Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Gladiator |
| Generation | Gladiator (JT, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | Willys 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 (economy) – urban (EPA) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 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 | 7.6 kg/Hp, 131.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 162.8 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 | 2168 kg (4779.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2609 kg (5751.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 441 kg (972.24 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 | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 755 mm (29.72 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1296 mm (51.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 254 mm (10 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.56 m (44.49 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 40.8° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.4° |
| 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 | 8 gears, automatic 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 | 255/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
The Jeep Gladiator Willys 3.6L V6 Automatic, launched in February 2024 as part of the JT facelift, represents a significant offering in the mid-size pickup truck segment. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform, the Gladiator uniquely combines the open-air freedom of a Jeep Wrangler with the utility of a pickup truck. The Willys trim specifically evokes Jeep’s storied military heritage, offering a rugged aesthetic and enhanced off-road features. This variant aims to appeal to buyers who desire a capable and stylish truck for both daily driving and weekend adventures.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Gladiator Willys is the 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 engine produces 285 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 260 lb.-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (8HP75), providing smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is known for its wide gear ratio spread, aiding both fuel economy and towing capacity. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 with the eight-speed automatic delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance in the Gladiator Willys. Acceleration is sufficient for everyday driving and highway merging, but the truck’s considerable weight (over 4,700 lbs) is noticeable. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the available manual transmission, the automatic prioritizes convenience and ease of use, but sacrifices some driver engagement. The gear ratios are optimized for both on-road cruising and low-speed off-road crawling. While the higher-output 3.0L EcoDiesel and 6.4L HEMI V8 options offer significantly more power, the 3.6L provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Gladiator Willys trim comes standard with a host of features designed to enhance both its off-road capability and driver comfort. Standard equipment includes heavy-duty Dana 44 axles with a 3.73 rear axle ratio, a limited-slip differential, rock rails, and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Willys features cloth upholstery with unique Willys-branded embroidery, a Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. Optional extras include a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, premium audio system, leather upholstery, and various safety and convenience packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Gladiator Willys utilizes a robust body-on-frame chassis, providing excellent durability and off-road capability. The front suspension consists of a coil-spring, rigid axle setup with a transverse stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also features a coil-spring, rigid axle configuration with a stabilizer bar. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride on paved roads while maintaining excellent articulation for off-road terrain. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, measuring 330mm in the front and 345mm in the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Gladiator Willys has been well-received by critics and consumers alike. Reviewers praise its unique combination of off-road capability, open-air freedom, and pickup truck practicality. Compared to other mid-size pickups like the Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger, the Gladiator offers a more distinctive and rugged character. However, its fuel economy (19 mpg combined) is generally lower than its competitors. The Willys trim, in particular, is seen as a good value for buyers seeking a capable and stylish off-road truck. Compared to other Gladiator trims, the Willys offers a more aggressive aesthetic and enhanced off-road features at a competitive price point.
Legacy
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant in various Jeep and Chrysler vehicles. While not known for exceptional fuel economy, its robust construction and relatively simple design contribute to its longevity. The Gladiator Willys, with its combination of the Pentastar V6 and eight-speed automatic, is expected to hold its value well in the used car market. Its unique styling, off-road capability, and Jeep brand appeal will likely make it a desirable vehicle for years to come. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fluid checks, will be crucial to ensuring the long-term reliability of this powertrain.
