New Jeep Gladiator: heavy-duty pick-up launched

Wrangler-based machine is designed to meet the popularity of pick-ups in North America – and offers plenty of off-road ability.

The Gladiator is 787mm longer than the four-door Wrangler and, in Crew Cab configuration, features a 1524mm load bay. Jeep says the Gladiator can carry loads of up to 725kg, and has 4370kg of towing capacity.

It will be offered with either a 3.6-litre V6 petrol or, from 2020, a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, with eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual gearboxes offered.

Depending on spec, two different all-wheel-drive systems are available, with both offering full-time torque management. It will be available with electric front- and rear-axle locks, a limited slip differential and electronic sway-bar disconnect.

The Gladiator sits on 17inch wheels, with Rubicon spec models using 33-inch off-road tyres, and Jeep promises 11.1 inches of ground clearance.

The interior features LED information displays up to 7inches in size depending on spec, along with an smartphone-compatible infotainment touchscreen of up to 8.4 inches, plus a number of USB and power sockets.

The Gladiator will be built at Jeep’s plant in Toledo, Ohio.