The Jeep Gladiator Mojave, specifically the variant equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, represents a compelling blend of off-road capability and on-road refinement. Introduced with the 2024 facelift of the JT generation Gladiator, this configuration builds upon the already robust foundation of the Gladiator platform, offering a dedicated trim level geared towards enthusiasts seeking a more capable desert-running pickup. Production began in February 2024, solidifying its place as a key offering in Jeep’s lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Gladiator |
| Generation | Gladiator (JT, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | Mojave 3.6 Pentastar V6 (285 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 125.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 285 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 79.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4400 rpm (260.36 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Pentastar / ERC |
| Engine displacement | 3604 cm3 (219.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2269 kg (5002.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2769 kg (6104.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2722 kg (6000.98 lbs.) |
| Length | 5539 mm (218.07 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 in.) |
| Height | 1857-1907 mm (73.11 – 75.08 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3487 mm (137.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Rear track | 1650 mm (64.96 in.) |
| Front overhang | 755 mm (29.72 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1296 mm (51.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 295 mm (11.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.62 m (44.69 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 44.7° |
| Departure angle | 25.5° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×22 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 285/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Gladiator Mojave is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, a mainstay of the Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge lineup for over a decade. Designated as the ERC engine code, this naturally aspirated engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 11.3:1 compression ratio contributes to its respectable power output. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the chassis. The eight-speed automatic transmission (8HP75) is a crucial component, offering smooth shifts and a wide gear ratio spread optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road crawling. This transmission is known for its durability and responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque delivered by the 3.6L Pentastar, when channeled through the eight-speed automatic, provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is sufficient for everyday driving and highway merging, but it won’t compete with turbocharged or V8-powered rivals. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth gear changes and holding gears appropriately during spirited driving. Compared to the manual transmission option, the automatic prioritizes ease of use over outright performance. The Mojave trim’s off-road focused suspension and tires do impact on-road handling, resulting in a slightly less precise steering feel than standard Gladiators. However, the trade-off is a significantly improved ride quality over rough terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Mojave trim sits above the base Sport and Willys trims, and below the Rubicon. Standard equipment includes features like a reinforced steel skid plate, heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, a locking rear differential, and off-road tuned suspension with FOX shocks. Interior features typically include cloth or leather upholstery, an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of driver-assistance features. Optional extras often include a premium audio system, navigation, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Gladiator Mojave utilizes a robust body-on-frame chassis, providing a solid foundation for off-road adventures. The suspension features coil springs, rigid axles, and a transverse stabilizer bar both front and rear. The Mojave benefits from a factory lift, increasing ground clearance to 11.6 inches. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The tires, typically 285/70 R17 all-terrain tires, contribute significantly to both on- and off-road grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Gladiator Mojave has been well-received by automotive critics and enthusiasts alike, praised for its unique combination of off-road capability and everyday usability. Fuel economy, however, is a common criticism, with the 3.6L V6 returning around 19 mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Rubicon trim, the Mojave prioritizes high-speed desert running over extreme rock crawling. The Rubicon offers features like an electronic disconnecting front sway bar and a shorter gearing ratio, making it more adept at navigating technical trails. The base Sport and Willys trims offer better fuel economy and a lower price point, but lack the Mojave’s dedicated off-road hardware.
Legacy
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and the eight-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good longevity. While long-term reliability data for the 2024 Mojave is still emerging, the underlying powertrain components have a solid track record. On the used car market, the Gladiator Mojave is expected to hold its value well, particularly among enthusiasts seeking a capable and well-equipped off-road pickup. Its unique blend of features and its position as a desirable trim level should ensure continued demand for years to come.
