Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
2020-2024
The Gladiator Rubicon represents the marriage of Jeep's legendary Wrangler capability with pickup truck utility. It offers uncompromising off-road performance while maintaining the open-air freedom that defines the Jeep experience.
Quick Take
The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon is the most capable off-road pickup truck available, combining Wrangler-level rock crawling ability with mid-size truck practicality. It features front and rear locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and 33-inch tires from the factory.
Best For
Key Strength
Ultimate Off-Road Capability
Watch For
On-Road Refinement Deficit
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on 80+ years of Jeep truck heritage, the Gladiator revived the pickup truck segment for Jeep in 2020. The Rubicon trim carries forward the most extreme off-road capabilities from the Wrangler Rubicon lineage.
Design Philosophy
Form follows function with rugged, utilitarian styling that prioritizes capability over refinement. Every design element serves the purpose of maximum off-road performance and outdoor adventure utility.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The Pentastar V6 delivers steady, reliable power with adequate torque for off-road crawling and towing. While not particularly exciting on pavement, it provides the consistent performance needed for challenging terrain.
Chassis Dynamics
Solid axles front and rear with coil spring suspension provide exceptional articulation and ground clearance. On-road handling is truck-like with body roll and a bouncy ride, but off-road capability is unmatched in the pickup segment.
Sound Signature
Mechanical and purposeful with the distinctive rumble of a naturally aspirated V6 and the option for wind-in-your-hair open-air driving.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The Rubicon trim delivers unmatched rock crawling ability with its 4:1 transfer case, electronic lockers front and rear, and solid Dana axles. Combined with 33-inch tires and disconnecting sway bars, it tackles terrain that would stop most other vehicles cold.
No other pickup offers the Gladiator's level of factory and aftermarket personalization options. From removable doors and roof panels to an enormous selection of wheels, tires, bumpers, and suspension upgrades, owners can truly make it their own.
Honest Tradeoffs
The solid front axle and aggressive tires create significant road noise, wandering at highway speeds, and a choppy ride quality. This is the price paid for off-road capability, but daily driving comfort suffers compared to conventional pickups.
The combination of brick-like aerodynamics, heavy weight, and inefficient V6 engine results in poor fuel economy. Real-world mpg often falls into the mid-teens, making it expensive to operate as a daily driver.
Ideal Owner
Serious off-road enthusiasts who need pickup truck utility and value capability over comfort. Perfect for adventurers who use their truck as intended.