The 2025 Jeep Gladiator occupies a unique space in the midsize truck market. When directly compared to other trucks in its class, it might not immediately appear to be the strongest contender for the “Best Midsize Truck For The Money”. It generally lags behind competitors in on-road performance, comfort, fuel efficiency, and payload capacity, and it often comes with a higher price tag.
However, to judge the Gladiator solely as a conventional midsize truck is to miss its true appeal. It’s fundamentally a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited that has been cleverly adapted with a truck bed. This close relationship to the iconic Wrangler means it inherits the legendary Jeep styling and rugged solid axles – features that define the Wrangler’s exceptional off-road prowess, even if they contribute to a less refined on-road experience. Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator offers a convertible experience with various roof options, removable doors, and a fold-down windshield. The interiors are strikingly similar, both featuring the user-friendly 12.3-inch Uconnect touchscreen, and the model lineups share a familiar structure.
While sharing much with the Wrangler, the Gladiator does have its own distinct characteristics. For 2025, the powertrain choices are more streamlined than the Wrangler’s, with the manual transmission being discontinued. The reliable 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission is now the sole powertrain configuration. Interestingly, this specific combination is no longer available in the Wrangler itself. Furthermore, the Gladiator’s extended wheelbase and Ram-derived rear suspension contribute to a ride that is noticeably smoother and more composed than the Wrangler, although it’s still important to maintain realistic expectations for ride comfort in this vehicle category.
Ultimately, the 2025 Jeep Gladiator caters to a specific niche. If the idea of a pickup truck that embodies the spirit and open-air freedom of a Wrangler resonates with you, and you are willing to accept certain compromises in everyday practicality, the Gladiator will likely fulfill your desires. However, if your primary need is a traditional midsize pickup focused on on-road performance and hauling capability, the recently updated models from Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota will likely prove to be more suitable and potentially represent a better value proposition. The Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Tacoma all offer highly capable off-road variants, with the Tacoma TRD Pro and Ranger Raptor boasting engines that surpass the Gladiator’s V6 in terms of power. Yet, none of these competitors can offer the unique open-air driving experience that defines the Jeep Gladiator. Therefore, the “best midsize truck for the money” truly depends on individual priorities and what you value most in a vehicle.
