2023 RAM 2500 vs 2023 Jeep Gladiator

In the 2023 Jeep Gladiator, changes were minimal with the introduction of the Gladiator Freedom Edition which paid tribute to American servicemen and servicewomen. Recognizable for its body-color fender flares and gloss black wheels, it added a special touch to the lineup. The Gladiator’s longer wheelbase and fortified frame necessary for pickup duty gave it a unique, somewhat awkward elongated look that, while functional, sacrificed aesthetic harmony for utility.

In contrast, the 2023 RAM 2500 displayed a rugged, bold presence with the new Rebel trim which shared some visual cues with the powerful Power Wagon but distinguished itself with cleaner lines and a lack of the Power Wagon's signature graphics. The Rebel's black-out design and aluminum sport hood projected a trendy yet aggressive stance.

The interior experience of the Gladiator mirrored its off-road-oriented design with durable materials suited for outdoor activities, which could also be easily cleaned. In comparison, the RAM 2500 Rebel offered a more refined cabin with high-quality materials and advanced technological integrations that made it as luxurious as it was functional, despite the presence of some less appealing hard plastics.

The Gladiator was powered by a standard 285-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 or an optional 260-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbodiesel, which was praised for its improved fuel efficiency despite less towing capability. Its off-road capability was exceptional, especially with the Mojave trim crafted explicitly for high-speed desert performance.

The RAM 2500 Rebel, equipped with a standard 410-horsepower 6.4-liter V8, and an optional 370-horsepower, 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel, proved mighty. Though it lacked the Power Wagon’s front locking differential and disconnecting sway bar, it offered significant towing capacities and impressive off-road credentials complemented by high-strength steel construction and sophisticated suspension systems.

Entering and using the space inside the Jeep Gladiator involved some athleticism due to high step-in height and narrow rear doors, common in capable off-road vehicles. Storage inside was thoughtfully integrated, though the five-foot cargo bed was not the most expansive offering modest utility.

The RAM 2500 Rebel, while also requiring a climb to enter, provided a wealth of interior and cargo storage solutions that catered to both practical and luxury needs. The ride comfort, even under load, highlighted the sophisticated engineering of the RAM’s chassis and suspension design. The RAM's various cargo management options including the exclusive RamBox system, added to its practicality.

Both vehicles boasted significant technological enhancements. The Gladiator offered essential connectivity features and off-road-specific aids like the Off-Road+ driving mode and TrailCam, but it felt slightly behind in terms of in-car technology sophistication.

The RAM 2500 impressed with its advanced 12-inch digital instrumentation, expansive Uconnect 5 system, and comprehensive suite of cameras and towing tech that made trailering simpler and safer, presenting a more modern and connected driving environment.