With sales starting in 2019, the release of the Jeep Gladiator was greeted with great fanfare. The Gladiator marked the return of a truck in Jeep’s lineup. And that is because it is essentially a Jeep Wrangler in mid-size truck form. But, despite the excitement of enthusiasts, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator has found itself at the bottom of Consumer Reports’ compact truck list. So, why exactly is this?
Is the 2022 Jeep Gladiator a good truck?
2022 Jeep Gladiator | Jeep
Although it may not be at the top for Consumer Reports, the Jeep Gladiator is a decent mid-size truck. It comes with a five-foot bed and has a similar capability to the Wrangler. Its rear suspension is borrowed from the Ram 1500, which lends itself to having a more comfortable ride than the Wrangler too. Better yet, this mid-size truck comes outfitted with a 3.6-liter V6 engine. This proven engine provides ample power, and there is also an available turbo-diesel option.
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator is available in a variety of trim levels, including the Rubicon trim, which is a serious off-road truck. This is complemented by the fact that the Gladiator has removable doors and a removable roof. This means drivers can enjoy an open-air experience.
What does Consumer Reports like about the Gladiator mid-size truck?
One of the biggest selling points of the new Gladiator is its off-road ability. But in order to get the full capability, buyers will need to opt for the available Rubicon trim. This package changes the suspension, adds a locking rear differential, and has beefier tires. Lower trims are still able to go off-road, but Consumer Reports notes that the Gladiator is not necessarily more capable than other mid-size trucks.
Like a true modern truck, this Jeep comes equipped with a damped tailgate, which means it lowers softly. This will come in handy when you use the bed of your 2022 Gladiator and is likely to be appreciated.
Where does the 2022 Jeep Gladiator fall short?
No vehicle is perfect, and the Jeep Gladiator is no different. The Gladiator has a starting price of $36,480 and trims and options quickly lead this truck to become even more expensive. This price tag may be one of the Gladiator’s biggest downfalls, as it is not affordable as other trucks in this segment.
Additionally, safety features come at an added cost. In order to equip active safety tech, buyers must pay extra for different packages. Other manufacturers are starting to make things like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot warning standard fare. That is not the case for the 2022 Jeep Gladiator, which is a bit of a disappointment. Especially when the price of this new pickup truck is considered.
Should you buy the Jeep Gladiator?
2023 Jeep Gladiator Bob Concept | Jeep
If you are shopping for a new pickup truck and want the prestige of the Jeep brand, the Gladiator is really the only option. Even though Consumer Reports has placed this mid-size truck last, that does not mean it is not worthy of consideration.
For the right shopper, the Gladiator is a practical option with some unique features when compared to other modern trucks.
Keyword: According to Consumer Reports, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator Is Last