2020 Jeep Gladiator vs 2020 RAM 2500

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator made quite an impression when it first hit the roads, especially in its Firecracker Red Overland trim. As it cruised through Los Angeles, it turned heads and sparked conversations, with people eager to capture its unique design on their smartphones. Despite its popularity, not everyone was a fan of its aesthetics, as evidenced by a neighbor's candid remark about its appearance. The Gladiator's design was a blend of the familiar Jeep Wrangler front with a new high-strength steel cargo bed, making it a distinctive entry in the midsize truck segment. Its extended frame and wheelbase provided ample cabin and bed space, though it compromised on maneuverability compared to the Wrangler.

In contrast, the 2020 RAM 2500 was a testament to elegance and upscale design in the heavy-duty truck category. Its imposing grille and sleek LED headlights gave it a commanding presence, while the chrome accents and optional body-color bumper added a touch of sophistication. The RAM 2500's design was a refined evolution of the RAM 1500, with its larger dimensions accommodating the truck's heavy-duty capabilities. The Limited trim, with its 20-inch chrome wheels and LED taillights, further emphasized its luxurious appeal. Inside, the RAM 2500 offered a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that was unmatched in its class, with premium materials and a thoughtfully designed interior that catered to both comfort and functionality.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Its 8-speed automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and decent acceleration, though it struggled a bit when towing heavy loads. Off-road, the Gladiator Rubicon excelled with its Rock-Trac 4WD system, offering an 84:1 crawl ratio and various off-road features like sway bar disconnects and locking differentials. The Overland trim, while less rugged, still managed challenging terrains with its Command-Trac 4WD system. On the highway, the Gladiator was noisy, and its steering was vague, but it offered a unique open-air driving experience reminiscent of the Wrangler.

The 2020 RAM 2500 offered two engine options: a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.7-liter Cummins diesel inline-six with 370 horsepower and a massive 850 lb-ft of torque. The diesel engine, in particular, provided impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum capacity of 19,780 pounds. Despite its size, the RAM 2500 was surprisingly quick on the highway, though its steering was loose and the ride was stiff compared to the RAM 1500. The diesel's exhaust brake was a standout feature, offering effective deceleration without relying on the brakes, which was invaluable when towing heavy trailers.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator's cargo bed was designed to accommodate most motorcycle designs, with a maximum payload of 1,600 pounds. Its shallow bed allowed for easy access, and various tie-downs and tailgate configurations made it versatile for hauling. Inside, the Gladiator offered a spacious cabin with durable materials, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Overland trim's side steps, while helpful for some, could be cumbersome for others. The Gladiator's convertible nature was a highlight, with options for both soft and hard tops, allowing for an open-air experience.

The 2020 RAM 2500 provided a choice of three cab configurations and two bed lengths, with the Crew Cab offering ample space for passengers. The Mega Cab option added a level of luxury with reclining rear seats and additional privacy. The RAM 2500's interior was well-appointed, with power running boards and a retractable tailgate step enhancing accessibility. The truck's bed was equipped for heavy-duty use, with options for a spray-in bed liner and LED lighting. The RAM 2500 also offered advanced features like a 220-amp alternator and dual alternator options for power-hungry equipment.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator featured a basic yet functional infotainment system, with options for remote start, passive entry, and a removable Bluetooth speaker. The top-tier Uconnect system in the Overland trim included an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system was user-friendly, with responsive controls and voice-command capabilities. However, it lacked a breadcrumb function for off-road navigation, which could be a drawback for adventurous drivers.

The 2020 RAM 2500's technology offerings were impressive, with a standard 5-inch touchscreen and an optional 12-inch display that set a new standard for truck infotainment systems. The Uconnect system was intuitive, with customizable shortcuts and a high-resolution display. The 12-inch screen provided ample space for navigation, trailer settings, and camera views, making it an invaluable tool for drivers. The RAM 2500's technology suite also included advanced camera systems for enhanced visibility and safety.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offered optional safety packages, including the Active Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, which added features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. However, the Gladiator lacked automatic emergency braking, and its crash protection ratings were not available at the time of review, leading to a conservative safety score.

The 2020 RAM 2500, while not rated by major safety organizations, benefited from the RAM 1500's strong safety performance, which included a Top Safety Pick+ rating. The RAM 2500 offered optional driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The availability of forward emergency braking, even with a trailer attached, was a notable advantage, though these features were not standard.