Jeep Gladiator

The first real drive

- Rick Péwé

Yes, it’s here. And yes, it’s all Jeep. Make no mistake—this is truly the most capable midsize truck produced in America. Those may be bold words, but as far as 4x4s go, only the Gladiator offers front and rear locking diffs and 4:1 transfer case gearing options, as well as the option to become a full convertible by removing the doors and windshield. With a top tow rating of 7,650 pounds for non-Rubicon models (and 7,000 pounds for a Rubi), the corresponding 1,600-pound payload is the sweet spot of the market. Naysayers may chant nasty epithets about who needs such a truck, considering that the Tacoma, Ranger, and Colorado dominate the segment. There is nothing smaller than a Ram 1500 in the FCA stable, until now. And it’s true: If you need to tow more than 7,650 pounds on a daily basis, you should be getting into a Ram and towing to your heart’s delight. However, you won’t be wheeling as well as the Gladiator or be on the same trails with your full-size behemoth, ripping off front valances and dragging rockers and bumpers through the rocks and slop.