The Jeep Gladiator Mojave 3.6 Pentastar V6 4×4, introduced in February 2024 as part of the JT facelift, represents a compelling blend of off-road capability and on-road refinement within the Gladiator lineup. Positioned as a dedicated off-road trim, the Mojave builds upon the Gladiator’s already robust foundation, offering enhanced suspension and features tailored for tackling challenging terrain. This variant utilizes Jeep’s well-established 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission, and is designed for drivers seeking a capable and versatile pickup truck with a focus on adventure. It slots above the base Gladiator trims and below the more luxurious Rubicon models, offering a unique balance of features and price.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Gladiator |
| Generation | Gladiator (JT, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | Mojave 3.6 Pentastar V6 (285 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | February, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.9 kg/Hp, 126.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156.3 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 | 12.3 l (13 US qt | 10.82 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2259 kg (4980.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2759 kg (6082.55 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%) | 2041 kg (4499.63 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 (Back) 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 (turning diameter) | 13.62 m (44.69 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 44.7° |
| Departure angle | 25.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 285/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Jeep Gladiator Mojave, launched for the 2024 model year following the JT facelift, is a pickup truck specifically engineered for high-speed off-road performance. Building on the Gladiator’s already impressive off-road credentials, the Mojave adds a host of specialized components and calibrations to enhance its capabilities in desert and rocky environments. It’s a direct response to demand for a Gladiator variant that prioritizes performance in open terrain, differentiating itself from the more rock-crawling focused Rubicon. The Mojave’s design philosophy centers around providing a comfortable and capable experience for drivers who frequently venture beyond paved roads.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Gladiator Mojave lies Jeep’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, designated as the ERC code. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 24-valve DOHC powerplant featuring multi-port fuel injection. The Pentastar engine is known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its reliability. The 6400 rpm peak horsepower and 4400 rpm peak torque figures are achieved through careful tuning of the engine’s variable valve timing system. The six-speed manual transmission is a durable unit designed to handle the engine’s output and the demands of off-road driving. While an eight-speed automatic transmission is available on other Gladiator trims, the Mojave exclusively offers the manual for drivers who prefer greater control. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive bias, coupled with the part-time four-wheel-drive system, provide a traditional truck-like driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, paired with the six-speed manual transmission, delivers a balanced driving experience in the Mojave. While not exceptionally quick, the engine provides adequate power for both on-road cruising and off-road climbing. The manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, crucial for maintaining momentum on challenging trails. The gear ratios are well-suited for both low-speed rock crawling and higher-speed desert running. Compared to the Rubicon, which often prioritizes low-end torque for rock crawling, the Mojave’s gearing feels more geared towards maintaining speed across varied terrain. The Mojave’s enhanced suspension, featuring FOX 2.5-inch remote reservoir shocks, significantly improves ride quality and control, especially when compared to standard Gladiator models. This allows the vehicle to absorb bumps and maintain stability at higher speeds off-road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Mojave trim comes standard with a number of features designed to enhance its off-road capability and comfort. These include heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, a reinforced frame, and a higher ride height. Inside, the Mojave typically features cloth or leather upholstery, a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and available features like navigation and premium audio. Standard safety features include a rearview camera and available advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras for the Mojave can include a hardtop, power-adjustable seats, and various off-road accessories such as a winch and rock rails.
Chassis & Braking
The Mojave’s chassis is specifically tuned for off-road performance. The heavy-duty Dana 44 axles provide increased strength and durability, while the reinforced frame enhances torsional rigidity. The suspension system, featuring FOX 2.5-inch remote reservoir shocks, offers improved damping and control. The front suspension utilizes a coil spring and rigid axle setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also employs a coil spring and rigid axle configuration with a stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps maintain control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Gladiator Mojave has been well-received by automotive critics and off-road enthusiasts alike. Reviewers have praised its enhanced off-road capability, comfortable ride quality, and distinctive styling. Compared to the standard Gladiator and the Rubicon, the Mojave occupies a unique niche, offering a balance of performance and refinement. While the Rubicon excels at rock crawling, the Mojave is better suited for high-speed desert running and general off-road exploration. Fuel economy, as with most trucks in this class, is not a strong point, averaging around 19 mpg combined. Reliability has been generally good, mirroring the Pentastar V6’s reputation for durability.
Legacy
The Gladiator Mojave represents a significant step forward in Jeep’s off-road pickup truck offerings. Its focus on high-speed off-road performance has resonated with a growing segment of drivers who demand both capability and comfort. The combination of the proven Pentastar V6 engine, durable six-speed manual transmission, and specialized suspension components has created a vehicle that is both fun to drive and highly capable. As the Gladiator continues to evolve, the Mojave’s influence is likely to be felt in future iterations, potentially inspiring further refinements and specialized trims.
