Jeep Gladiator Powers into 2026 with New Features, New Colors and New Packages

Jeep reintroduced the Jeep Gladiator in 2019 as a 2020 model. Part Wrangler and part pickup, the Gladiator is Jeep’s first truck since the automaker discontinued the Commanche in 1992. Jeep Gladiator sales languished after the company raised prices and did little updating. Now, the 2026 Jeep Gladiator is getting new life with a new package and new features. 

New for 2026

The Jeep Gladiator is getting an enhanced door hinge system makes door removal quicker and easier than ever. One of the most iconic things about the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator is the ability to take the doors off and be closer to the great outdoors. The new hinges will make it even easier to remove the doors and also to put them back in place. It is important because the automaker wants to make fans happy, but the doors also have to be strong enough to withstand side impact crashes. 

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator has a new model called the Willys ’41. As I reported earlier, the new military -inspired trim package pays tribute to the Kaiser Jeep M715 military truck with rugged styling. The Kaiser Jeep pickup was based on the Jeep that was used in World War II but added a truck bed. The Kaiser Jeep M715 was used in the Vietnam conflict in the 1960’s.

The Gladiator is also adding optional larger, all-terrain tires for Sport S trim, so the Gladiator can perform even better while off-roading. In 2026, the Gladiator maintains the same powertrain. It carries a 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The Gladiator has 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Originally, Jeep planned to add a 4xe edition of the Gladiator this year, but that has been tabled as Stellantis reevaluates its plans for electrified vehicles. Demand has fallen drastically and the automaker is balancing tariff concerns and actual demand for future EVs. 

In 2026, the Gladiator will add new limited-edition exterior colors, including Reign and Goldilocks.

2026 Jeep Gladiator Capability

The Jeep Gladiator is one of the most capable mid-size trucks on the market with the ability to tow up to 7,700 pounds. Maximum payload is up to 1,720 pounds. Jeep’s off-road performance is legendary. The Gladiator has a maximum crawl ratio up to 77:1. The Gladiator comes with several advanced 4x4 systems including Command-Trac, Rock-Trac and Selec-Trac.

The Gladiator is built for off-roading and designed to have unparalleled approach and departure angles. Its approach angle is 44.7 degrees, departure angle is 26 degrees and its breakover angle is 20.9 degrees. The Gladiator has with 11.6 inches of ground clearance which is enough to clear almost any obstacle on the trail. The Gladiator is capable of up to 31.5 inches of water fording.

2026 Gladiator Model Lineup

• Sport
• Sport S
• Willys
• Mojave
• Rubicon

In 2026, the Gladiator will add new limited-edition exterior colors, including Reign and Goldilocks.

The Jeep Gladiator and its Jeep Wrangler sibling are built at the Toledo Assembly Complex. The new Ram mid-size truck is also supposed to be built in Toledo but I’m not sure if it is slated for the same facility.

The 2026 Jeep Gladiators are in dealers now. 

Jeep Photo

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

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