2023 Jeep Gladiator vs 2023 Ford F-150

The 2023 Ford F-150 showcased a familiar yet refined aesthetic that resonated well with traditional pickup enthusiasts. A vast array of configurations meant that potential buyers had the flexibility to tailor the truck to their specific needs and budget. The wide variety of trim levels, from the utilitarian XL to the high-performance Raptor R, provided options across a wide spectrum of functionalities and aesthetics. The test truck in particular, adorned with the optional packages and Ford’s unique Area 51 paint color, delivered an appealing blend of practicality and style both inside and out, despite the presence of some cheaper materials.

Conversely, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator maintained its distinctive rugged charm, emphasized by minimal updates for the year. The model tested was the Gladiator Mojave, which came well-equipped for high-speed off-road adventures. Its extended frame, reminiscent of a “mullet” in style, and orange accents were testimony to its unique appeal and functionality tailored toward a very specific audience. Inside, the Gladiator echoed the utilitarian vibe of its sibling, the Wrangler, with durable materials and practical design choices that underscored its adventure-ready intentions.

The F-150’s optional twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine provided a robust 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, offering ample power for most tasks. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and an optional four-wheel-drive system, the F-150 touted a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds and a payload rating of 3,315 pounds, depending on the configuration. On the road, the F-150 demonstrated impressive handling and ride quality for its class, though it fell slightly short of the plush ride provided by some competitors.

The Gladiator, with its standard 285-horsepower V6 and optional 260-horsepower diesel, offered capable but not outstanding on-road performance. Off-road, however, the Mojave trim’s specialized suspension and 33-inch tires shone, absorbing rough terrains with ease and providing a surprisingly smooth ride even under less than ideal conditions. Fuel efficiency in real-world testing largely met expectations, though the cabin’s noise levels at high speeds were a notable drawback.

In terms of interior amenities, the F-150 excelled with its thoughtful touches geared toward comfort and convenience. Features like power-adjustable pedals, optional heated seats, and extensive in-cabin storage options highlighted Ford’s attention to user experience. The cargo bed was equally impressive, equipped with a factory-applied spray-in bedliner and a versatile onboard power system.

The Gladiator’s interior and cargo functionalities catered to outdoor enthusiasts. Difficult entry and cramped rear seating contrasted with practical details like a wash-out interior and removable Bluetooth speaker. While its five-foot bed provided less cargo space than some competitors, it compensated with versatile features like an adjustable tie-down system and a power outlet.

The F-150 came fully equipped with an array of advanced driving aids under the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 suite, providing safety technologies that functioned competently across diverse driving conditions. It also scored highly in both IIHS and NHTSA testing, reflecting its commitment to safety.

The Gladiator, meanwhile, offered a more basic suite of safety features, with additional options available to enhance its capabilities. Its crashworthiness, according to NHTSA and IIHS results, showed room for improvement, particularly regarding the headlights and rollover safety.