2021 Jeep Gladiator vs 2021 RAM 1500

The 2021 RAM 1500 was a continuation of the redesign that began in 2019, maintaining its established configurations of quad cab or crew cab models. The crew cab offered a choice between a five-foot, seven-inch bed or a six-foot, four-inch bed, with options for rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The standout for 2021 was the introduction of the TRX model, which drew inspiration from off-road rally races. The TRX was a crew cab-only 4x4 with a five-foot, seven-inch box, boasting a commanding presence with its functional hood scoop, massive grille, and fender vents. Despite its rugged exterior, the TRX's interior offered first-class comfort and technology, featuring premium materials and a 12-inch Uconnect infotainment display.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator was crafted by stretching and fortifying the Wrangler's frame, resulting in a unique midsize pickup with a five-foot cargo bed. Its design initially appeared odd due to its tall, long, and narrow proportions, but it quickly won over drivers with its off-road capabilities. The Gladiator introduced a new Willys grade and a High Altitude luxury model, expanding its appeal. The interior, while not focused on comfort, provided durable materials and essential storage spaces. The Gladiator's cabin closely resembled the Wrangler's, emphasizing utility and purpose, with small design details that fostered a sense of belonging to the Jeep community.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX was equipped with a 6.2-litre supercharged Hemi V8 engine, delivering an impressive 702 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse allowed the TRX to accelerate to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 190 km/h. Despite its performance prowess, the TRX's fuel consumption was high, averaging 22.4 litres per 100 km in the city. The TRX excelled in various driving scenarios, from city commutes to off-road adventures, thanks to its eight on- and off-road drive modes and segment-exclusive four-corner air suspension. The TRX's off-road capabilities were showcased at the Wild West Motorsports Park, where it handled challenging terrains with ease.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator offered a new 3.0-litre EcoDiesel turbo-diesel V6 engine, providing 260 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. This engine option improved fuel efficiency, averaging 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The Gladiator's towing capacity reached up to 3,469 kilograms with the standard engine, while the diesel variant offered a towing capacity of up to 2,948 kilograms. The diesel engine's low-end torque made it ideal for off-road adventures, effortlessly tackling tough trails with the Selec-Speed off-road cruise control system. On paved roads, the Gladiator exhibited its characteristic charm, with a stiff ride and wind noise, but the turbo-diesel engine added to its appeal.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered a spacious interior with front headroom and legroom measuring 1,038 mm and 1,040 mm, respectively, and rear seats providing 1,011 mm and 1,147 mm. The cabin featured ample storage spaces, including a large centre storage bin. The TRX's seats were comfortable, and the powered-adjustable pedals enhanced the driving experience. The truck's exterior included full-length rock rails for added protection and a full-size spare tire. Despite its larger exterior proportions, the TRX maintained the same interior dimensions as the standard RAM 1500.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator prioritized utility over comfort, with agreeable seats but limited rear legroom and small door openings. The truck's side steps or rails, while preserving breakover angle, made entry and exit challenging. In-cabin storage included netting on door panels, a small centre console bin, and a locking storage bin under the rear seat. The Gladiator's steel cargo box measured 1,531 mm in length and held 1,005 litres of cargo, with multiple tie-down hooks and an adjustable tailgate. Payload ratings varied depending on trim level, engine, and transmission.

The 2021 RAM 1500 featured a 12-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect 4C infotainment system, offering customizable displays and performance pages for vehicle calculations. The system included wireless charging, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, and a 10-speaker Alpine audio system. A new full-colour head-up display provided real-time driving information. However, the touchscreen's glossy finish attracted fingerprints, and its positioning was not driver-centric.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator offered the Uconnect 4 system with a 7-inch touchscreen, standard in Canada, with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The High Country trim featured the Uconnect 4C system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and navigation. The system was user-friendly but showed signs of aging with slow response times. The Gladiator also introduced a forward-facing Trail Cam for off-road adventures, aiding drivers in navigating obstacles.

The 2021 RAM 1500 TRX offered over 100 safety and security features, including forward collision warning and advanced driver-assistance systems. A rear backup camera was standard, with an optional Advanced Safety Group package for a 360-degree view and additional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Passive safety included an auto-reverse feature for windows and sunroof, and an enhanced accident response system.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator's standard safety features included a reversing camera, with optional upgrades for advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The test truck included these features, enhancing safety during freeway driving. The NHTSA awarded the Gladiator a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating.