Finally, the Jeep truck has been officially announced and it is the called GLADIATOR! When I read the name Gladiator I pretend it is with a deep voice and reverb, so you can imagine. One of the most anticipated vehicles I can recall in quite some time. I mean, yes, there have been supercars and other vehicles with anticipation, but not for a truck in a while. I feel like Jeep did a great job on the Gladiator. I have not seen one in person yet, but I have seen a ton of pictures and videos. It is very similar to the new Jeep Wrangler JL series, but I think it is better. How you may ask? Well, it has best-in-class towing capacity at 7,650 pounds and a payload of 1,600 pounds. As a Jeep owner myself, I could have used this capability a long time ago. Now you’ll be able to tow a camper and other items with ease. Yes, you could pull with previous Jeep Wranglers, but they did not have this type of towing capacity. Jeep has made it super convenient to tow things behind or in the bed of the truck.

One other reason I really like this Jeep truck is no matter what model you get, the truck will have the heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles. This is HUGE for off-road capability for the Gladiator. The Rubicon version is decked out with lockable axles, electronic disconnecting front sway bar, FOX shocks, 33-inch all-terrain tires and an all new forward-facing TrailCam off-road camera that aids in off-road obstacle Navigation. I am really excited to check out one of these trucks and I hope I get the chance to drive and review one.

No price information has been released yet, but my guess is the base model will probably start at around $32,000 and the top of the line model Rubicon will be in the ballpark of $50,000. Yes, it’s a lot of money, but there is not another truck like it right now. The 2020 model is rumored to be getting a diesel engine option with over 400 ft./lbs. of torque! I’m predicting this truck will be the hottest item and modified vehicle at SEMA 2019.

 

You can watch the introduction of the Gladiator at the LA Auto Show below.

What are your thoughts?

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