All-new Jeep® Gladiator: the most capable Jeep brand pickup ever 21.06.2022: Legendary 4x4 capability and authentic design builds on rich Jeep® brand’s pickup heritage to create the 2022 Jeep Gladiator. Offering clever functionality and versatility, an advanced fuel-efficient powertrain, and open-air freedom, the Gladiator is also

Legendary 4x4 capability and authentic design builds on rich Jeep® brand’s pickup heritage to create the 2022 Jeep Gladiator. Offering clever functionality and versatility, an advanced fuel-efficient powertrain, and open-air freedom, the Gladiator is also loaded with safety features and intuitive technology to make it a compelling bakkie for the South African market.

•    Legendary capability with Command-Trac and Rock-Trac 4x4 systems, third-generation Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, segment-exclusive electronic sway-bar disconnect and off-road tyres.

o   Up to 800mm of water fording



•    Double cab configuration features a durable five-foot steel bed with covered external power source and strong integrated tie-downs, providing versatility for flexible cargo options


•    Modern, authentic design instantly recognisable as a Jeep:

o   Iconic keystone-shaped grille, round headlamps and square tail lamps

o   Rugged-yet-distinguished design bolsters aerodynamics

o   Convenient fold-down windshield for off-road purists

o   The only true open-air 4x4 pickup truck with easy-to-use premium soft top and hardtop

o   Dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations



•    Lightweight, high-strength aluminium doors, hinges, hood, fenders, windshield frame and tailgate help curtail weight and boost fuel economy


•    Suspension tuned to optimise on-road handling and ride comfort without sacrificing off-road capability, payload or towing capability


•    Advanced fuel-efficient powertrain, tried and tested in the Jeep Wrangler: 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 engine with Engine Stop-Start (ESS) mated to eight-speed automatic transmission


•    Fourth-generation Uconnect system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 8.4-inch touchscreen with pinch-and-zoom capability




The all-new Jeep Gladiator – the most capable Jeep pickup ever – builds on a rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks with a robust combination of rugged utility, authentic Jeep brand design, open-air freedom, clever functionality and versatility, advanced fuel-efficient powertrain, superior on- and off-road dynamics, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features.



“Unquestionably a double cab and instantly recognisable as a Jeep, the all-new Gladiator is the ultimate vehicle for any outdoor adventure,” said Leslie Ramsoomar, Managing Director of Stellantis South Africa. “There has been tremendous demand for this unique vehicle from our loyal Jeep customers and double cab buyers all over the world. South Africans’ affinity to pickups or bakkies is well established and we believe Gladiator offers them a true lifestyle alternative in this popular segment.”


Born from a rich and proud heritage of tough, dependable Jeep brand pickup trucks, Gladiator combines rugged utility, versatility and functionality resulting in the most capable Jeep brand pickup truck eve



r. The all-new Jeep Gladiator delivers legendary capability with composed on-road driving dynamics and passenger safety courtesy of the Command-Trac and Rock-Trac 4x4 systems, third-generation Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, segment-exclusive sway-bar disconnect and off-road tyres.


The Jeep Gladiator is available in one model derivative in South Africa, the Rubicon, filled with every available feature the pickup has to offer to meet the demands of local customers.





Modern take on authentic Jeep design



The all-new Jeep Gladiator boasts a rugged, distinguished design aesthetic that is immediately recognisable with traditional Jeep design cues.


The Jeep design team kept the legendary seven-slot grille seen on Wrangler, but widened the grille slots for additional air intake to assist with the increased towing capacity. The top of the keystone-shaped grille is gently swept back to enhance aerodynamics.


Gladiator Rubicon features LED headlamps and fog lamps that project crisp white lighting, adding to the truck’s modern look. Daytime running lights, which form a halo around the outside perimeter of the headlights also highlight the traditional Jeep face, with indicators positioned on the front of the trapezoidal wheel flares.


From behind, traditional square tail lamps feature LED lighting and give way to a wide tailgate opening for unobstructed loading of cargo into the bed. The tailgate is damped and capable of stopping in three positions, while cargo is easily secured with a power-locking tailgate.


Clever functionality and versatility were the focus while designing the Gladiator’s durable bed to streamline usability. Under-rail bed lighting, and strong integrated tie-downs, provide durability and versatility. The Trail Rail Cargo Management System provides additional storage options to organise and secure cargo.


The full-size spare tyre and mount is located under the bed, behind the rear axle and capable of holding up to a 35-inch tyre.


The Gladiator’s load bed is lined with a special scratch-resistant layer and a roll-up rigid loading cover.


A four-bolt design at the top of the windshield’s frame allows for the windscreen to fold down quickly and easily. A header bar connects the A-pillars and stays in place even when the windscreen is folded down. This allows the rearview mirror to remain in place even with the windscreen folded.


Lightweight, high-strength aluminium doors feature the Torx bit size stamped directly onto the hinge to eliminate guessing which size bit is needed to remove the doors. A tool kit with the necessary Torx bits to remove the doors and lower the windscreen is provided as standard equipment.  


 
Gladiator also features body-colour sport bars, which are welded to the body and feature integrated grab handles for front occupants.


A premium Sunrider soft top provides a segment-exclusive easy open-air option, which helps to quiet wind noise and allows for access to partial and full open top positions. The soft top features retainers that slide into a track for easy rear window removal.


There is also a black three-piece hardtop which offers even more options for open-air driving. The two Freedom panels and quick-release latches enable a fast removal and installation of the hardtop. The hardtop features a manual rear-sliding window.


Dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations allow for endless configuration possibilities.





Authentic interior design boasts premium features and technology


The new Jeep Gladiator’s interior combine’s authentic styling, versatility, comfort and intuitive feature use. Precision craftsmanship and high-quality materials are found throughout the cabin.
 


The heritage-inspired centre stack features a clean, sculpted form that complements the horizontal dashboard design. A hand-wrapped instrument panel features a soft-touch surface with accent stitching. Functional features, including climate and volume control knobs, media charging and connectivity ports, and Engine Stop Start (ESS) control are all sculpted for quick recognition and are easily within reach of the front-seat occupants. Inboard and outboard circular HVAC vents are surrounded by a platinum chrome bezel for a precise and premium yet rugged appearance with full functionality.


Jeep functionality and versatility are celebrated in the centre console and distinguished with metal-plated accents. The centre console houses gear shift selection, transfer case and parking brake. Real bolts featured on the shifter, grab handles and the infotainment screen’s frame highlight genuine construction methods.



A push-button starter, featuring a weather-proof surround, is standard on the Gladiator and is easily located within the driver’s reach.


Leather-contoured seats feature accent stitching and adjustable bolster and lumbar support. Available comfort features include heated front seats and steering wheel.


All-new rear seats feature high-quality premium materials giving the seats an athletic look that also delivers comfort and support. The rear seats, exclusive to Gladiator, feature segment-leading rear legroom and use a unique design that can be locked in place to provide secure storage behind the seat back. The rear seats can be folded flat to access cab-back storage and provide a load floor for larger items.


With the rear seats folded flat, LED lights on the quarter trim panels illuminate the storage space behind the seats. Two storage nets on the cab-back wall provide even more secure storage.


Clever storage solutions are found throughout the Gladiator, including durable mesh pockets that extend the entire length of the doors and numerous phone storage areas.



The rear seat cushions can fold up into “stadium” position to reveal a standard open storage bin, which utilises the space under the seat for stowing miscellaneous items. An optional lockable bin provides secure storage space when the top or doors are removed. The available lockable storage bin features two different size doors that correspond to the 60/40 split rear seat cushion. Removable dividers can provide up to five separate compartments and uses the same lock as the glove box and centre console.



A removable bolt bin fits in the under-seat storage space and makes it easy to secure bolts when the doors and top are removed, or the windshield is folded down. The bolt bin lid indicates the corresponding number of bolts and their location under the lid in Petroglyph style.


 
The driver and front passenger vinyl-wrapped door-trim panels are soft to the touch. Lift-Assist handles under each door armrest feature an integrated pull-cup design that makes door removal quick and easy. Convenience features include passive entry with Keyless Go.



The instrument cluster an available 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) information LED display. The 7-inch LED display allows the driver to configure information in more than 100 ways, including current media being played, tyre pressure, tyre-fill alert or digital speed readout. Integrated buttons on the steering wheel control audio, voice and speed functions, allowing the driver to keep hands on the wheel at all times.



An 8.4-inch touchscreen houses the fourth-generation Uconnect system and sits prominently atop the centre stack. The fourth-generation Uconnect system enhances the user interface and system performance with quicker startup times and improved screen resolution. Directly below the touchscreen are functional features, such as climate and volume control knobs and media connectivity ports.



Two USB ports and a USB-C port up front and two in reach of occupants in the back seat connect to the media centre. Optional audio upgrades include a subwoofer and portable wireless speaker located behind the rear seat. LED lights on quarter-trim panels illuminate the storage space and the docking station for the wireless speaker. A net on the left side of the cab wall provides additional storage when equipped with the subwoofer and wireless speaker.
 





Advanced fuel-efficient powertrains


The all-new Jeep Gladiator offers the proven 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine delivering 209kW and 347Nm of torque and features ESS as standard equipment. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque, an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading.
 


Known for its refinement, power, efficiency and adaptability, the Company has produced more than 8.6 million 3.6-litre V6 Pentastar engines since production began in 2010. The award-winning engine family is currently built at three plants – Trenton (Michigan) Engine Complex, Mack Avenue (Detroit) Engine and Saltillo (Mexico) South Engine.




The Jeep Gladiator benefits from the popular V6 engine’s low-range torque, which is needed when out on the trails or during demanding conditions, such as hauling cargo or towing a trailer.
 



Eight-speed automatic transmission


The Jeep Gladiator offers an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to optimise engine output while on the trails or enjoying smooth, efficient power delivery at highway speeds.



Gladiator’s eight-speed automatic transmission offers a responsive driving experience. Whether commuting during the week or rock crawling or hauling cargo on the weekend, customers will enjoy a smooth, linear power delivery and improved fuel efficiency.
 


A unique set of two overdrive ratios improve open road fuel economy and reduce overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels.


Uniquely suited to the requirements of the Gladiator Rubicon model, the eight-speed automatic transmission delivers a 77.2:1 crawl ratio. The towing and 4x4 performance benefits from a 4.7:1 first gear ratio coupled with a 4.1:1 final drive.


Selec-Speed Control is standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission and manages vehicle speed in "4LO" while traversing off-road terrain without requiring throttle or brake input, allowing the driver to focus on steering. Selec-Speed Control is activated using a button on the dashboard and can be adjusted from 1-8km/h simply by using the AutoStick shift control.  
 



Most capable Jeep pickup ever without compromise


The all-new Jeep Gladiator delivers legendary off-road capability. The Rock-Trac 4x4 system features heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a “4LO” ratio of 4:1. A 4.10 front and rear axle ratio is standard as are Tru-Lok locking differentials.


Gladiator Rubicon models offer improved articulation and total suspension travel with help from a segment-exclusive electronic sway-bar disconnect. With the standard eight-speed automatic transmission, the Rubicon has an impressive crawl ratio of 77.2:1 making scaling any obstacle on the trail easy.


Rock-Trac also offers full-time torque management, enabling optimal grip in low-traction conditions.
 


Gladiator Rubicon receives a Trail Rated badge thanks to legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, which includes features such as:


•    Rock-Trac 4x4 system with a “4LO” ratio of 4:1 and Tru-Lok locking differentials standard on Rubicon models


•    Skid plates and front and rear tow hooks


•    Rear steel heavy-duty off-road rear bumper and available front steel winch-ready bumper with removable end caps


•    Approach angle of 43.6 degrees, breakover angle of 20.3 degrees, departure angle of 26 degrees and ground clearance of 249 mm (to the rear Diff)


•    Up to 800 mm of water fording


•    Up to 2721 kg towing and 693kg 4x4 payload capacity





Rugged body-on-frame design is the foundation for legendary Jeep brand truck utility and durability



The Jeep Gladiator uses a variety of ways to optimise ride, handling and sound characteristics while bolstering fuel economy even while towing. With a body-on-frame design and featuring a superbly engineered five-link suspension system, Gladiator delivers on capability, with composed on-road driving dynamics and passenger safety.


Gladiator’s body-on-frame design uses advanced materials and engineering to be lightweight, yet stiff and durable, and features a lightweight, high-strength steel frame. When compared to Jeep Wrangler 4-door, Gladiator’s frame is an additional 787mm longer while the wheelbase is 493mm longer.



The longer wheelbase and the bed’s positioning centre behind the rear axle centreline enables for better weight distribution and a more comfortable and composed ride when carrying cargo. The prop shaft, brake, fuel lines and exhaust system were lengthened to accommodate the changes needed to make the proven body-on-frame design work with the most capable Jeep truck ever.


A traditional steel bed incorporates four steel cross-members to reinforce the load floor while the aluminium tailgate is damped. Utility and versatility are maximised with strong integrated tie-downs, under-rail bed lighting and a covered external power source.


To protect critical vehicle components while on the trail, including the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan, Gladiator employs four skid plates and bars. Rubicon models benefit from the use of heavy gauge tubular steel rock rails to curtail potential body damage inflicted while out on the trail. Rubicon models also feature segment-exclusive rock rails for the bed corners.


The use of lightweight, high-strength aluminium closures, including the doors, door hinges, hood, fender flares, windscreen frame and tailgate, help curtail weight and boost fuel economy. Other ways the Jeep brand’s engineering team looked to manage weight included using hollow track and stabiliser bars, aluminium engine mounts and steering gear.


Gladiator uses the proven five-link coil suspension configuration with the front suspension using a lateral control arm and four longitudinal control arms. Full-width track bars made of forged steel control lateral movement of the axle with minimal angle change during suspension travel.
 


The rear five-link coil suspension design, exclusive to Gladiator, features two upper and two lower forged steel control arms for longitudinal control, and a track bar for lateral axle control. The control arms are located under the frame rails while the rear shocks are forward facing to provide consistent damping for ride comfort and load management.


The springs have been tuned for an optimum balance between on-road handling while providing a comfortable ride around town, with or without cargo in the bed, and legendary off-road capability. Ride comfort, body-roll control, handling, payload and towing capability is significantly enhanced with assistance from shock tuning, hard points and body mount strategy.


An approach angle of 43.6 degrees, breakover angle of 20.3 degrees, departure angle of 26 degrees and a ground clearance of 249mm allows Gladiator to go anywhere.


Gladiator also benefits from up to 800mm of water fording, up to 693 kg of payload and up to  2712 kg of towing capacity with the available Max Towing Package.




More than 80 available advanced safety and security features

Safety and security were paramount in the development of the Jeep Gladiator, which offers more than 80 available active and passive safety and security features. Available features include Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, standard ParkView rear back-up camera with dynamic grid lines, Adaptive Cruise Control and electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation.




Fourth-generation Uconnect system delivers advanced technology


The Jeep Gladiator features Uconnect 8.4NAV, delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features drivers and passenger’s desire, including a full-colour LED instrument cluster.



The Uconnect system includes easy-to-use features, enhanced processing power, faster startup times and touchscreens that display high-resolution graphics.



Apple CarPlay


Seamlessly integrates an iPhone with the vehicle’s built-in display and controls in addition to featuring Siri Voice control. IPhone-equipped drivers can make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, and receive voice-guided navigation optimised for traffic conditions and more, while staying focused on the road.



Android Auto


System shares useful information when driving and makes it easy to access the best of Google technology. Featuring Google Maps with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information and lane guidance, as well as on-demand access to 30 million songs with Google Play Music, the ability to place phone calls or send and receive messages while keeping hands on the wheel and ask Google search any question, Android Auto makes it easy to access popular apps and content from the Uconnect system’s touchscreen.    




Rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep brand trucks


The Gladiator is the latest iteration in a long line of Jeep brand trucks that began back in 1947 when Willys Overland introduced a one-ton truck with four-wheel drive based on the CJ-2A. With more than 40 years of rich heritage to draw from, Gladiator is the latest in a long line of Jeep trucks that includes:  


•    Jeep Pickup: 1947-1965
A 118-inch wheelbase pickup that realised few product changes. It was Willys-Overland’s first attempt to diversify the Jeep brand from the CJ.


•    Jeep FC-150/170 Pickup: 1957-1965
These Forward-Control series Jeep vehicles were essentially work trucks – with an 81-inch wheelbase for the FC-150 and 103.5 inches for the FC-170. They received few changes during their lifecycle, though some 1959 and 1960 models featured full-floating front and rear axles, and some FC-170 models included dual rear wheels and a four-speed manual transmission.


•    Jeep Gladiator/J-Series Pickup: 1963-1987
Resembling the Wagoneer, Gladiator debuted in 1963 in either 120-inch (J-200) or 126-inch (J-300) form and featured a Dana 20 transfer case and Dana 44s front and rear. The Gladiator name was dropped in 1972.


•    Jeep CJ-8 Scrambler: 1981-1985
Introduced in 1981, the Scrambler was a Jeep similar to the CJ-7, but with a longer wheelbase. Known internationally as the CJ-8, it was available in either hard- or soft-top versions. Less than 30,000 Scramblers were built and are extremely popular among collectors today.


•    Jeep Comanche (MJ): 1986-1992
Based on the Cherokee platform and similarly equipped, the pickup received a six-foot bed in 1987. Later models offered Selec-Trac® or Command-Trac four-wheel drive.



Retail Price: R 1,259,900
Maintenance Plan: 3yr/100,000 Km
Warranty Plan: 5yr/100,000 Km




Lesley Sutton - photos quickpic.co.za