Jeep is a brand that is synonymous with rugged off-road capability and the Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Wrangler are two of the most popular models in the lineup. Both are designed to tackle the toughest terrain and offer a unique driving experience. But what’s the difference between these two off-road beasts? Well luckily, we’re here to compare Jeep’s signature lineup to help you make a decision about what’s right for you!

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Design & Construction

When you think classic Jeep, you're probably picturing the Wrangler. That classic, boxy SUV is instantly recognizable when you're out on the road, and love it or hate it, it sure makes a statement. While the Gladiator is very similar in terms of look and style, it has some key differences that may or may not be what you're looking for.

The Jeep Gladiator is a pickup truck variant of the Wrangler. It comes with a five-foot cargo bed, which makes it more versatile than the Wrangler, allowing you to haul cargo and tow trailers (or even use it as a makeshift diving board at the lake - we cannot confirm or deny whether or not we’ve tried this…). The Gladiator also comes with a larger fuel tank and a higher payload capacity, making it better suited for heavy-duty tasks.

On the other hand, the Wrangler is a compact SUV, which is more compact and easier to maneuver. The Wrangler is also available in a two-door "Sport" model, which is more affordable and better suited for off-roading.In terms of their overall design, the two vehicles are very similar - from the front you almost wouldn’t know the difference. And yes, they both suffer from the classic Jeep windshield problem since they’ve both got that signature flat, vertical windshield that attracts rock chips like no other which means you’ll want something to protect your glass.

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Performance

When it comes to off-road capability, both the Gladiator and Wrangler are equally capable. Both models come with Jeep's well-known 4x4 system, which allows you to tackle the toughest terrain with ease. The Gladiator also comes with a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine, which provides plenty of power for heavy-duty tasks. The Wrangler, on the other hand, comes with a choice of engines, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-liter V6 engine.

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Features

In terms of interior features, both the Gladiator and Wrangler come with a variety of standard and optional features. The Gladiator comes with a standard five-inch touchscreen display and a six-speaker sound system, while the Wrangler comes with a standard seven-inch touchscreen display and a six-speaker sound system. Both models also come with a variety of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert which are pretty much standard in any new vehicles on the lot in 2023.

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Price

In terms of price, the Gladiator is generally more expensive, but the price will vary depending on the configuration and options chosen, both offer a great value for the money with their off-road capabilities, durability, and versatility.

To get more specific, the starting price for a 2023 Wrangler is about $31,000, whereas you're looking at closer to $39,000 for the Gladiator model. That means you're paying about 25% more for the pickup and towing capabilities of the newer Gladiator model.

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Conclusion

When it does come time to pull the trigger, make sure to look into the accessories and customization options that are available for both models - and book your windshield protection film installation fast so you don’t find yourself driving a brand new Jeep with a busted windshield!

All-in-all, the Jeep Gladiator and Jeep Wrangler are both great choices for drivers who want a capable off-road vehicle. The Gladiator is better suited for heavy-duty tasks and comes with a larger cargo bed, while the Wrangler is more compact and easier to maneuver. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to your specific needs and what you're looking for in a vehicle.