When a new Jeep Gladiator pickup truck arrived for 2018, it was like the return of an old friend. Having debuted in 1963 and died in 1992, when it was known as the Comanche, its revival made its absence seem absurd. But that was then and this is now. So, for 2024, the modern Jeep Gladiator receives its first serious refresh, although you can be forgiven if you don’t notice. Visually, all that it receives is a redesigned seven-slot grille and seven fresh wheel designs. Hey, why mess with an icon more than you have to?
But then there are the interior treats, some of which you would never expect, such as new 12-way power front seats that have been tested for water fording. Buyers also get more standard equipment on all trim levels.
Offered in Sport, Willys, Mojave and Rubicon models, the 2024 Jeep Gladiator’s restyled instrument panel is anchored by a new 12.3-inch touchscreen running Unconnect 5 software and a new bracket on top of the dash for mounting electronics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot can connect up to eight wireless devices. Notably, Jeep is offering a new option dubbed Jeep Adventure Guides, which offers detailed maps for 62 Jeep-approved trails, including the Rubicon Trail in California, Hell’s Revenge in Utah and Jericho Mountain in New Hampshire. Jeep also offers an upgrade that provides more than 3,000 trails, all available on your Jeep’s touchscreen.
As before, the Gladiator is available with four 4×4 systems, with either part-time or full-time transfer case and low range ratio of as much as 4:1, and an 84:1 crawl ratio in Rubicon trim. The Gladiator fords up to 31.5 inches of water, has 11.5-inches of ground clearance, can tow up 7,700 pounds and boasts a 1,725-pound payload.
Power remains unchanged, with Chrysler’s familiar 3.6-liter V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission or available 8-speed automatic transmission.
For 2024, Jeep is offering two new trim packages for Gladiator, including the Mojave X and Rubicon X that group popular options into one package.
“The new 2024 Jeep Gladiator epitomizes the power of the Jeep community and how it continues to push for greater capability, advanced technology and more refinement,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep brand in North America. “The new Gladiator makes the best even better.”
