Jeep Gladiator vs. Jeep Wrangler: Everything You Need To Know

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black jeep wrangler

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash

Jeep is known for producing vehicles that offer consistent performance, the power to handle rugged terrain well, and the maneuverability and control you need for off-roading adventures and more. What seems like an outdoorsman’s vehicle at first glance has gained popularity with regular commuters as well, making the Jeep one of the most popular and versatile manufacturers out there. 

But, with that in mind, how do two of its more similar models stack up when you compare them head-to-head? Which will come out on top when you compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Jeep Wrangler? 

Here’s what you need to know if you’re trying to decide between these two Jeeps and a little more detail about their comparisons. 

Jeep Gladiator vs. Jeep Wrangler: Comparing the Interiors Head-to-Head

The interior on your Jeep is one of its most important features, but also often where Jeeps tend to be less popular. The rugged design of the exterior often extends to the interior as well, leaving passengers less comfortable than other manufacturers and without as many options to make it more comfortable. 

Of course, comfort isn’t everything, but it’s pretty important, especially if you’re looking for something that works for long drives. 

Here’s what you need to know, details from Autoguide.com.

  • Base price: Jeep Wrangler
  • Front headroom: Tie
  • Rear headroom: Jeep Gladiator
  • Front legroom: Tie
  • Rear legroom: Jeep Gladiator
  • EPA Cargo Volume: Jeep Gladiator
  • Maximum seating capacity: Jeep Gladiator

When it comes to interior design, these two vehicles are comparable. The Gladiator comes with a 5-person capacity, though the Wrangler only offers a maximum of 4. Since some versions of the Wrangler are only 2-seaters, that makes it easy to call rear capacity and comfort for the Gladiator. 

In terms of comfort and innovations there, the seats are mostly the same. Not the most comfortable on the market, more comfortable than older Jeep alternatives. 

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Jeep Gladiator vs. Jeep Wrangler: Comparing the Sizes Head-to-Head

When it comes to Jeeps, size matters, but angles and maneuverability matter more. The size of your Jeep controls where you can go, but the angles and design details determine which route you can take to get there. 

Still, especially for on-road travel, the size of your Jeep might be an important factor to consider. Especially if you need to haul camping supplies, safety equipment, or other cargo with you. Information from Kelly Blue Book.

  • Length: Gladiator
  • Height: Gladiator
  • Width: Gladiator
  • Wheelbase: Gladiator

Given the main difference between the Gladiator and the Wrangler is the size and shape, it’s no surprise that the Gladiator is a little larger in basically every measurement. The Gladiator’s larger design is meant for people who need to bring more with them when off-roading, but that does come at the cost of some of the maneuverability and fine control of a Wrangler. 

Jeep Gladiator vs. Jeep Wrangler: Comparing the Performance Head-to-Head

Performance is probably the single most important detail about any Jeep. While clearance, angles, and sheer durability are all incredibly important to off-roading performance, none of them will be effective without a powerful engine. 

Unfortunately, that also means that Jeeps tend to trade fuel efficiency for power, making both the Gladiator and the Wrangler a little more expensive to own. 

  • Engine: Tie
  • Engine type: Gas
  • Fuel economy: Jeep Wrangler
  • Cruising range: Jeep Wrangler

In terms of performance, these two vehicles are incredibly similar once again. They have the same engine options, which means that they have similar acceleration and performance. That’s important because it means that they both have similar power, range, and off-roading potential. 

However, the smaller Wrangler does have the advantage of slightly improved fuel efficiency and range thanks to its lighter design. 

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Jeep Gladiator Breakdown

The Jeep Gladiator is designed with incredible maneuverability in mind, in addition to better cargo capacity and the space for more passengers in the standard design. That’s important because it’s the main difference between the Gladiator and the Wrangler. The Gladiator is meant for people who want more than a few bags with them on their next adventure. 

Larger than average wheel wells and a tight turning capacity for a vehicle of its size make the Gladiator a perfect fit for off-roading, narrow roads, and going anywhere a reasonably large vehicle can reach. 

Of course, that design and durability come at the cost of lower than class average fuel efficiency, less a less comfortable cabin, and a very different design from a standard vehicle. 

It’s also worth noting that the Gladiator, like other Jeeps, tends to be more expensive than not. 

Pros 

  • Incredibly maneuverable
  • High cargo capacity
  • Lots of passenger space
  • Folding rear seats for more cargo room

Cons

  • Pricey compared with other manufacturers
  • Larger size limits off-roading potential slightly

Jeep Wrangler Breakdown

The Jeep Wrangler is, in most respects, very similar to its larger cousin, the Gladiator. 

These two vehicles have the same engine, similar MSRP ($44,915 for the Wrangler), almost the same frame, similar wheels and drivetrains, and other vehicle features. Like most Jeeps, the cabin has relatively slim features but is highly functional and designed to make the driver’s job easier, at least when that’s possible. 

The biggest difference is that the Wrangler is more compact and has slightly less room for passengers. It’s not meant to haul a lot of people from place to place, but instead, to get whatever people fit anywhere they want to go. 

That’s a good thing, but it means that the Wrangler also suffers from low fuel efficiency and comfort. At the same time, the fuel efficiency and range of the Wrangler is a slight improvement over the Gladiator. 

Pros 

  • Incredibly maneuverable
  • Better fuel efficiency
  • Good driver support systems
  • Less expensive than the Gladiator

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Cons

  • Expensive compared with other manufacturers
  • Limited passenger and cargo room

Is There a Winner Here?

Since we’re comparing two models that are about as similar as a vehicle can get, there really isn’t a clear winner between the Jeep Gladiator vs. Jeep Wrangler. These two vehicles are both exceptional at what they do, and both have significant drawbacks that balance out the advantages. 

Instead, the main difference is how many passengers each vehicle can hold. If you’re looking to move a lot of people from place to place, the Gladiator might be a better choice. However, the Wrangler gives you just a little more maneuverability and control in exchange for a smaller design that doesn’t hold as many passengers.

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