Jeep is one of the few automakers that still develops some of its 4x4 models with removable roofs. Taking advantage of this fact, Jeep clubs around the world, including the Jeep Club of South Africa, hold an annual "Go Topless Day" in which members meet at their closest dealerships and then travel to designated meeting points to enjoy the day in the sun with like-minded people.
Related: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2.0T Rubicon (2025) Review
This year, the global "Go Topless Day" took place on the 16th of May, and we joined in the fun. Stellantis South Africa and Jeep South Africa invited AutoTrader to join the fun and meet the passionate owners who enjoy the vehicles in South Africa. Of course, we couldn't just arrive in any car, so we were provided a rather "kitted-out" Jeep Gladiator 3.6 Rubicon to take part in the event.
Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator is the flagship of the current Jeep line-up, alongside two variants of the popular Wrangler. To say that it is a rather large double-cab is an understatement. The standard Gladiator measures 5 591mm long, 1 894mm wide, and 1 905mm tall, and with the modified bumpers, wheels, and suspension on our example, we would imagine it pushes those numbers further.
Under the bonnet of the Gladiator is a 3.6-litre, V6 petrol engine, coupled to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces 209kW and 347Nm of torque, but our test unit had an aftermarket exhaust, which we imagine doesn't just bolster the sound but also the power. But if you want to find out more about the Jeep Gladiator, you can read the full written review here.
But keep in mind that Jeep has added a few upgrades since its local introduction in 2022. The exterior benefits from a revised front grille, which now features slimmer, black-textured slots with grey metallic bezels and a body-colour surround. The exterior also gains a windshield-integrated antenna. Customers can also choose from an updated range of wheels.
On the inside, there is a new 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 infotainment touchscreen system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety has been bolstered with two additional airbags, bringing the total to six as standard. The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon starts from R 1 427 900, which includes a 5-year / 100 000km warranty as well as a 3-year / 100 000km maintenance plan.
Jeep Go Topless Day
The Jeep Go Topless Day originated in the United States of America, where the event celebrates the first day of Summer, hence the removal of roofs and the enjoyment in the sun. The event brings together thousands of owners across the country to enjoy their cars, celebrate the season, and support charitable causes.
For the South African Club, it is more of a last celebration of open-top driving before we head into winter, but the same principles remain. Jeep Club of South Africa members or any Jeep owner can register for the event and meet at the designated dealers throughout South Africa. From there, the vehicles convoy to designated points where they are displayed to the public.
This year, the Gauteng contingent met at Ouma Isie's Tea Garden and Restaurant, south of Pretoria. Even in the brisk morning, spirits were high, and the owners were ready to have some fun in the sun. A wide variety of Jeeps made an appearance, including a few Second World War-era Willys Jeep units with imitation weaponry.
If this lifestyle is what you are looking for, remember that you can search for new or used Jeep models on AutoTrader here. If you are a Jeep owner and would like to experience one of these Jeep-specific events, you can find the details at the Jeep Club South Africa website here.
