2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland: A Bold Adventure Awaits

If you’re in the market for a truck that’s ready for off-road adventures while offering everyday practicality, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland should definitely be on your radar. It merges the ruggedness of a Jeep with the utility of a midsize pickup, creating a vehicle that’s both fun and functional. But like any other vehicle, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland stand out, what to expect from it on and off the road, and whether it might be the right fit for your lifestyle.

Overview of the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland

The Gladiator Overland is the trim that balances off-road capability with upscale features. It positions itself between the base Sport and the higher-end Rubicon, targeting those who want adventure without compromising comfort. Unlike many trucks, the Gladiator is built on the same platform as the Jeep Wrangler but with the added benefit of a 5-foot bed. This means you get Jeep’s signature off-road DNA plus the utility of a pickup—something few vehicles offer in a single package.

• Engine Options: 3.6L V6 (gasoline) or optional 3.0L EcoDiesel V6
• Towing Capacity: Up to 7,650 lbs
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic
• Price Range: Starting around $41,000

Exterior Design

When it comes to aesthetics, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland commands attention. With its boxy frame, iconic seven-slot grille, and squared-off wheel arches, it’s unmistakably Jeep. The Overland trim adds a touch of refinement, featuring body-colored fenders, chrome accents, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

You also get the option to remove the roof, doors, and even fold down the windshield, just like the Wrangler. This feature makes the Gladiator Overland a unique vehicle—there are not many trucks on the market where you can go open-air driving.

Pros

• Iconic Jeep design with modular roof and door removal
• Premium exterior touches set it apart from base models
• Plenty of color options to suit individual tastes

Cons

• The removable roof can result in more cabin noise than conventional trucks
• Windshield design can make the vehicle prone to stone chips
• Not as aerodynamic as other trucks leading to reduced fuel efficiency on highways

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2021 Gladiator Overland blends rugged practicality with some upscale features. It comes with leather-trimmed seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and optional heated front seats. The dashboard design is simple and user-friendly, with plenty of knobs and buttons that can be used even when wearing gloves—a thoughtful feature for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system is easy to navigate and offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. It’s one of the better systems in the industry, though the graphics could feel a bit dated to tech-savvy users. You also get several USB ports and a 115-volt outlet in the rear for added convenience.

Cargo and Space

Though the Gladiator Overland offers solid passenger space in both rows, the truck bed might feel a bit short at 5 feet for those used to full-size trucks. However, Jeep provides integrated tie-downs and cargo management solutions to make the most of the available space. There’s also in-cabin storage under the rear seats for smaller items.

Pros

• Spacious cabin with rear legroom better than some competitors
• Advanced infotainment system with smartphone integration
• Thoughtful storage solutions both in-cabin and in the bed

Cons

• 5-foot bed may feel limiting for some buyers
• The interior design might feel too utilitarian for luxury-minded drivers
• The infotainment screen could use more modern graphics

Performance on and off the road

The 2021 Gladiator Overland is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. For those who want better fuel economy, the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel offers 260 horsepower and a hefty 442 lb-ft of torque. Both engines provide decent power, though the gasoline V6 might feel underwhelming when towing heavy loads.

Where the Gladiator really shines is off-road. With solid axles, a high ground clearance, and Jeep’s Command-Trac 4x4 system, it’s ready to tackle trails right out of the box. However, the Overland trim is more tuned for light off-roading than hardcore trail use—leave that to the Rubicon.

Driving Impressions

Alex Collantes, an avid off-road enthusiast, shared his thoughts on the Gladiator Overland after taking it on a weekend adventure. “The Overland is a nice blend of capability and comfort. It’s perfect if you’re not looking to crawl over boulders every weekend but still want to hit some trails now and then.”

Pros

• Smooth ride on the highway for a vehicle with off-road chops
• Diesel option offers great torque and towing capability
• Command-Trac 4x4 system delivers solid performance in light off-road situations

Cons

• Gasoline engine feels a bit underpowered for towing
• Ride can feel bouncy on rough roads due to solid axles
• The Overland trim lacks some of the off-road features found in the Rubicon

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is one area where the 2021 Gladiator Overland faces some criticism. With the gasoline V6, the Gladiator gets an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Opting for the diesel improves those numbers to 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, but it also comes with a higher upfront cost.

Pros

• Diesel engine offers competitive fuel economy for the segment
• Gasoline engine provides decent mileage for light-duty use

Cons

• Fuel economy lags behind more aerodynamic trucks
• Diesel option adds a premium to the price tag

Safety Features

Jeep has equipped the Gladiator Overland with several driver assistance features, though it doesn’t offer as many advanced systems as some rivals. Standard features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, some more modern features like lane-keeping assist are either optional or unavailable.

Pros

• Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring included
• Rearview camera helps with parking and trailer hookups

Cons

• Some competitors offer more advanced safety tech as standard
• Optional safety packages can drive up the cost

Price and Value

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland starts at around $41,000 making it more expensive than some midsize truck rivals. Adding options like the diesel engine or a premium sound system can push the price closer to $50,000. While the Overland trim offers a good mix of features and capability, buyers should carefully consider whether they need the extra comfort it provides over the base Sport or the extreme capability of the Rubicon.

Pros

• Competitive pricing for an off-road-ready midsize truck
• Good resale value thanks to Jeep’s strong brand reputation

Cons

• Options can quickly increase the final price
• Some rivals offer better value with more standard features

Final Verdict

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland is a unique offering in the midsize truck segment. It’s perfect for those who want the versatility of a pickup without giving up the fun and freedom that comes with a Jeep. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The ride can feel a bit rough on certain terrains, the bed is smaller than what you’ll find on some competitors, and the fuel economy leaves room for improvement.

Still, if you’re looking for a truck that can handle both the daily commute and weekend adventures, the Gladiator Overland is hard to beat. Alex Collantes sums it up perfectly: “If you love the open-air experience and want a vehicle that can do a bit of everything, the Gladiator Overland is an excellent choice. Just be ready to make a few compromises along the way.”

• Should You Buy It? If you’re after a capable midsize truck with Jeep’s DNA and don’t mind some trade-offs in ride quality and fuel economy, the Gladiator Overland deserves a test drive.

In conclusion, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Overland offers an exciting combination of off-road capability and on-road comfort. It’s not a truck for everyone but for those who crave adventure and versatility, it’s a compelling choice that’s hard to ignore.