Jeep Finally Reveals Jeep Gladiator Midsize Pickup

Jeep has finally revealed the Jeep Gladiator, the modern version of a nameplate and model it last produced in 1988 that "builds on a rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks with an unmatched combination of rugged utility, authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, clever functionality and versatility, best-in-class towing and 4x4 payload, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, superior on- and off-road dynamics and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features." "Unquestionably a truck and instantly recognizable as a Jeep, the all-new 2020 Gladiator is the ultimate vehicle for any outdoor adventure," said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Jeep Brand--North America. "There is tremendous demand for this unique vehicle from our loyal Jeep customers and pickup truck buyers everywhere. Born from a rich and proud heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks, Gladiator combines rugged utility, versatility and functionality resulting in the most capable midsize truck ever." The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is available in four different trim configurations: Sport, Sport S, Overland, and Rubicon. Utilizing a body-on-frame design but using an all-new lightweight, high-strength steel frame, the Gladiator's look is based on the four-door Wrangler, down to the seven-slot grille but with wider slots for additional air intake to assist with the increased towing capacity and gently swept back on top "to enhance aerodynamics." The Overland and Rubicon variants have LED headlamps and fog lamps that add to the truck's modern look, with Gladiator models equipped with LED daytime running lights which form a halo around the outside perimeter of the headlights. From behind, traditional square tail lamps feature LED lighting as well and give way to a wide tailgate opening for unobstructed loading of cargo into the bed. The tailgate is damped and capable of stopping in three positions, while cargo is easily secured with a power-locking tailgate. Of course, the cargo bed is the Gladiator's chief selling point and it doesn't disappoint. Under-rail bed lighting, an available covered external power source (400W 115-volt, three-prong), and strong integrated tie-downs provide durability and versatility. The available Trail Rail Cargo Management System provides additional storage options to organize and secure cargo. The full-size spare tire and mount is located under the bed, behind the rear axle and capable of holding up to a 35-inch tire.  An available spray-in bed liner, bed divider, and tonneau cover provide even more options to keep cargo secure while helping with durability. In addition, Rubicon models are equipped with protective cab and cargo bed rock rails. Another Wrangler feature that the Gladiator adopts is its versatile cabin. A four-bolt design at the top of the windshield's frame allows for the windshield to fold down quickly and easily. A header bar connects the A-pillars and stays in place even when the windshield is folded down. This allows the rearview mirror to remain in place even with the windshield folded.  Two-piece body-color fender flares with a black lower insert give a raised profile and are standard on the Overland and available on Rubicon variants. Lightweight, high-strength aluminum doors feature the Torx bit size stamped directly onto the hinge to eliminate guessing which size bit is needed to remove the doors. A tool kit with the necessary Torx bits to remove the doors and lower the windshield is provided as standard equipment.  All Gladiators feature body-color sport bars, which are welded to the body and feature integrated grab handles for front occupants.  A premium Sunrider soft top provides a segment-exclusive easy open-air option, which helps to quiet wind noise and allows for access to partial and full open top positions. The soft top features retainers that slide into a track for easy rear window removal.  Gladiator Overland and Rubicon variants share an available three-piece body-color hardtop option, offering a unique, premium appearance, while a black three-piece hardtop, available on all models, offers even more options for open-air driving. The two Freedom panels and quick-release latches enable a fast removal and installation of the hardtop. When the Gladiator goes on sale, the initial powerplant to be offered is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that produces 285 hp and 353 Nm of torque paired to either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission. In 2020, a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 will join the lineup that puts out 260 hp and 599 Nm of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission that's designed to handle the increased torque output. Being a Jeep, the Gladiator delivers legendary off-road capability courtesy of two advanced 4x4 systems. The Command-Trac 4x4 system on the Sport and Overland features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, and heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a 3.73 rear axle ratio while the Rock-Trac 4x4 system on the Rubicon features heavy-duty third-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a '4LO' ratio of 4:1. A 4.10 front and rear axle ratio is standard as are Tru-Lok locking differentials. Other essential figures to know about the Gladiator's off-roading capabilities are its 43.6-degree approach angle, 20.3-degree breakover angle, 26-degree departure angle, 11.1-inch ground clearance, and 30-inch water fording limit. To protect critical vehicle components while on the trail, including the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan, the Gladiator is equipped with four skid plates and bars. The Gladiator utilizes a five-link coil suspension configuration with the front suspension using a lateral control arm and four longitudinal control arms. Full-width track bars made of forged steel control lateral movement of the axle with minimal angle change during suspension travel. The rear five-link coil suspension design features two upper and two lower forged steel control arms for longitudinal control, and a track bar for lateral axle control. The control arms are located under the frame rails while the rear shocks are forward facing to provide consistent damping for ride comfort and load management.  The springs have been tuned for an optimum balance between on-road handling while providing a comfortable ride around town, with or without cargo in the bed, and the brand's legendary off-road capability. Ride comfort, body-roll control, handling, payload and towing capability is significantly enhanced with assistance from shock tuning, hard points and body mount strategy. The all-new 2020 Jeep Gladiator arrives in showrooms in the second quarter of 2019. [gallery size="vw_two_third_thumbnail_no_crop" ids="47737,47733,47734,47731">