If can trust rumors, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator will come with big novelties. Allegedly, the next year is about to bring a new powertrain option – electrified. After the recent launch of the Wrangler 4xe, which expect the same scenario in the case of the Gladiator. This would mean a plug-hybrid setup, which offers a lot of power, good fuel economy and a decent all-electric range.
Other than the new hybrid powertrain, we don’t expect that the 2023 Jeep Gladiator will bring any significant changes. The overall layout will remain the same, which means that you may count on a pickup truck that offers great off-road performances, solid capabilities regarding towing and hauling and one of the most spacious cabins in the class. Furthermore, we like the infotainment system, as well as the fuel economy with the diesel version. On the other hand, the biggest complaint goes to stiff suspension setup, lots of wind noise and on-road ride quality in general.
We expect to see the new model sometime in the second half of 2022.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Could Get Hybrid Version
This is certainly the biggest rumor about the 2023 Gladiator. The officials are still quiet but after the launch of Wrangler with such a powertrain, we don’t see a reason why its pickup sibling would come in the same way as well. If this happens, the new version would come as the 2023 Jeep Gladiator 4xe and it will come with a pretty capable setup, which combines a turbo-four engine with an electric motor, for a pretty respectable total output of 375 horsepower.
Besides strong performance, this model would also offer good fuel economy. The Wrangler 4xe returns around 49 mpg-e combined, so we would expect something similar from the pickup. The same thing goes for the all-electric range, which should go around 20 miles.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Engines
Other than the new hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator will continue with the same powertrain options on the offer. That means a choice between gasoline and diesel versions. Standard models come with a familiar 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine, which puts out around 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The engine comes with either a six-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The average fuel economy goes around 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
On the other hand, the diesel version comes with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, which puts out around 260 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. This version is available only with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offers way better fuel economy. You may count on about 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Both versions can tow up to around 7.500 pounds.
Exterior and Interior Design
We don’t expect to see bigger changes in this aspect. Simply, the current model is still relatively fresh and we believe that more important updates in these aspects won’t occur in the following years. The current model looks attractive, as it mimics the legendary Wrangler. Also, we particularly like the mechanical aspect, especially regarding off-road hardware. All models come standard with goodies like solid front and rear axles, four-wheel drive, skid plates, tow hooks, bed tie-down cleats, a Class II tow hitch receiver, a two-speed transfer case etc. Also, you can opt for upgrades like rock rails, a limited-slip rear differential, Fox off-road shock absorbers, locking front and rear axles, an electronic sway bar disconnect, 17-inch wheels, 33-inch all-terrain tires and more.
When it comes to the interior design, the dashboard looks pretty much the same as in Wrangler. The overall quality is good, though the Gladiator’s main strength is probably the amount of space. This model comes standard with a crew cab, with enough room to accommodate adults in both rows of seats. Behind the seats, you may count on a 5-foot cargo bed.
Features
Most likely, the 2023 Gladiator will carry on with the same or similar list of standard and available equipment. For reference, the current model comes standard with goodies like a 5-inch infotainment screen, manual windows and door locks, air conditioning, push-button start, satellite radio, eight speakers, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. In higher trim levels, you can get upgrades like 7- and 8.4-inch touch screens, a navigation system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, nine speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, proximity keyless entry, and remote start.
A rearview camera is currently the only standard safety feature. Additionally, you can get goodies like rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, a forward-facing camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlights.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Jeep Gladiator will hit the market sometime in the second half of 2022, with a starting price of around 36.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevy Colorado etc.