2021 RAM 1500 vs 2020 Jeep Gladiator

In the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, its unveiling was quite a spectacle. On a warm day in Los Angeles, the Firecracker Red Gladiator Overland captured the attention of pedestrians and drivers alike. People on the Pacific Coast Highway took note, stopping to admire and even photograph the new truck. The excitement was palpable as this truck sparked numerous conversations and turned heads wherever it went. However, not everyone was a fan. One person from the neighborhood even stopped to comment on its unattractive looks, although they were curious about the price.

With four available trims—Sport, Sport S, Overland, and Rubicon—the Gladiator offered a 3.6-liter V6 engine and a 6-speed manual gearbox across all models. The pricing for the base Sport started at $33,545, while the Rubicon, the most expensive trim, began at $43,545 before added destination charges. Options like an automatic transmission and a hardtop added to the cost, with prices for a fully-loaded Overland trim reaching $52,920.

The new Gladiator's design retained much of the classic Wrangler's aesthetics from the front doors forward, featuring a high-strength steel 5-foot cargo bed from the front doors back. This resulted in a longer frame, which impacted its breakover angle and maneuverability, but it compensated with generous cab and cargo bed space. Inside, it maintained the Wrangler's rugged, easy-to-clean interior, including optional slush mats.

Conversely, the 2021 RAM 1500 built on the redesign from 2019 and retained its versatile mix of configurations. The lineup didn't introduce many new design elements except for trims like the TRX and the 10th Anniversary Edition. The TRX, with its commanding rugged design inspired by off-road rally races like Baja, featured functional hood scoops, a massive grille, and fender vents.

The TRX only came in the crew cab configuration with a 5-foot, 7-inch bed and a notable 145.1-inch wheelbase, making it taller and wider than the standard Ram 1500. This girth required it to sport identifier lamps, a distinctive characteristic. Its off-road capability was underpinned by large all-terrain tires and elevated ground clearance.

Inside, the TRX flaunted Ram's signature first-class comfort and technology. The setup featured durable and luxurious materials, a flat-bottom performance steering wheel, and a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment screen. Customization options included leather and suede upholstery with contrast stitching and premium finishes, providing a more comfortable and sophisticated driving experience.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator's performance reminded one of the Wrangler, especially on long highway journeys. The 3.6-liter V6 engine delivered 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission for speedy acceleration. While towing a 5,000-pound trailer, the Gladiator took a bit of time to reach cruising speed. The Rubicon trim excelled off-road, offering an 84:1 crawl ratio, locking differentials, and an Off-Road+ traction system. With a slightly less aggressive tire setup, the Overland trim also performed well on rocky trails.

When not tackling rough terrain, the Gladiator behaved like a traditional truck. Its steering was slow, the live-axle suspension communicated road imperfections, and gas mileage averaged around 20.3 mpg on highway journeys. The Gladiator's convertible nature added to its fun factor, offering unique driving experiences when the top and doors were removed.

Meanwhile, the 2021 RAM 1500 TRX took performance to another level with its 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8 engine producing 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, making it a beast on and off the road. The 8-speed automatic transmission facilitated a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 118 mph. The TRX's payload capacity was 1,310 pounds, with a towing capability of 8,100 pounds.

During extensive testing in diverse terrains—from forested mountain highways to desert sand dunes—the TRX proved highly capable. It offered eight driving modes, including Baja for off-road racing. The launch control feature provided exhilarating acceleration, while its off-road capabilities were showcased on tracks and rock climbs. The TRX handled bumps and rocky trails efficiently, offering a dynamic and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offered a shallow cargo bed that, with the tailgate down, fit 95% of motorcycle designs. It boasted a maximum payload of 1,600 pounds and a step load rating of 1,800 pounds for the tailgate. Its bed volume was modest, but it featured cargo tie-downs and an adjustable tailgate for hauling plywood or drywall sheets. The interior was spacious, with heated front seats, black cloth upholstery, and optional headliner panels. Access was easier with optional side steps, providing comfort for both driver and passengers. The cabin's functionality included plenty of storage spaces, air vents, and charging ports, with convertible options for the top, making it versatile for different weather conditions.

For the 2021 RAM 1500 TRX, attention to detail extended to full-length rock rails for added protection and ease of entry, optional traditional running boards, and full-size spare tires. Despite the TRX's larger exterior dimensions, its interior dimensions matched the standard Ram 1500, with 40.9 inches of front headroom and legroom, and 39.8 and 45.2 inches in the rear seats, respectively.

The TRX interior featured ample storage options, from center console bins to functional compartments. The seats, especially in the TRX Level 2 package, offered a balance of comfort and support. Powered-adjustable pedals ensured optimal driving comfort, and the seating position allowed extensive adjustability, setting it apart from competitors. The convenience and comfort features of the TRX's interior aimed at reducing driver fatigue over long journeys.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator featured an array of drivetrain technologies, including remote start, passive entry, and upgraded infotainment with an Alpine sound system. The Gladiator's Uconnect infotainment system was available in a 7-inch or 8.4-inch display, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system responded quickly and was easy to use, with features like Off-Road Pages for real-time performance tracking. Unique to the Gladiator was a removable Bluetooth speaker, enhancing outdoor experiences.

The 2021 RAM 1500 came standard with a 12-inch Uconnect 4C infotainment touchscreen, customizable for driver preferences. It offered single or split-screen configurations and features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and more, though it was a fingerprint magnet and non-driver-centric. Performance Pages provided detailed vehicle metrics, and Off-Road Pages displayed relevant off-roading data. The system included wireless charging, multiple connectivity options, HD Radio, and SiriusXM subscriptions. The Ram 1500 introduced a new full-color head-up display, customizable for real-time driving information, enhancing its cutting-edge tech appeal.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator offered optional Active and Advanced Safety Groups. The Active Safety Group included blind-spot monitoring, rear parking-assist sensors, and LED taillights. The Advanced Safety Group added adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning. These systems enhanced safety on long drives, although crash test data was unavailable, casting some uncertainty over its overall safety rating.

For the 2021 RAM 1500 TRX, over 100 safety and security features were available, though many came at an extra cost. Standard safety features included a rear backup camera, with options for a 360-degree view. The Advanced Safety Group added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, and pedestrian detection with emergency braking. A new digital rear-view mirror toggled between traditional and LCD display, with additional ADAS features like hill-start assist, blind-spot monitoring, and trailer sway control enhancing safety. Passive safety features and an enhanced accident response system further improved the truck's readiness for unpredictable terrain.