The 2022 Jeep Gladiator is the ultimate plaything for 4x4 enthusiasts and Jeep can hardly keep up with local demand. There is only one variant available: the Gladiator Rubicon, and it will set you back R1 329 900 (in January 2022 when this article was published).
Have you fallen in love with the boxy, ruggedly handsome Gladiator? Here's what you need to know.
1. It's almost as powerful as it is capable
A naturally aspirated, V6 Pentastar petrol-engine powers all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox, capable of 209 kW and 347 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption is rated at 12.4 litres per 100 km but that's the manufacturer's figure - they also wager a range of 669 km on one tank but it sounds a bit too good to be true. If you can afford a Gladiator, we reckon your fuel budget is not that much of an issue. The Jeep Gladiator benefits from the popular V6 engine’s low-range torque, which is essential during challenging conditions.
Find out how comfortable the drive really is in our review below:
Jeep Gladiator (2022) review
2. It has every conceivable piece of off-road equipment on board
The all-new Jeep Gladiator delivers legendary off-road prowess combined with composed on-road driving dynamics and passenger safety thanks to the Command-Trac and Rock-Trac 4x4 systems, third-generation Dana 44 axles, Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, segment-exclusive sway-bar disconnect and off-road tyres. It has a full-size spare wheel under the bed behind the rear axle. The Gladiator's wading depth is 800mm.
The Gladiator has an approach angle of 43.6 degrees, breakover angle of 20.3 degrees, departure angle of 26 degrees and a ground clearance of 249mm, with up to 2721 kg towing and 693kg 4x4 payload capacity.
Uniquely suited to the requirements of the Gladiator Rubicon model, the eight-speed automatic transmission delivers a 77.2:1 crawl ratio. The towing and 4x4 performance benefits from a 4.7:1 first gear ratio coupled with a 4.1:1 final drive. Selec-Speed Control is standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission and manages vehicle speed in "4LO" while traversing off-road terrain without requiring throttle or brake input, allowing the driver to focus on steering. Selec-Speed Control is activated using a button on the dashboard and can be adjusted from 1-8km/h simply by using the AutoStick shift control. - Jeep SA
Related: Is the Jeep Gladiator a safe car?
3. It's the only 'bakkie' in SA with a removable roof and doors
There is no other 'pick-up' or double cab that can compete with this party trick!
A tool kit with the necessary Torx bits to remove the doors and lower the windscreen is provided as standard equipment.
A four-bolt design at the top of the windshield’s frame allows for the windscreen to fold down quickly and easily. The header bar connecting the A-pillars stays in place even when the windscreen is folded down, allowing for the rearview mirror to remain in place even with the windscreen folded. The Gladiator also features body-colour sports bars, which are welded to the body and feature integrated grab handles for front occupants. A premium Sunrider soft top provides an easy open-air option, which helps to quiet wind noise and allows for access to partial and full open-top positions. The soft top features retainers that slide into a track for easy rear window removal. There is also a black three-piece hardtop which offers even more options for open-air driving. The two Freedom panels and quick-release latches enable a fast removal and installation of the hardtop. The hardtop features a manual rear-sliding window. - Jeep SA
Source: Jeep SA, Quickpic
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