What Jeep Gladiator Model to Get - a Full Review

Before you buy a new Jeep Gladiator know what model is best for you. This video is a full Jeep Gladiator review! Plus, some money saving tricks.
About twice a week I have customers come into the shop right before they go to the lot to purchase their new Jeep Gladiator. They ask "what model do I purchase." They want a full review since I have one myself and have build a bunch of others. This video is a rundown of just that! Plus, a few tricks to help you save some money.
Who are we? A custom Jeep shop in central Texas. We build Badass Jeeps. Each episode I take you to work with me. Enjoy our Builds, Tips and Off-Road Adventures.
Our website is exodus4x4.com
Contact me at 830-629-0057 or [e-mail] for a build quote.
For general questions post below, I always try to answer.
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This video was edited by the talented Gabe Hodge.
For the Legal Loons: This video was independently filmed and produced by Exodus 4x4. The opinions and actions of the individuals featured are in no way affiliated with or attributable to the products shown.
Jeep gladiator review | Jeep Gladiator Rubicon | Jeep Gladiator 2020 | Jeep Gladiator Interior | Jeep Gladiator Sport | Jeep Gladiator Overland | Benny Boyd Dodge | Jeep Review | Jeep Gladiator Model | Jeep Gladiator Comparison
#JeepGladiator #GladiatorReview #ItsAJeepThing #offroading #JeepLife #GarageVlog

[@jamesclark7248]

On a comparison video like this, it would have been helpful to show the sticker price too.

[@spankthatmonkey2]

I was thinking the same

[@Iceman-bu1eg]

Or Google?

[@travelcampingblacksmithing786]

MSRP various monthly from what I noticed

[@MM-sq5pf]

They don't want to terrify us

[@jasont7814]

Thank you for your service Mike. A veteran and a Jeep enthusiast 🇺🇸

[@jorgemedrano7562]

Awesome Video and Thank You for the knowledge on the trim levels and advice.

[@nohabloemojislosiento4930]

I have 2 Toyota trucks and have zero interest in ever owning a jeep, but I want you to know I watched this whole thing and thought it was a great review.

[@terrizMcall6063]

The sons of Nippon would be proud of you,,,

[@johnrpittman5078]

⁹⁹⁹⁹⁰0⁰8

[@jonathanholland3898]

@@terrizMcall6063 YES, we R!

[@lorddrake8566]

I own toyota and lexus but jeep is more fun to drive by far

[@rs5200]

You rarely see old jeeps on the road. There's a reason they're called HEEPS!

[@ramseyhazemey795]

Really enjoy this video. First time seeing your channel. Now I want a Gradiator! Thx. Well done!

[@lightningblue648]

Love the video. Hoping to buy a Gladiator this week. Looking at buying a North Edition with leather. I rarely go off road and miss my Wranglers. This seems like the perfect vehicle for me and the right trim. Thanks again for the great video.

[@12Bravojeepstuff]

I built mine with the max tow package, hard top, and bed liner. Came out to be 38k. No dealers around me carry that same Jeep for the price it came out to online. Huge markup.

[@justiceandliberty9724]

Hi, when you build it do you pay the amount specified at Jeep.com? Is there any way to negotiate a lower price when you build your own?

[@bassdojo3925]

I'd like to know as well.

[@billonbuilding284]

That was great. Exactly the info I needed. Thanks😀

[@superbcomplex]

Phenomenal review. Exactly what I needed.

[@pauljordan756]

Great info!!!! I am shopping JT's now and you gave the BEST insights I have seen so far. THANK YOU - new subscriber due to this video!

[@jamespugh]

Same

[@johnthibodeaux5189]

I have 35s on sport S with max tow and still have 8th gear.

[@1946jeeplover]

Great video, interesting tidbit about the fenders and the lip for the tow package

[@rrg5054]

Excellent Review. Thought I knew some stuff but it’s like I always say…It’s what you learn after you know it all that matters😎

[@cgscprspecialist3937]

Awesome video as always honest great information.

[@marine1989100]

Just bought a Gladiator Texas Trail. I’m loving it so far and my first jeep as well. Not sure about ask the trims but she’s got it.

[@krasnaludek298]

Excellent video; no nonsense presentation. 👍🏻

[@dannation8837]

Thanks for letting us know how to identify Max tow. You're the man

[@jacobzeigler435]

this video made me rethink about getting the rubicon. I want to mod and upgrade a lot but it is just way too expensive.

[@ivalles120]

Alright, A Sport S for me. Thanks for the video!

[@TorqueWagon]

Great explanation of the trim packages. I’m looking to get a gladiator soon and this was really helpful.

[@AmericanStandardK9]

Keep up the good work. Subscribers will come. Good content

[@jimmybell2402]

Just found your channel and am really happy I did. It’s been a while since I had a truck and I have to say the Gladiator is growing on me. While the Chevy/GMC may be a little more conventional looking- I’ve read all about their issues. The once dominant Tacoma shit the bed when they went 3.5 and tried to squeeze mpg. I hate Ford, long story. Honda? Well - it’s “nice” but for me it’d be like working on the farm in August wearing my Sunday suit. I look forward to seeing more of your videos with the Gladiator. Be safe Thanks

[@TheToeIsUp]

4:10 alright you got a good chuckle out of me with that bit.

[@stephenhookephotography8669]

Great reviews. Thanks for doing this.

[@66skate]

I think the Overland is what I'd choose. I want one for strictly on road use and have a lot of options already installed. The only things I'd probably do myself is add a tonneau cover, the insulting panel kit for the 3 piece hardtop and locking hood latches.

[@BetaBuxDelux]

Smart. I’m probably picking up a Mojave but the Overland is probably the better choice for me. The dealer is supposedly giving me discounts on the Mojave. We’ll see.

[@dylanlevin]

Super informative just what I've been looking for

[@jdofmemi]

Nice tip on how to ID the max tow version 👍

[@phrogusmc]

I had to point out to the salesman that I bought my Gladiator from how to spot the Max Tow versions. *facepalm*

[@joshuadufresne2655]

@@phrogusmc009

[@PuRpL3DrAnKinMYsippy]

Man I'm digging that Gator Green on the Overland.

[@ericpierce4041]

You earned a new sub like and bell , about 80 ish miles from you been thinking about a Gladiator for bit ,good info and now I know how to spot the max tow probly saved me a ton of money watching this video 👍

[@drillbittreed10]

Now this is an info video . I'm so glad you made it because it helped me make up my mind. And with you being a Texas boy i have to subscribe .

[@Exodus4x4]

Glad I could help!

[@brettpatron2822]

I agree. This was such a well done, informational video.

[@tomasrivera1211]

Thanks, very important information to buy a gladiator.

[@trialbyfirehomestead6810]

Great video. Thanks for doing it. I'm waiting for the ecodiesel. Keep up the good work.

[@Exodus4x4]

Thanks man! I just did a ecodiesel review last week. Go check it out.

[@enginepy]

This was a super helpful video

[@mariaangelina3936]

Thanks for all the great information.🌻

[@stevetabor4447]

Good job crazy seeing your gladiator next to the stock ones should try an hook up with the dealer an merge exodus models be pretty cool if so as always be safe 👍

[@tungol00]

In my opinion the sweet spot is the soft top sport, with trailer tow package (max tow in Canada), 7inch touch with alpine stereo and my favorite part of it is the ecodiesel engine. I bought mine a 2021 model in 2022 great rebates $60,660 Canadian out of the door. Although you get 7600 lbs with the pentastar it doesn't like the hills it's revving at around 4-5k rpm, I still prefer the ecodiesel (even with only 6500lbs max) it pulls with less effort always a lot of reserved torque for passing (with an RV lol!) and you get amazing fuel economy with a trailer (5000 lbs).

[@HoloHoloAdventures]

Great video. 👍🏽 We picked the Overland. My husband was initially wanted the Sport. The only thing I wish we had on our model is the 8.4 inch screen.

[@Sss18sss]

Do you have a 7' now? Even with a 5' it's very easy! There is TONS of info on the forums about switching it out and it's extremely easy - All plug and play, no issues. I have ZERO experience with all that and I did mine myself. I believe the screen is about $1000 (don't quote me).

[@creekerjk]

Thanks for the video it was very helpful

[@John_Henry83]

I would want a Gladiator for Occasional off road use but day to day city and highway driving. So I would prefer a standard transmission. I do not mind shifting and I think the manual would increase my gas mielage.The only thing that I would want from the smart model would be AC and cruise control for long highway trips. All the power this and power that and LCD screens to me is something else that could go wrong when I least suspect it.

[@amrynthegreat4842]

Been looking for jeeps and your channel helped , new sub

[@Exodus4x4]

Thanks! Good luck with the buy and let us know if we can help out.

[@avnmech]

10:18, totally agree about the camera.

[@lancedyck3730]

Great video! Very informative

[@seadoo4life127]

I like the Willys. Nicer rims and tires plus Rubicon suspension.

[@jesuschristislord7754]

Very informative, thanks.

[@MarkTodd33]

Very helpful! Thanks

[@Exodus4x4]

You’re welcome!

[@Spotlightadrian1]

Great video!

[@sidelias]

Cheers bro Straight from Australia!!!

[@chriscartwright2811]

the other benefit of the sport s max tow package, 'almost free' upgrade to 33" tires from all the guys that bought rubicons and took the wheels off right away, 245/75R17 to 285/75r17 for minimum cash :)

[@cbailey2486]

Great video, thank you my brutha ✊🏾. Made my decision easier

[@Sean_thompson_bass]

JT sport, max tow package with 4.10 gears and dana trac lok rear differential, and you're good to go.

[@Worldexplorer2390]

video starts at 1:31 (Sport Trim) 3:30 Overland Trim 8:18 Rubicon Trim 12:12 "cool" options/upgrades 13:45 Sport S Max Tow Package

[@somebodyandthem]

Thanks

[@gerard0l6569]

He forgot the Mojave option.

[@tofuman7456]

@@gerard0l6569 I bought the mojave 😎

[@thedigitalnomad2795]

@@gerard0l6569she said the company had no intention leep 12:26

[@kawanisumills]

NIce review thanks!

[@XRPirates_Booty]

Good job on your review 👍

[@roadkingrider6532]

I’ve never owned a Jeep. My truck has 230,000 miles on it so looking at a Mojave Gladiator. I’m not into the rock crawling (yet). I’ve always wanted a Jeep though and Ive always had trucks. I appreciate your review!

[@billyboblemon207]

Thank for your help sir.

[@MikeMike-bn9ys]

Thanks Mike so I guess I’m getting the rubicon I do want to raise it 2 inches and get 37 on them. Maybe easy to medium off-roading and that’s all. Some snow guess rubicon it is ha Thanks for the review was great!

[@keenankinder6657]

That vice grip garage's (best youtube channel ever!!!) intro music... Very good information video.

[@Exodus4x4]

Its the music KZbin channels dont have to pay for lol

[@edward3342]

I'm glad I got my gladiator sport in a 6spd manual. Driving my automatic on my 18 JL was so boring.

[@JoshuaTootell]

Not a single manual in ANY Jeep within 250 miles of me. Crazy.

[@lquidsp]

This is such a useful video

[@dennismarkakis1478]

I bought a 2021 sports s with 3.73s and the ecodiesel motor. Lifetime powertrain warranty. With 28k miles. Hardtop. Love it. $43k out the door.

[@vinmad6669]

NICE ------ very interesting video _______ thanks bro !!

[@Exodus4x4]

🤘😎

[@masjut1]

Great video. Thanks

[@robertclymer6948]

Hi Guys! With 4:10 gears, I am assuming with the 8 speed trans, RPM's at highway speed would not be a problem? Also, you said the sport comes with roll up windows? What exactly does that mean compared with other models? Thanks for any feedback.

[@ryanmartinage]

The Sport S with the max towing package is I think the best value. I am going to wait on the diesel to see if I jump from the JLU.

[@mmarshall9240]

The diesel is going to have less towing capacity than the max-tow sport. This is due to cooling capacity.

[@ryanmartinage]

@@mmarshall9240 tow even 5k lb behind the v6. It will screaaam. The diesel will have much nicer manners.

[@jamespugh]

@@ryanmartinage here you like the diesel options. Kind wondering when we will see it. Seen you can start ordering wrangler with it .

[@briangodfrey704]

I ordered the diesel with the tow package but you're calling it a "max tow package" Are they the same. With the Rubicon they say 373 gears but can I get the 410s? I won't receive my Rubicon diesel until May 2022 and I'm going to be running 35s but would love to put 37s on it with only a 2 inch lift and I did get the LED package but no soft top because I think it's just a pain in the ass especially here in Canada

[@MMID303]

I'm going Sport S, with Alpine stereo, with max tow to get the 4.10 gearing. Adding 2.5 inch lift, 17" wheels and 35" tires.

[@Exodus4x4]

Awesome, you’ll love it!

[@TacticalMainframe]

Great video

[@TheHorlickrebel]

Which 2" spacer lift kit would you recommend? I've seen mixed reviews, but I'm not able to spend $1000+ on a full lift kit at this point. However, I do want to get it lifted so I can get 35s on right away. And if I can get away with a simple, quality spacer kit, seeing as I won't do any serious off-roading, I'd prefer not to spend $1000+ on a full kit.

[@bdbrinkley5504]

Mainly using it for road use and Grass trails ...so 2021 Gladiator Sport S ?? over the other models of the Gladiators ??

[@Mikeycrzed]

Sport s Max tow is the one 👍

[@jefflyon4601]

Great video as always, Love seeing the bad ass gladiator next to the stock one’s.my favorite channel

[@GladiatorGang]

A big chunk of our "Suggested Video Views" roughly 20% of all suggested videos is this one, so we figured we'd pop in, say thanks for the views and then watch this video. We've talked with you on Instagram about the issues you had when boosting the Pentastar, won't say anymore about that disaster. Anyway, keep the content coming. Thanks the traffic and looking forward to seeing more. Can't wait to do a Hemi Swap in ours, hopefully this fall, but most likely in the spring of 2021.

[@offroad_adventures2934]

Awesome video. Thanks. Are the front and rear aftermarket lockers out yet? If yes, could you share a link please?

[@Exodus4x4]

There are a few different brands out there but I don’t have links

[@rveurope]

Great vid, i would wonder whether a truckcamper could be carried on these?

[@CharlesAlexanderJr]

@8:12 that hurt. I've been eyeballing the Overland for a few months now, 🤣

[@GOAT-xd5sn]

I subscribed n watch the next video !

[@TJIzzy]

What about electronic swaybar disconnect? I've just seen manual for the sport s

[@kennethsillers2310]

I just got the willys edition. It looks fantastic.

[@GP9railfan]

I’m looking at getting a Willy’s edition. How do you like it?

[@kennethsillers2310]

@@GP9railfan I love it. It’s a great package

[@kennethsillers2310]

@@GP9railfan I love it. It’s got mid level trim. Not a rubicon but not a sport either. But it’s got mud terrains and rubicon suspension. I really enjoy it b

[@paullindsley6754]

Best info yet... thanks

[@Exodus4x4]

Thanks. I need to make an update to this one since the newer models are out.

[@paullindsley6754]

@@Exodus4x4 I have a decently built jk.. thinking about a change. I've been looking at a used gladiator. Interested in the sport max s after watching this video. My jk is a sport, but is no longer a sport... lockerd, gears, etc. Thanks for the info

[@Exodus4x4]

Honestly I’d go with a Rubicon. I haven’t seen anything but ARB lockers out there and I’d like to see an Eaton.

[@paullindsley6754]

My jk has eatons.. I also snagged a xfer case out of a wrecked rubi. And all has been good. It would not be my daily, so I have alot to think about. I'm in the Dallas area. Where are you guys located?

[@Exodus4x4]

New Braunfels! If you don’t mind the drive we can help you out.

[@lisakamphues4089]

Purchase to 2020 gladiators Mike hooked us up on Discounts

[@georgeshotrodbarn2113]

Good info

[@andrewyoung-n8ary]

The “little lip” is most likely due to the wider axles in the max tow package.

[@IlovePumping]

...and the special all-terrain tires.

[@mikeandre9903]

Love everything about this vehicle except for the rim and tire package makes it look stupid but I guess each to their own

[@GyspyDave]

Max tow has wider upgraded axels , that's why the fenders have the extra coverage.

[@CaptainRudy4021]

Right but they're the same width as the axles on the Rubicon yet the Rubicon doesn't have that lip

[@blackstratus2664]

Passenger Fender flare on the Rubicon is from an Overland, and Driver side is from a Rubicon. You can see the height difference. Most likely a factory mix up.

[@Exodus4x4]

Ha!

[@doncampbell3088]

Is the 6 spd manual still available?? Thats the one option i really want.

[@John-vh1fk]

I really liked the gladiator but had to pass on it because of how they package it. Was fine with a Sport S but the proximity key is NOT AVAILABLE on the Sport S! Why have push button start if you don’t get a proximity key? Seems like a small thing but once you have that, it’s hard to go back. So I thought I’d get the Overland, then I find out that the Max Tow is NOT AVAILABLE on that trim! I can’t figure that one out. Next step up to get both of those options is the Rubicon but the Rubicon is more than I wanted to spend and is overkill for what I’d be using the truck for. Keep lost a sale because of their stupid packaging of options.

[@melvin5818]

The willy with the xr package is more then what anyone needs. Skip on the Alpine stereo a aftermarket system will blow that out of the water.

[@almmalivree1918]

Do you recommend the overland for the luxury but still doing the build up like yours

[@onememories8523]

Greta video ! Thank you for sharing. If I run 35s tires on the Rubicon model, do I really need to re-gear?

[@Exodus4x4]

Not necessarily but you’ll definitely gain a lot of power back.

[@onememories8523]

@@Exodus4x4 thank you for responding. How about any other models with 35s?

[@eliorwildhunt7709]

What about the diff locks or sway bars after market ?

[@Reuben_rmr]

I’m about to buy a rubicon gladiator in Australia. It’s 2000mi away on the other side of the continent. Can’t wait to get my 37’s on, wish I could run Dana60’s but in Aus we have to have wheels in the flares on road 😢

[@jamespugh]

Awesome video. Been looking at gladiator for awhile. And jk 4 doors. Always said the Rubicon is not worth the money that sport s is best option. You have any idea when lockers will be advaliabe? For max tow? Also when will the 3.0L ecodiesel be offered. I seen the wrangler just got them offered for ordering.

[@Exodus4x4]

I don’t. At some point it will happen though.

[@joelsmithers6887]

Overland, max tow, steel bumpers n rubs, mud terrains.

[@OrganizedMud]

Awesome video, thanks! I only wish you’d mentioned what gearing you’d go with for the entry level with 37s you described. Max tow package Sport S, 2” lift, 37s, aftermarket lockers, and re-gearing. I’d love to hear your recommendation for the lift, lockers if available now, and gearing, for this poor man’s capable gladiator. Also, keeping in mind for many of us maintaining best towing capability possible with the setup. My goal is to haul a reasonable toy hauler with my Harley to the mountains- camp, ride, and Jeep. 🏴‍☠️😎👍

[@mays9185]

4.88

[@JohnLee-ig1sq]

all beautiful trucks but personally I would go for that white rubicon.

[@Shattered_Times]

I just bought a white Mojave

[@TopoPilot]

I bought the Mojave in black... It's an incredible vehicle really. I love it!

[@PNWLiving1725]

Man, I want to be able to tow, I wonder if the max tow package it

[@TopoPilot]

@@PNWLiving1725 Mine has the tow package. I can tow 6000 lbs. That's not much, but it lets me tow my motorcycles and snowmobiles.

[@Joelotto124]

Nice video . Is it better to go with the new Mohave. I know it doesn’t have front lockers. What locker do you recommend for the front on the Mohave. Thanks

[@Exodus4x4]

I personally don’t think it’s worth buying a Mojave and then putting a locker in. If you want a front locker, buy a Rubicon.

[@The-Jokes-on-You]

So how about the manual transmission vs automatic? I've heard they've had issues with their manuals, any truth to this?

[@hughtrain]

First.. i'm so glad I found your channel! We need an updated version of this video. Especially with the new models and options. But perhaps you can still answer. IS the sport s with the Max tow package still the best case purchase for someone who is just looking to put 35's (Maybe 37's)on with a minimum lift kit? Also, the sport s doesn't offer a body color roof... but comes with body color fenders. Is there an aftermarket, or MOPAR roof in body color to purchase? I'm definitely not going to be rock crawling, so i don't think I will ever need the Rubicon "accoutrements" with sway disconnects etc. The new 7" uconnect audio isn't terrible compared to the 8.4 upgrade. Also, maybe a video on a "poor man's" gladiator.... cheapest route to getting a "bad ass jeep".... Thanks for your time.. keep up the videos!!! I'm learning a shitload...

[@Exodus4x4]

Maybe we should update it!

[@kenjepsen4579]

@@Exodus4x4 That would be cool.. Just ordered a Willys unlimited for the wife and I'm bouncing between the Sport S w/tow pkg and the Mojave.. Mostly street and beach but want at least 35's maybe 37's.. Hate the looks w/ 33's and no lift lol

[@05Tacoman]

Yeah man, quick question. Just bought a sport gladiator with the max tow package. Looking to add a traction device in the rear. Something like a lock rite locker. I don’t do very much off-roading and nothing real technical. I plan on a small lift and 35’s. What would you recommend, and what should I expect? Thank you

[@Exodus4x4]

Haven’t really seen an option for those lockers yet. My advice is to wait until OX releases one.