These include a rollaway bed cover for $595, a soft trifold cover for $625, or a hard trifold cover for $995.
Additionally, you can choose to add a windshield with Corning Gorilla glass for $195. There’s also a spray-on Mopar Bedliner you can add to your 2022 Jeep Gladiator for $495.
Someone in the Jeep drank too much coffee. There are 10 different versions of the 2022 Gladiator, most of which are sub-trims of the base Sport model.
There is the old Sport, Willys Sport, Sport S, Willys, Texas Trail, and Altitude. That’s crazy.
The manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the plain old Sport is $36,315, plus the destination fee. The sub-trim comes to around $41,000.
Overland starts at nearly $44,500, with the High Altitude sub-trim about $7,000 on top of that. The Rubicon and Mojave models both start at $47,260.
The automatic transmission is an extra $2,000. The diesel engine is $4,000, which necessitates the selection of an automatic transmission as well. Any of the top Gladiator versions with many options can exceed $61,000.
Most midsize trucks start at a price below the 2022 Gladiator but don’t come equipped comparably. Looking at its off-road-focused competitors, the Chevrolet Colorado Z71 starts at almost $40K, as does the GMC Canyon AT4.
The Ford Ranger XLT with 4-wheel drive and Tremor package is just over $37K. And a Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road with 4 wheel drive for almost $38K. It’s a similar story to the new Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Crew Cab.
Before buying, check the Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are paying for their new Gladiators. Now in its third year of existence, information on Gladiator’s resale value is still being studied.
But the Jeep Wrangler does well in this regard, especially the 4-door Unlimited version, so we’d be surprised if the Gladiator wasn’t as impressive.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Release Date
The Configurator 2023 Jeep Gladiator isn’t live yet at the time of writing, but it’s seen from open orders and last year’s production will likely be slated to start in late November next year.
