2023 RAM 2500 vs 2024 Jeep Gladiator

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel presented a familiar yet distinct appearance, closely resembling the Power Wagon but with notable differences. It featured an aluminum sport hood, 20-inch wheels, and a sleek, blacked-out look, omitting the Power Wagon's graphics, 17-inch wheels, and front bumper winch. The Rebel's aggressive stance was complemented by a Rebel-specific grille and a crew-cab configuration with a 6-foot, 4-inch cargo bed. It offered a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine, with an optional 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six, unavailable in the Power Wagon due to cooling constraints. The base price was set at $67,045, with additional features pushing the MSRP to $91,630. The 2023 model year brought enhancements like a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel, side-view cameras, and towing technologies, adding to its appeal. Inside, the Rebel boasted quality materials and a luxurious feel, though the glossy black plastic around the infotainment system was prone to dust and reflections.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator came in various trims, including Sport, Willys, Mojave, and Rubicon, with new additions like Mojave X and Rubicon X. It featured a crew-cab, short-bed configuration with removable fabric or hard tops and doors, and a foldable windshield. Prices ranged from $37,895 for the base Sport to $63,590 for the Mojave X and Rubicon X. The Mojave X trim included an automatic transmission, new Anvil paint, upgraded wheels, and a Sunrider fabric panel. Subtle styling updates included a new grille design and integrated antenna. The interior saw improvements with soft-touch surfaces, contrast stitching, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Mojave X and Rubicon X added power-adjustable front seats and premium leather upholstery. Despite its rugged nature, the Gladiator's interior was refined, though it remained loud on highways and retained quirks from the Wrangler.

The 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel was equipped with a standard 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and 4WD. It featured a part-time transfer case with 4-Hi and 4-Lo settings and a front-axle disconnect system for improved fuel efficiency. An optional Cummins 6.7-liter turbodiesel engine offered 370 hp and 850 lb-ft of torque with a six-speed automatic transmission. The diesel option increased the price significantly but provided better fuel economy, achieving 19.1 mpg on highways. The Rebel's towing capacity reached 16,870 pounds with the V8, while the Cummins offered a smoother ride. The truck's frame was made of 98.5% high-strength steel, and it included off-road features like 20-inch wheels, off-road tires, and skid plates. The Rebel excelled in various terrains, offering a refined and capable driving experience.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator retained its 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, with a standard automatic stop/start system. It offered a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission and four 4WD systems. The Gladiator could tow up to 7,700 pounds and had a payload capacity of 1,725 pounds. The Mojave trim was designed for desert running, featuring a front suspension lift, FOX shocks, and a locking rear differential. During testing, the Mojave handled dirt roads confidently and provided a sense of adventure. It performed well in urban settings, though road trips were less comfortable due to wind noise and steering feel. The Gladiator averaged 16.7 mpg during testing, slightly below EPA estimates.

Entering and exiting the 2023 RAM 2500 Rebel required physical effort, with large handles aiding the process. The interior featured a column shifter for the diesel engine, which felt less refined. Depending on the configuration, the truck offered cloth or leather upholstery with bench or bucket seats. The test vehicle had premium leather and bucket seats, providing comfort and convenience. The rear seat was spacious, with air vents, heated cushions, and storage options. The cargo box included features like a spray-in bedliner and LED lighting, with optional Ram Box storage bins.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator shared design elements with the Wrangler but had a unique frame and rear suspension. The five-foot steel cargo bed included a dampened tailgate and tie-downs, with optional upgrades like a bedliner and lighting. Interior storage was limited, with small bins and nets for smaller items. Climbing into the Gladiator was challenging, and running boards were discouraged for off-roading. The interior offered reasonable comfort, with new power-adjustable seats for 2024. Rear-seat passengers needed to be cautious of protruding hooks on the front seatbacks.

The 2023 RAM 2500 introduced a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel with customizable displays, controlled via steering wheel buttons. The truck featured advanced camera systems and trailering technologies, including blind-spot cameras and a digital rearview mirror. Trailer Reverse Steering Control was a new addition, simplifying trailer maneuvering. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system included a 12-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium sound system. The system was user-friendly, though glare was an issue for some displays.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator's most significant update was the 12.3-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, offering improved graphics and features. The system supported Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A TomTom navigation system was available, with access to Jeep Adventure Guides. The voice recognition system worked well for basic commands but struggled with complex queries. The display remained legible in bright light, and over-the-air updates kept the system current.

The 2023 RAM 2500 offered a range of advanced driving assistance systems, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. The systems performed well on open highways, though their effectiveness in dense traffic was untested. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the truck's size and weight provided a sense of security.

The 2024 Jeep Gladiator's safety ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA. However, the 2024 model included safety improvements, such as forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Structural enhancements and side-curtain airbags were added for occupant protection. Despite these upgrades, blind-spot monitoring was not standard on all trims.