What do you call a vehicle that delivers a serious punch when it comes to adventure? The Jeep Gladiator. With daring capability and advanced utility, the Jeep Gladiator lands as a mighty contender in the mid-sized pickup lineup. In this 2022 Jeep Gladiator guide, I will comprehensively review the 2022 Jeep Gladiator, consider its pros and cons, and see how it offers a unique experience from its competitors.
Bottom Line Up Front
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator as a mid-sized, off-road pickup truck nails trailblazing with its hardware, and adventure with its open-air freedom; and even though there are better alternatives when it comes to value for money (like the Jeep Wrangler), the Jeep Gladiator offers an experience like no other.
Overview
Formerly introduced back in 2018 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the Jeep Gladiator went on sale in April 2019; and has been a hit ever since. Based on the Jeep Wrangler, the Gladiator gives Jeep fans more utility with the 5-feet bed and towing capacity. Granted it’s a 5-seater with average bed space and interior room, but it does offer the thrill and excitement that the Jeep brand is known for.
Here’s all you need to know about Jeep Gladiator’s Towing Capacity.
New for 2022
For the model year 2022, the Jeep Gladiator gets several added features. The Jeep Air Filtration System is now standard on all models, whereas half doors, off-door mirror kit, Sunrider flip top for hardtop, and corning gorilla glass windshield are now available as options.
Regarding utility, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator offers the maximum gas towing of 7650 pounds, which also happens to be the best-in-class in the mid-size pickup truck segment. The 7650-pound towing is achieved with the help of a must-have add-on package that integrates Dana 44 wide-track axles, a 240-amp alternator, wide fender flares, a Class 4 hitch receiver, trailer hitch zoom, heavy-duty engine cooling system, a 4.10:1 axle ratio, a gross-vehicle-weight-rating of 6250 pounds, and Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential.
Unfortunately, you can only enjoy this on the Sport S and Sport trims with the required 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine coupled with the 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator also manages to have the best-in-class payload capacity of 1700 pounds, based on its 60.3 by 56.8-inch bed, which is fit for holding enough stuff for your adventure accompanied by a 3-position tailgate, tonneau cover, available spray-in Bedliner and 115-volt auxiliary outlet.
Interesting Read: Comprehensive Guide to Jeep Gladiator Parts.
4X4 Technology
With 4×4 technology their main game, Jeep provides several 4×4 options on the Jeep Gladiator. From part-time to full-time 4×4 system, the Gladiator can be equipped with a range of options as per your desired requirements to give you the best off-roading experience. Let’s have a look at these options.
- Command-Trac 4×4 System: The Command-Trac 4×4 System provides part-time 4×4 capability, which divides torque equally between the rear and front axles with its low-range gear ratio of 2.72:1. This system can smoothly shift at speeds up to 45 mph and comes as standard on the Mojave, Overland and Sport trim.
- Selec-Trac Full-Time 4×4 System: Better at off-roading, the Selec-Trac Full-Time 4×4 System, with its active 4×4 transfer case provides continuous and optimum traction at all surface conditions by sending torque to wheels that are better planted on the surface. Equipped with Smart Lock feature, the system automatically engages when it detects slippery or off-road conditions. This system comes as an optional upgrade on the Mojave, Overland, and Sport trims.
- Rock-Trac 4×4 System: A part-time 4×4 system but with a more powerful 4:1 low-gear ratio allows the Gladiator to crawl at lower speeds but with greater traction and control through more torque delivered at each wheel. This system is standard on the Rubicon trim.
- Rock-Trac Full-Time 4×4 System: The Rock-Trac Full-Time 4×4 System adds a full-time 4×4 active transfer case to your Gladiator, allowing you to master any terrain through Jeep’s most powerful 4×4 system.
Although the part-time 4×4 system is also available in other SUVs, the Gladiator’s full-time 4×4 system provides an edge over conventional setups; the part-time 4×4 system has two differentials, one at the rear and one at the front, whereas the full-time 4×4 system adds another differential at the center of these two to power the wheel with the most grip.
While a part-time 4×4 system should only be engaged when going off-road, a full-time 4×4 system can be used without any restrictions due to the added differential. This is a key feature that is not available in most pickup trucks.
Moreover, the Jeep Gladiator also comes with standard and available off-road-aligned features to keep you moving no matter what terrain you are crawling on. Besides skid plates and rock rails for added protection, you get steel bumpers, a front-facing trail cam, real-time suspension data, tow hooks, a winch, and a Bedliner for convenience on your adventures.
Interesting Guide: How to Find the Best Gladiator Rear Bumpers.
Imagine crawling through a beaten path; you keep your eyes peeled for the best way to cross the terrain as you steer away your Gladiator, but you also hold the brakes, press the accelerator, and engage/disengage the clutch while having your hand on the handbrake for added control, stressful isn’t it?
Relax, sip away your Redbull and let the Selec-Speed Control take control which automatically regulates the vehicle speed from 0.6 mph to 5 mph on tough terrains without needing any brake or throttle input from you. Now you can completely give your attention to maneuvering the vehicle while this system takes care of the braking, torque, and traction.
And if you just want to enjoy the environment instead of driving your Gladiator, you can switch the Off-Road+ mode on; it automatically identifies the type of terrain you are driving on and regulates the throttle, traction control, transmission shift mode, and Selec-Speed Control for the best performance. When you turn it on at 4-LO, this system operates to provide the optimum rock-crawling performance, while at 4-Hi, this system is programmed for performing on the sand.
The Jeep Gladiator gets its true off-roading power and stability from the electronically-locking differentials situated at the front and rear to maintain the ultimate traction. Coupled with the automatically disconnecting sway bar system, the Gladiator achieves 30% more suspension travel in 4-Hi and 4-Lo modes. And as soon as you start moving at speeds above 18 mph, the sway bar automatically reconnects.
The Jeep Gladiator also provides plenty of cargo management and utility options for you to secure your stuff and keep your tools powered no matter where you are camping. From lockable under-seat storage and bed rails with tie-down sliders to a 240-amp alternator and 400-Watt inverter, the Gladiator stages victory in the stadium.
Badges
Badges? Oh, Jeep does badges on its vehicles to endorse their signature performance vehicles. Jeep does two kinds of badging; Trail Rated and Desert Rated. While vehicles with these badges have similar capabilities, they are finely tuned to target their respective terrains.
- Trail-Rated: The Trail-Rated badge shows that the Gladiator is tuned with maximized articulation, high ground clearance along with top departure, break-over and approach angles, water fording ability, and the best maneuverability and traction.
- Desert-Rated: The Desert-Rated badge signifies suspension tuned to confront the sand without breaking control and comfort, managing power with confidence over unpredictable surfaces, high ground clearance, responsive handling, and prowess over unforgiving heat and dust.
Jeep’s signature feature, which is the removable doors and top, turns your journey into an adventure. Carry all your stuff in the bed while you enjoy the wind and let the sunshine pour inside with the open-air freedom.
A Wild Adventure
Designed for the best open-air experience, the removable tops are divided into three types. The premium Sunrider Soft Top, the standard Sunrider Soft Top, or the optional Sunrider Flip Top for Hardtop.
The Sunrider Soft Top comes as standard on all Gladiator trims. It consists of a black, heavy-duty, waterproof cloth material and a zipperless design. The spring-loaded supports allow the top to glide open easily. The Premium Sunrider Soft Top just uses a higher quality of fabric.
The Freedom Top Modular Hardtop consists of three hard panels and is available in black as well as body color. You can either remove the front two panels to let the sun in or remove all three panels for full open-air freedom. The Sunrider Flip Top for Hardtop adds convenience to the Freedom top by replacing it with an easy-to-operate soft top that closes and opens in seconds. Designed with premium quality materials, this Flip Top can be used year-round. The range of different tops allows you to configure outdoor freedom as per your wants.
Jeep is currently the only brand that features a foldable windshield, though you can get the removable doors and top with the Ford Bronco as well.
The quick-fold aluminum windshield allows you to feel the wind as you cruise through the trail, turning your journey into a wild adventure. Moreover, the aluminum-constructed lightweight full and half doors not only provide safety and fun but also provide convenience with updated features such as remote keyless entry, power locks, and power heated mirrors. And they are also available with an optional premium upper door, base upper door, or no upper door as per your needs.
A new doors-off mirror kit is now also available for greater utility when you have your doors removed. These mirrors also feature a quick-release mechanism to avoid damage in tight spots.
A Cozy Cabin
It’s not just off-roading Jeep cares about. You also get to have a wonderful interior as well. Although you have to pay extra for the nice little features which turn your interior into a cozy cabin, these things are worth it. Besides heated steering wheel, heated mirrors, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats, there is much more to explore in the Jeep Gladiator.
Imagine a chilled cabin in the melting summer or a warm and cozy interior in the freezing winter as you walk up to your Gladiator, which can be activated from up to 300 feet away; this is the future of luxury in the Jeep Gladiator.
Back in the era, Jeep used to provide just a vehicle that did nothing else than off-roading, but now with all the added technology, you feel like driving a grand 4×4 vehicle. Added features such as remote proximity keyless entry allow you to enter your Gladiator without handling your key fob. Once seated, you will find a 7-inch driver information display situated right at the center of the gauge cluster, which you can use to toggle between all the important vehicle data via steering controls.
You will also experience improved air quality inside the Gladiator achieved by Jeep’s all-new air filtration system, which removes 95% unwanted particulates and maintains the cabin air by removing bacteria, allergens, and pollen. This feature is extremely crucial for people with critical respiratory problems; I myself am allergic to dust and can say without a doubt how hard things can get.
Out in the wild, things are unpredictable, but you can now handle anything nature throws at you with Corning Gorilla Glass windshield, which is three times tougher than conventional glass and can handle unpredicted impacts during your adventure. You also need not worry about how much water your Jeep absorbs (as long as you are under the water fording limit) because your vehicle is designed with features such as a weather-proof start button and washable interior. What about the bolts from the windshield, doors, and top? Well, that fits in the covered compartment situated right under the rear seat.
And entertainment? Forget that dry old SUV Jeep used to be back in the dark ages; now it comes with a power-ready cabin with USB ports and power outlets placed throughout the interior for round-the-clock connectivity, plus additional exterior and interior auxiliary outlets for greater utility.
The Jeep Gladiator now also features a premium Alpine Audio System for a truly unique experience. Play it loud with a 552-Watt amplifier, an all-weather subwoofer, an overhead sound bar, and a nine-speaker setup. And if you want to take the fun along with you to the campsite, get the portable Bluetooth speaker; it’s not only dust and waterproof (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes max) but also comes with a USB port and an auxiliary cable for added utility.
The Jeep Gladiator is made for adventure, and that is why its cabin speaks for itself with its design intent. Inside, you will find pockets and bins placed throughout the interior to help you sort and manage your stuff; ipads, maps, and food. There is room for everything. Foldable rear seats allow you to store cargo without running short of space.
A lockable glove box, center console, and hidden storage behind the rear seats allow you to secure your stuff when the doors and top are removed. You can see how Jeep has managed to take care of all the situations a user will go through, which is why Jeep is the best in doing what it does.
Uconnect
Uconnect is Jeep’s connected vehicle service dedicated to providing entertainment, navigation, and communication accessible right from your infotainment touchscreen.
It offers many integrated applications, such as traffic updates, weather maps, plus sports scores, talk, comedy, SOS calls, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and voice command. You can also remotely lock/unlock your car from anywhere.
Confident Towing
The Jeep Gladiator integrates over 80 optional and standard features that help you navigate through all sorts of terrain and weather without compromising on safety. And safety is even more crucial when you are traveling over 60 miles per hour with a 4000-pound trailer attached to your back. At these moments, things can get out of hand when active safety systems, such as trailer sway damping and trailer brake control, step in to save the day.
The trailer sway damping system adjusts the brake pressure of individual wheels to provide control when terrain, crosswinds, and traffic become risky. At the same time, the trailer brake control allows you to regulate your trailer’s brake pressure and tune it to one which suits the terrain the best.
Driver Assist and Safety
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator integrates active safety and driver-assist features to ease your driving experience and keep you safe at all times. Blind-spot monitoring, hill-start assist, rear cross-path detection, rear parking assist system, collision warning, and electronic stability control combine to bring you peace of mind no matter where you are.
Furthermore, the Jeep Gladiator promises a strong yet lightweight chassis made from aluminum, high-strength steel, and front and side airbags for the front row to combine maximum safety. For protection against theft, you get a standard anti-theft engine immobilizer key which runs on a unique embedded code matched with your engine to secure it anywhere you park it.
You can also upgrade to an anti-tilt and ultrasonic security system, which alerts you when it detects any unauthorized movement, such as interior cabin motion, ignition, the opening of the hood, door, or tailgate, towing or wheel removal, and cutting battery wires.
Powertrain
While you can get the Jeep Wrangler in up to five different engine configurations, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator is only available in two; a 3.0-Liter EcoDiesel V6 and a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. Similarly, the transmission available is an 8-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual. While you can avail the 3.6-liter V6 in both transmission options, the 3-liter EcoDiesel V6 is only available with the 8-speed automatic.
While the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 provides the maximum torque at 442 pound-feet and 260 horsepower, the 3.6-liter V6 offers more horsepower at 285 ponies and 260-pound feet of torque. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel also offers a better fuel economy at 28 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg in the city, while the 3.6-liter V6 has a rated fuel economy of 23 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in the city.
Available Colors
You can get the 2022 Jeep Wrangler in up to 9 exciting colors:
1. Firecracker Red
2. Hydro Blue
3. Silver Zynith
4. Granite Crystal Metallic
5. Black
6. Snazzberry Pearl Coat
7. Bright White
8. Sarge
9. Sting-Gray
2022 Jeep Gladiator trims
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator comes in many trims, with each one having a distinct personality and taste. Let’s see what each one offers.
1. 2022 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
The Gladiator Mojave is Desert-Rated and designed for performing high-speed performance and off-road prowess in desert conditions. The Gladiator Mojave’s main standard features include:
- a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox and a 4.10 axle ratio
- Command-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System
- Tru-Lok rear locking differential
- a larger reinforced rear track bar
- Off-Road Plus mode
- Wider-track heavy-duty Dana 44 axles
- reinforced frame
- front axles with cast iron steering knuckles
- 1-inch front suspension lift kit
- FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers
- FOX 2.5-inch shocks
- skid plates for front suspension
- transfer case and fuel tank
- high-clearance Black front fender flares
- 33-inch all-terrain tires
- 17-inch aluminum rims
- 7-inch driver-info display
- 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen
- a 9-speaker 552-Watt Premium Alpine Audio System.
Along with many other optional features, the 8-speed automatic transmission, Selec-Trac Active On-Demand Full-Time 4×4 System, and 33-inch mud-terrain tires can be availed as per your requirement.
2. 2022 Jeep Gladiator High Altitude
Luxury meets the Gladiator on the High Altitude trim. Designed to turn heads with its sleek finish, the High Altitude trim’s main standard features include:
- Nappa-leather trimmed upholstery
- 20-inch gloss black painted aluminum rims
- a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and a 3.73 axle ratio
- Freedom Top
- Sport suspension
- Command-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System
- Cruise control
- heavy-duty wide-track Dana 44 axles
- all-season tires
- skid plates for the transfer case and fuel tank
- 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 7-inch driver-info display
- a 9-speaker 552-Watt Premium Alpine Audio System.
Available options include the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with 8-speed automatic transmission, Selec-Trac Active On-Demand Full-Time 4×4 System, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, and Remote Start System.
3. 2022 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon integrates top-of-the-line hardware to provide the best off-roading experience. This is the trim everyone wants to have. Notable standard features include:
- a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 coupled to a 6-speed manual gearbox and 4.10 axle ratio
- Rock-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System
- Tru-Lock front and rear locking differentials
- heavy-duty wide-track Dana 44 axles
- front sway bar disconnect system
- off-road plus mode
- 4:1 low-range transfer case
- FOX 2.0 monotube shocks with performance suspension
- 33-inch all-terrain tires
- 17-inch rims
- skid plates for transfer case and fuel tank
- 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 7-inch driver-info display
- a 9-speaker 552-Watt Premium Alpine Audio System.
Options include an 8-speed automatic transmission, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with a 3.73 axle ratio, Rock-Trac Active On-Demand Full-Time 4×4 System, 33-inch mud-terrain tires, and Remote Start System.
4. 2022 Jeep Gladiator Overland
The Gladiator Overland provides a balanced combination of interior and exterior features without compromising on 4×4 capability. Standard features include:
- a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with 6-speed manual transmission and 3.73 axle ratio
- Command-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System
- heavy-duty wide-track Dana 44 axles
- skid plates for the fuel tank and transfer case
- automatic halogen headlamps
- Sunrider soft top
- 18-inch aluminum rims
- all-season tires
- cruise control
- 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 7-inch driver-info display
- a 9-speaker 552-Watt Premium Alpine Audio System.
Optional features include the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with 8-speed automatic transmission and 3.73 axle ratio, Selec-Trac Active On-Demand 4×4 System, leather upholstery, and Trac-Lok limited-slip differential.
5. 2022 Jeep Gladiator Sport/Sport S
The Jeep Gladiator Sport is the base trim that comes with basic creature comforts. The Sport trim comes with:
- a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox and 3.73 axle ratio
- Command-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System
- heavy-duty wide-track Dana 44 axles
- highway-terrain tires
- air conditioning
- manual door and window locks
The Sport trim has deep-tint sunscreen windows, a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine with 8-speed automatic transmission and 3.73 axle ratio, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, and Freedom Top as available upgrades.
The Gladiator Sport S trim adds:
- body-color fender flares
- a leather-wrapped steering wheel
- power lock windows
- heated mirrors
- automatic headlamps r
- remote keyless entry
- security alarm
- a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Options for this trim include Selec-Trac Active On-Demand Full-Time 4×4 System, Alpine premium 552-watt 9-speaker audio system, 8.4-inch infotainment screen, 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine with 8-speed automatic transmission and 3.73 axle ratio, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, and Freedom Top.
6. 2022 Jeep Gladiator Willys Sport/Willys Sport S
The Gladiator Willys Sport trim reflects upon the original Willys jeep with its classic appearance yet enhanced capability. Standard features include:
- a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox and 3.73 axle ratio
- Command-Trac Part-Time 4×4 System
- heavy-duty Dana 44 axles
- heavy-duty rear and front shocks painted in red
- Trac-Lok limited-slip differential
- heavy-duty rock rails
- 17-inch rims
- 32-inch mud-terrain tires
- air-conditioning
- cruise control
Optional features include 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with 8-speed automatic transmission and 3.73 axle ratio, 8-speed automatic gearbox, and Freedom Top.
The Willy Sport S trim adds:
- body-color fender flares
- power locks, tailgate, and windows
- security alarm
- a leather-wrapped steering wheel
Available features for the Willy Sport S trim include a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with 8-speed automatic transmission and 3.73 axle ratio, Selec-Trac Active On-Demand Full-Time 4×4 System, 8-speed automatic gearbox, Alpine premium 552-watt 9-speaker audio system, Freedom Top, and an 8.4-inch infotainment screen.
After-market Customizations
The Jeep Gladiator can be upgraded as per your desires and requirements with hundreds of after-market parts available as per your dreams. The Jeep has partnered up with Mopar, which engineers and develops products designed especially for Jeep vehicles to increase 4×4 capability. LEDs, suspension, axles, bumpers; Mopar has it all. Outfit your Gladiator with a range of authentic accessories to reflect your taste without compromising on off-road prowess.
Warranty
As standard, the Jeep Gladiator comes with a fully transferrable 36000-mile/3-year basic limited warranty and a 60000-mile/5-year powertrain limited warranty.
Alternatives
1. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a midsize SUV designed to provide maximum off-road capability with its short wheelbase, high articulation, and outstanding hardware. Available with up to 5 engine configurations, the Jeep Wrangler excels in providing a better off-roading experience. It may not offer the utility of a bed, but if you are looking for maximum off-road capability, then the Wrangler is a better option.
Read also: How Does the Gladiator Compare to the Jeep Gladiator.
2. Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck with legendary reliability and durability. Available with a 3.5-liter V6 which pumps 365 pound-feet of torque and 278 horsepower, or the standard 2.7-liter inline-four, which makes 180 pound-feet of torque and 159 horsepower, the Tacoma provides a fuel economy of 24/19 mpg and 23/20 mpg respectively.
The V6 can be coupled with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic, whereas the inline-four is only available with the latter. Although the Tacoma offers great 4×4 capability with the TRD Pro trim, it lacks modern features. However, as a daily driver, the Tacoma offers better comfort than the Gladiator.
Check out the following guide to see how Tacoma compares to the Gladiator in-depth.
FAQs
Question: What is the top-of-the-line Gladiator?
Answer: In terms of luxury, the Jeep Gladiator High Altitude delivers the best creature comforts.
Question: What does Mojave mean on a Gladiator?
Answer: The Mojave is a Jeep Gladiator trim designed to withstand the scorching heat and punishing environment of the desert while providing high-speed, off-road capability.
Question: What does Mojave have that Rubicon doesn’t?
Answer: Although the Rubicon boasts better gearing for rock-crawling ability, the Mojave comes with a wider rear track, upgraded anti-roll bars, and a thicker rear axle.
Verdict
Our 2022 Jeep Gladiator guide shows us how well the Gladiator is equipped to tackle off-roading. As a midsized pickup truck, the Jeep Gladiator tops in the off-roading segment, with maximum approach, departure, and break-over angles of 44.7, 20.9, and 25.5 degrees, respectively; what more do you need? Moreover, its removable doors, top, and foldable windshield provide an unmatched open-air experience.
But ask yourself, do you really need a pickup truck for off-roading? Because you can achieve more with the Wrangler; it’s fun, more capable, and is particularly designed for off-roading; plus, it also offers a range of powertrain options and tons of optional aftermarket upgrades.
On the other hand, the Gladiator offers a minimum towing capacity of 4000 pounds which ranges to a maximum of 7650 pounds, whereas on the Wrangler, you can only get away with 3500 pounds.
Furthermore, the Gladiator is technically an off-road pickup truck that compromises on-road comfort due to a noisy cabin and stiff ride. You can say it’s designed for off-roading plus utility, but what market is that really? Pretty narrow.
If comfort is on your mind, then there are many other options to choose from that offer way more creature comforts. You can also see that most features on the Gladiator are only available through options, which means you will need to pay more for a fully loaded Gladiator. So go for the Gladiator if off-roading and utility are what you need. Otherwise, many other pickup trucks offer better handling, towing, and creature comforts.
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