From Dale Wickell,
Your Guide to Trucks.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!

Jeep Gladiator Truck

Jeep showed us the Gladiator concept truck at the Detroit Auto Show in 2005. If some form of this concept truck ever goes to production it should satisfy everyone who's been waiting for a new Jeep truck.

The Gladiator concept truck has an open-air canvas roof, removable doors and a fold-down windshield, all features that allow its occupants to feel in touch with the outdoors. The Gladiator's expandable truck bed and extra storage compartments enhance its cargo carrying abilities.

The Jeep truck is powered by a 2.8-liter, 4-cylinder common-rail turbo diesel engine that provides 163 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Gladiator has a 6-speed manual transmission and a part-time transfer case.

The truck's front and rear suspension are multi-link designs, and coilover shocks are used at all four corners. The rear has dual, concentric springs and the vehicle has a 1,500-pound payload.

The Gladiator's ground clearance is 13.7 inches, with a break-over angle of 23.2 degrees, an approach angle of 47.6 and departure angle of 38.0 degrees. Front and rear tires are 34 inches and are mounted on 18x8 inch wheels.