2025 Jeep Gladiator Review: The Toughest, Most Upgraded Jeep Truck Yet

(Image Source: Stellantis media)

The 2025 Jeep Gladiator arrives with a confidence that feels earned rather than manufactured. This truck has always carried the weight of Jeep’s off-road legacy, but the new model tightens its attitude in a way that makes you look twice. It is still unmistakably a Gladiator, yet it feels more focused, more polished and better aligned with what modern truck buyers actually want. Jeep did not settle for new paint colours and marketing slogans. It took the bones of the original and sharpened the capability, comfort and digital features in a way that feels purposeful. There is a sense that Jeep wants the Gladiator to be more than a lifestyle accessory. It wants to be the adventure tool you rely on when the road vanishes and your plans get bold.

What’s New for 2025

Jeep did not throw changes around for show. The updates improve daily usability and bring the Gladiator closer to the expectations set by rivals that have leaned into comfort and tech.

Key updates

• Standard eight speed automatic transmission
• Standard power locks and power windows
• Fresh Fathom Blue and heritage inspired Olive Drab ‘41 paint
• Active Cabin Ventilation that pre cools the cabin through the Jeep Connect app
• Updated safety features
• 4xe plug in hybrid coming in 2025

Jeep is clearly preparing the Gladiator for the next decade. The push toward electrification follows industry shifts highlighted by Car and Driver and Wired, which have reported strong demand for plug in trucks that balance torque with lower running costs. The cabin improvements also signal that Jeep knows owners use this truck for workdays as much as weekends.

Design and Tough Truck Architecture

(Image Source: Stellantis media)

The Gladiator still looks like a wall of square edges and determination. Jeep knows this shape is part of the appeal, so it refined the details without diluting the character.

Highlights

• Classic seven slot grille
• Stealth windshield antenna
• Ten-wheel designs
• Tire sizes from 32 to 33 inches
• Folding windshield
• Multiple roof choices
• Removable doors
• Aluminium closures for reduced weight
• Reinforced steel cargo bed

In an industry where open air trucks have nearly vanished, the Gladiator stands out. Most brands dropped removable doors and folding windshields years ago because they did not fit the safety and comfort narrative. Yet off road communities, especially groups found on OverlandExpo.com, still argue that this feature adds engagement and visibility in technical terrain. Jeep remains the only brand willing to keep this freedom alive in a production pickup.

Engine & Performance Heart: 3.6-L Pentastar V6 Powerplant

(Image Source: Stellantis media)

Before diving into numbers and towing stats, it’s worth acknowledging why Jeep still trusts the Pentastar V6 to power the 2025 Gladiator. This engine has earned its reputation over years of hard use desert trails, rocky climbs, daily commuting, weekend towing and it continues to deliver the kind of dependable, predictable performance that Jeep owners rely on. It’s not trying to be the fastest or the flashiest; instead, it focuses on the things that matter: usable torque, durability, and a powerband tuned for real-world truck work.

Key Highlights:

• Proven 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 used across Jeep and Stellantis performance models
• 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque for balanced power delivery
• Standard 8-speed automatic transmission for smoother shifts and better control
• Strong low-end torque ideal for off-road climbing and towing
• Max towing capability of up to 7,700 pounds
• Max payload rating of up to 1,725 pounds in the proper configuration
• Works seamlessly with Jeep’s heavy-duty 4×4 systems and axle setups

Powertrain and Performance

(Image Source: Stellantis media)

Every Gladiator still runs the proven 3.6 litter Pentastar V6. It is not a headline grabbing engine, but it is predictable, durable and tuned for real trail control.

Core performance

• 285 horsepower
• 260 lb ft torque
• Max towing 7,700 pounds
• Max payload 1,725 pounds
• Up to 77:1 crawl ratio

Long term tests from MotorTrend and Edmunds highlight the Pentastar V6 as one of the most reliable engines in this class. Owners often mention the steady torque curve that helps during slow climbs, especially when towing midsized trailers or loading the truck with heavy camping setups.

Trim Levels Explained

Trim Levels Explained

Jeep splits the Gladiator lineup into simple groups. Some trims focus on everyday drivability, while others chase trail performance or desert speed.

Sport and Sport S

Entry level trims but still authentic Jeep hardware.

• Strong base 4×4 system
• Standard safety tech
• Big touchscreen
• Daily usability

Willys

A heritage inspired trim with meaningful capability.

• Tru Lok rear locker
• Off Road Plus mode
• Rock rails
• 32-inch mud terrain tires
• Tow package

Rubicon

Built for technical rock crawling.

• Rock Trac transfer case
• Lockers front and rear
• 4.10 axle ratio
• Sway bar disconnect
• Steel armour plates

Mojave

The only Desert Rated pickup on sale in the United States.

• FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks
• HYDRO jounce bumpers
• One inch suspension lift
• Rear locker
• High speed Off Road Plus mode

Mojave X and Rubicon X

More extreme hardware for serious adventurers.

• Off road camera
• Steel bumpers
• Full time transfer case

Jeep’s strategy mirrors what Ford does with the Ranger Raptor and the high output variants. Each model has a personality. Buyers are not forced into a single off-road style.

Interior and Technology

(Image Source: Stellantis media)

Jeep finally modernized the cabin. It still feels rugged, but this time it feels like a truck built for long drives rather than only weekend crawling.

Interior highlights

• Uconnect 5 system
• Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 12-way power seats
• Side curtain airbags
• Upgraded materials
• Active Cabin Ventilation option

The interior now feels competitive with the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. In some areas, such as screen size and app integration, Jeep overtakes both. The extra refinement reduces fatigue during long highway stretches, something owners have asked for on Jeep forums for years.

Safety and Trail Tech

The Gladiator blends mechanical strength with smart digital assistants.

Key features

• More than 85 safety features
• Adaptive cruise control with stop
• Built in Trails Offroad guides
• Upgradable catalogue with over 3,000 trails

Digital trail coaching is now a growing trend across the off-road world. Enthusiasts are using apps like Gaia GPS and OnX Offroad, so Jeep bringing similar features into the truck itself is a smart move.

The Challenge: Modern Trucks Are Losing Their Toughness

Most new pickups lean toward luxury and soft suspension tuning. Many end up great on road but compromised in unpredictable terrain.

Key issues

• Problem: Comfort first trucks lose real off-road strength
• Agitation: Owners report suspension fade and overheating during heavy trail use
• Solution: Gladiator’s Trail Rated and Desert Rated systems prioritize durability with hardware designed for long term abuse

Survey data from off road forums and consumer groups show growing frustration with trucks marketed as tough but engineered for suburban roads. The Gladiator fills that gap with authentic mechanical solutions.

Gladiator vs Rivals: How It Stands Out

The mid-sized pickup world is competitive. Yet the Gladiator offers something no rival attempts: open air freedom with Wrangler DNA.

Core competitors

• Toyota Tacoma
• Ford Ranger
• Chevrolet Colorado

Comparison Table

Specification Sheet

• Engine: 3.6 liter V6
• Power: 285 hp
• Torque: 260 lb ft
• Transmission: Eight speed automatic
• Tow rating: 7,700 lbs
• Payload: 1,725 lbs
• Tires: 32 to 33 inches
• Ground clearance: Up to 11.6 inches
• Approach angle: 44.7 degrees
• Breakover angle: 20.9 degrees
• Departure angle: 26 degrees
• Water fording: 31.5 inches
• Price: Starting around 39,000 USD

Key Technical Data

• Dana 44 heavy duty front and rear axles
• Four advanced 4×4 systems
• Rock Trac low range 4:1 ratio
• Selec Trac full time option
• FOX 2.5-inch shocks on Mojave
• Electronic sway bar disconnect
• Steel skid plates and rock rails

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 Jeep Gladiator reliable
Yes. The Pentastar V6 has a strong reliability record and is widely used across the Jeep and Dodge range.

Can it tow large trailers
It can. With 7,700 lbs max towing, it handles mid-sized campers and utility trailers well.

Is it good for daily driving
The new cabin upgrades make it easier to live with. Road manners are better than before.

Will the 4xe plug in hybrid be stronger
Jeep has not released full output numbers, but based on Wrangler 4xe data, expect strong torque.

Is it suitable for beginners in off roading
Yes. Features like Off Road Plus and built in trail guides make learning much easier.

Your Trusted Partner for Jeep Performance and Off-Road Readiness in the UAE

Owning a Jeep in the UAE means dealing with heat, sand, long distances and the occasional dune climb. MotorHub offers complete service support for Gladiator owners, including diagnostics, suspension checks, desert preparation, cooling system maintenance and accessory upgrades that match local conditions. If you drive a Jeep here, you need a workshop that understands what these trucks face in our environment, and MotorHub is ready to help.