Despite their similarities, the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator do not share everything. The fact that the latter has a pickup bed is obvious, but there are also other small aesthetic differences. The same is true mechanically, where the Wrangler offers significantly qmore options.
For now, the Jeep Gladiator offers only one mechanical configuration: a 3.6-liter V6 engine, a proven and very capable powertrain. However, demand for a plug-in hybrid version has been growing in recent years—or at least that’s what we thought—since the American automaker has ultimately decided not to introduce a 4xe version of the Gladiator.
Other Plans
Until recently, Jeep seemed firmly committed to offering a plug-in hybrid version of the Gladiator. But consumer preferences have shifted significantly in the past few years, and it appears that demand for a 4xe version has dropped considerably over time.
Stellantis, more attentive than ever to its customers, has decided to listen, which means the coming years will be very exciting for its North American product lineup. The group recently reintroduced the HEMI engine into the RAM 1500 lineup, and everything points to the new Charger receiving the same powerplant as well.
If I’m talking about the big return of V8 engines at Stellantis, it’s because the group has already confirmed that the Gladiator will inherit the legendary 6.4-liter V8 engine—fantastic news for fans of the model. The brand also specified that this engine will remain available for the Wrangler for as long as possible.
This iconic 6.4-liter V8 produces 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, which is simply mind-blowing for a vehicle of this size. Let’s just say the Ford Ranger Raptor will have its work cut out for it.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
