2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport: A Rugged Beauty Worth Exploring

When it comes to rugged trucks built for adventure, few can match the personality of the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport. This mid-sized truck offers off-road capability combined with everyday practicality. Whether you want to cruise through urban streets or take on remote trails, the Gladiator Sport is up to the task. In this review, we’ll cover the truck’s features, strengths, potential drawbacks, and why it stands out in the competitive off-road segment.

Overview of the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport

The 2021 Gladiator Sport is a versatile vehicle designed for those seeking both functionality and adventure. Built with Jeep’s iconic design, it shares many components with the Wrangler, though it adds a truck bed and increased towing capabilities.

It’s aimed at drivers who want the best of both worlds – the open-air freedom of a Jeep with the practicality of a pickup. With this truck, you can drive to the beach with your kayak, and haul supplies for a weekend camping trip.

Performance and Powertrain

At the heart of the Gladiator Sport is a 3.6-liter V6 engine that offers 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine has a good reputation in the Jeep family and performs admirably both on and off the road.

• Transmission options: You get a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an available 8-speed automatic.

• Towing capacity: The Sport model tows up to 7,650 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it one of the few midsize trucks that can double as a serious towing machine.

• Fuel efficiency: Expect around 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, which is typical for trucks in this category.

“Jeep didn’t just throw together a truck,” says Alex Collantes, an off-roading enthusiast and Gladiator owner. “They built a machine that feels like a Jeep first and a truck second.”

Off-Road Capability

If off-roading is your thing, the Gladiator Sport won’t disappoint. It comes with standard 4-wheel drive and a 2-speed transfer case, which means you can switch between high and low gears depending on your terrain.

• Ground clearance: 10 inches for easy passage over rocks and bumps
• Water-fording capability: Handles up to 30 inches of water thanks to strategically positioned air intake and drainage
• Skid plates: Protects underbody components from off-road obstacles

Optional Packages for Off-Roaders

1. Trail Rated Package: Adds locking differentials, rock rails, and off-road tires.
2. Cold Weather Group: For those planning winter adventures, this package adds heated seats and a remote start system.

While the Gladiator Sport performs impressively off-road, the ride on pavement can feel stiff, especially compared to some competitors like the Toyota Tacoma. Jeep has made improvements since the model’s introduction, but it’s still something to keep in mind if you plan on using it primarily as a daily driver.

Interior and Cabin Comfort

The interior of the Gladiator Sport reflects the ruggedness of the vehicle but comes with practical features to make your adventures comfortable. Basic cloth upholstery and plastic surfaces dominate the design, emphasizing durability over luxury.

“It’s not your typical luxury truck but that’s not what I wanted,” Collantes says. “What I wanted was something I wouldn’t feel guilty getting dirty.”

• Seating capacity: Fits five passengers comfortably. Rear legroom is decent, with 38.3 inches of space.
• Infotainment: The 5-inch display screen is basic compared to modern standards, but it offers Bluetooth and optional Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Storage: The rear seats can be folded for additional storage, and there are hidden compartments under the seats for valuables.

Cabin Drawbacks

Though the cabin offers excellent visibility and easy-to-reach controls, the materials feel a bit cheap, especially compared to rivals like the Ford Ranger. If you’re used to the creature comforts of luxury SUVs, the Gladiator Sport might feel too utilitarian.

• Noise levels: The cabin gets noisy at highway speeds due to the boxy design and removable roof panels.
• Infotainment quirks: The basic 5-inch screen lacks the sharpness and speed of modern infotainment systems.

Available Interior Packages

• Technology Group: Adds a larger 7-inch touchscreen and automatic climate control.
• Convenience Group: Includes remote start, universal garage opener, and additional USB ports.

Exterior Design and Features

The exterior of the Gladiator Sport is unmistakably Jeep. It carries the seven-slot grille, round headlights, and trapezoidal wheel arches that have become synonymous with the brand. But what really makes the Gladiator stand out is its removable top and fold-down windshield, giving it the unique distinction of being one of the few trucks that can offer an open-air experience.

Exterior Highlights

• Steel bumpers: Optional heavy-duty steel bumpers for extra durability on rough trails.
• Removable doors and roof panels: Allows drivers to feel the wind and sun while on the move.
• 17-inch wheels: Standard wheels with all-season tires. You can upgrade to off-road tires if needed.

However the truck bed is only 5 feet long, which might feel limiting for those who need more cargo space. The tailgate can be adjusted to several positions but it doesn’t match the utility of a full-sized truck.

Color Options

Jeep offers a variety of bold colors to choose from including:

• Firecracker Red
• Sting-Gray
• Hydro Blue

Safety and Driver Assistance

When it comes to safety the Gladiator Sport offers several standard and optional features.

• Airbags: Standard front and side airbags for driver and passengers.
• Rearview camera: A standard feature that assists with parking and towing.
• Adaptive cruise control: Available as an option in higher trims.

However the truck’s size and shape can make parking tricky in tight urban areas. Blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors are optional but not standard on the base Sport model.

Key Safety Features

1. Forward collision warning: Alerts the driver if a crash is imminent.
2. Blind-spot monitoring: Helps with visibility on highways and while changing lanes.
3. Electronic Stability Control: Keeps the vehicle stable during sudden maneuvers.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The 2021 Gladiator Sport starts at around $34,000. Jeep offers several trims and packages to suit different needs and budgets.

Trim Levels Overview

• Sport S: Adds more comfort features like power windows and locks.
• Overland: Aimed at those seeking more luxury with leather seating.
• Rubicon: The ultimate off-road version with enhanced off-road components.

While the starting price seems reasonable, adding too many packages can quickly drive up the cost. Some buyers might find that higher trims overlap in price with larger trucks, which could offer more value if towing and cargo space are a priority.

Final Thoughts on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Sport

The Jeep Gladiator Sport is a unique vehicle that blends Jeep’s adventurous spirit with truck practicality. It excels off-road and offers a fun open-air driving experience that’s hard to find in other trucks.

“It’s not perfect,” says Alex Collantes. “But if you want something that makes you feel alive every time you drive it the Gladiator Sport is the way to go.”

However the rough ride on pavement, limited tech features, and somewhat noisy cabin may not appeal to everyone. If you value smooth rides and quiet interiors more than off-road capability, you might be better off with competitors like the Honda Ridgeline or Chevrolet Colorado.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros

• Outstanding off-road capability
• Unique open-air driving options
• Strong towing capacity

Cons

• Stiff ride on pavement
• Basic interior materials
• Noisy cabin at higher speeds

The 2021 Gladiator Sport isn’t just a truck—it’s a statement. It’s for those who want to embrace adventure and live life boldly, even if that means sacrificing a little comfort along the way. If that sounds like you, this could be the perfect truck for your next adventure.