A bit more capability and refinement, with some additional screen functionality and safety equipment. Here's the 2024 model refresh that everyone's looking at the 2024 Jeep Gladiator, which largely gets a cut-and-paste of almost everything refreshed on its Wrangler ancestor in response to that model's newfound Ford Bronco competition. But these are different models, so we'll review what's been updated on both and focus on the new unique things on the new Gladiator pickup.
Inside and Out Cosmetics
Outside, there's a new seven-slot grille, the removal of the whip antenna and integration into the windshield, plus seven new wheel designs. Inside is a new, reconfigured instrument panel with round outboard vents and a slim rectangular vent in the center to make room for a larger 12.3-inch LED display. It features full-array local-dimming (FALD) technology that makes it easier to see in direct sunlight—like when the roof is removed and the windshield is folded.
The display runs the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and, like the Wrangler, includes Jeep Adventure Guides software that displays Trails Offroad programming. This third-party app makes off-roading easier for beginners, by revealing the difficulty level in advance and providing turn-by-turn guidance along Jeep Badge of Honor's 62 plus 140 or so off-road trails that all earn curated points. -Interesting descriptions and frequent updates as the path develops over time. (A more expansive catalog of 3,000 lines is available via subscription for just $40/year.)
Lower-spec models get a black interior with gray accents, Mojave models get a new Mantis Green (military olive color) option with orange accents, and Rubicon models get red interior accents on black.
Security Improvements
Standard curtain airbags are a major upgrade forced on the Bronco, and the Gladiator is geometrically different from the Wrangler, with both taking a different approach to weatherproofing than the Ford. Since automotive airbags are the only ones frequently exposed to the weather, sealing is critical. The Ford's bag pops out on a "living hinge" where the Jeep tears through the sonically welded seams. The outboard rear seats get seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters, and structural modifications improve side-impact protection. Blind-spot and cross-path detection and the ParkSense rear park assist system are standard on upper trims and available on Sport S, Willys, Mojave, and Rubicon.
Convenience And Convenience
The front seats are available with a 12-way power adjustment that is electrically sealed in the event of an underwater crossing. Adaptive cruise control with a stop function is standard on Sport S trim and above. All Gladiators now get soundproofing designed for diesel engines, along with acoustic glass, plus a new seven-microphone array and noise cancellation to improve voice recognition—both when interacting with Uconnect 5 and Bluetooth-connected phone calls.
Capacity Enhancement
Maximum towing is still 7,700 pounds and the maximum payload rating is a best-in-class 1,725 pounds. That's just 15 pounds more than last year's top, only now those ratings are leveled on the same model (Sport trim, eight-speed automatic, with 4.10:1 axles). That's nearly 200 pounds more payload than last year's equivalent max-tow model could carry, and 3,700 pounds more towing load than the previous max-pay version (manual with 3.73:1 axles) could carry in 2023. (Note that the gross combined weight rating only rises 50 pounds to 12,850, so there's still no max towing at max carry.) Off-Road+ riding mode and a Mojave-style locking rear differential are now available on 2024 Willys models, along with standard auxiliary control switches. All of this makes the Willys a cheap/starter pickup for hardcore off-roaders—especially when equipped with the first of three upfit kits that can now be ordered from the factory from American Expedition Vehicles (AEV). This Upcountry kit features a 2.0-inch suspension lift and Pintler wheels mounted with 35-inch tires, and while pricing isn't available yet, we're told it will be considered the most affordable midsize truck in the 35s.
When and how much?
Production of the 2024 Jeep Gladiator is scheduled to begin in late 2023, with pricing not expected to change much, except to cover increased standard equipment levels of the new range-topping models.
2024 Jeep Gladiator Specifications
Base price $41,000-$61,000 (estimated)
Layout Front engine truck, 4WD, 5 track, 4 doors
3.6L/285-hp/260-lb-ft port-injected DOHC 24-valve V-6 engine
6-speed manual transmission, 8-speed automatic
Limit Weight 4,650-5,350 pounds (approx.)
The wheelbase is 137.3 inches
L x W x H 218.0 x 73.8 x 73.1-76.1 inches
0-60 MPH 7.5-8.6 seconds (MT estimate)
EPA City/Hwy/Combined Fuel Economy. 16-17/22-23/19 mpg (estimated with 3.6L)
EPA Range Comb. 418 miles (estimated with 3.6L)
On sale end of 2023
