2023 Jeep Gladiator vs 2023 RAM 1500

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator retained much of its previous design, with only a few updates such as the introduction of a new High Velocity Yellow paint colour and added standard equipment for the Willys model. The High Altitude model received a new Capability Package, which included a winch-capable steel front bumper, steel rock rails, and a front off-road camera system. The Canadian lineup offered six trim levels, starting with the Sport S trim at $52,295 and reaching up to $68,890 for the High Altitude trim, excluding destination charges. The Gladiator Mojave, our test model, was equipped with features like Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, a 2.5-centimetre front suspension lift, and 33-inch all-terrain tires, making it ideal for high-speed desert driving. Despite its higher price, the Gladiator offered unique features such as a removable top and doors, and a diesel engine option, setting it apart in the midsize pickup truck segment.

Inside, the Gladiator's design was reminiscent of the Wrangler, featuring easy-to-clean plastic and rubber materials, with drain holes in the floorboards for easy maintenance. The Mojave model added orange detailing and contrast stitching to enhance the cabin's quality. While the interior was basic, it offered a sense of rugged charm. The Gladiator's longer wheelbase and fortified frame for pickup truck duties gave it a distinctive appearance, though the proportions were not universally appealing. The Mojave model's hood scoop and high-clearance fender flares added to its unique look, while the interior's orange accents and fabric seats with patterned inserts contributed to a higher sense of quality.

The 2023 RAM 1500, available in quad cab or larger crew cab configurations, offered a range of trim levels, with the Limited trim sitting near the top. Our test model featured the Night Edition package, which added a stealthier look with 22-inch black aluminum wheels. Inside, the Limited trim boasted a luxurious interior with leather seats, contrasting stitching, and open-pore wood on the dash. The 12-inch portrait-oriented screen provided a unique look, allowing for dual-functionality, such as displaying audio and navigation simultaneously. The RAM 1500's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with features like heated and cooled front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and a spacious centre console.

The RAM 1500's crew cab configuration offered ample rear legroom, with reclining rear seats for added comfort on long trips. The multifunction tailgate and optional air suspension made loading and unloading cargo easier, while the RamBox storage system provided secure storage for tools and equipment. The RAM 1500's interior was well-equipped with technology, including a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and a surround-view camera system. The truck's infotainment system, while initially confusing, was well-organized and offered features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator offered two engine options: a standard 3.6-litre V6 with 285 horsepower and an optional 3.0-litre turbodiesel V6 with 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. The turbodiesel engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was designed to improve fuel economy rather than towing capacity. The Gladiator's Command-Trac part-time four-wheel-drive system was standard, with options to upgrade to Selec-Trac or Rock-Trac systems on certain models. Our Mojave test model featured the gas V6 engine and Command-Trac with a locking rear differential, achieving an average fuel consumption of 13.6 L/100 km.

The Gladiator's off-road capabilities were impressive, with the Mojave's Fox shocks providing excellent performance on rough terrain. However, the truck's length made navigating tight spaces challenging, and the interior noise levels were high. The Gladiator's powertrain delivered good low-speed throttle response, but passing power was limited. Despite its faults, the Gladiator offered a unique driving experience, with its suspension upgrades enhancing both off-road and urban driving.

The 2023 RAM 1500 offered a range of engine options, including a 3.6-litre V6 with eTorque, a 5.7-litre Hemi V8, and a 3.0-litre EcoDiesel engine. The TRX model featured a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 with 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The eTorque system provided better fuel economy and additional torque at takeoff, while the V8 engine delivered strong performance with 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.

The RAM 1500's ride quality was exceptional, thanks to its coilover rear suspension and available air suspension. The truck's steering was accurate, and the 14.9-inch brake rotors provided confident stopping power. The RAM 1500's towing capacity varied depending on the configuration, with a maximum of 5,783 kilograms (12,750 pounds) and a payload capacity of up to 1,043 kilograms (2,300 pounds). The truck's Trailer Tow package offered features like Trailer Reverse Steering Control, making towing easier for inexperienced drivers.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator's interior required some practice to navigate, especially when entering or exiting the back seat through the narrow rear doors. Optional side steps were more of a hindrance than a help, as they interfered with the truck's ground clearance and off-roading capabilities. The manually height-adjustable driver's seat was comfortable, but required regular readjustment. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were available, though they came at an additional cost.

The Gladiator's rear seats offered good legroom and support, but taller passengers might find the plastic front seatback panels uncomfortable. Storage options included netting on the door panels, cupholders, and a deep but narrow centre armrest bin. The Gladiator's steel cargo box, while lacking depth, offered features like a spray-in bedliner, tonneau cover, and Trail Rail Management System. The truck's best-in-class payload capacity of 775 kilograms (1,710 pounds) added to its utility.

The 2023 RAM 1500's interior was designed for convenience, with numerous storage options, including a two-tiered centre console and a spacious glove compartment. The front seats were heated and cooled, with power-adjustable pedals for added comfort. The crew cab configuration provided ample rear legroom, with reclining seats and a flat floor for easy cargo loading. The multifunction tailgate and optional air suspension made accessing the cargo area easier, while the RamBox storage system offered secure storage for tools and equipment.

The RAM 1500's interior was well-equipped with technology, including a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and a surround-view camera system. The truck's infotainment system, while initially confusing, was well-organized and offered features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The RAM 1500's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with features like heated and cooled front seats, power-adjustable pedals, and a spacious centre console.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator, despite its rugged appearance, offered a range of technology features. The Mojave test truck included an Off-Road+ driving mode and an optional TrailCam forward-facing camera. The Uconnect touchscreen infotainment system, available in 7-inch and 8.4-inch sizes, offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. The larger system included navigation, connected services, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, the voice recognition system was less reliable, often failing to understand commands.

Additional tech features included a passive keyless entry system and a dual-zone automatic climate control system with an air filter. The Gladiator's infotainment system, while not the most advanced, provided essential features for a satisfying driving experience.

The 2023 RAM 1500 received a tech upgrade with a new reconfigurable 12-inch gauge cluster, though it was not available on our test model. The truck's infotainment system, available in 5-inch, 8.4-inch, and 12-inch sizes, offered dual-functionality and the ability to connect two phones simultaneously. The Uconnect system, while initially confusing, was well-organized and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Our test model featured the optional Equipment Group 1, which added a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera system. The RAM 1500's interior was equipped with multiple USB outlets, a wireless charging pad, and 115-volt and 12-volt outlets, ensuring all devices could be charged during road trips.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator offered a limited range of standard safety features, with optional packages available for additional technologies. Our test vehicle included SiriusXM Guardian Services, offering features like SOS emergency calling and automatic collision notification. The optional Safety Group added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors, while the Advanced Safety Group included adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning.

The Gladiator's safety ratings were mixed, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a four-star frontal-impact protection rating. The IIHS rated the truck's headlights as Marginal, even with the optional LEDs.

The 2023 RAM 1500 lacked standard advanced driver-assist systems, with features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control available as options or part of a package. The truck's blind-spot monitoring system could cover the length of a trailer, providing added safety when towing.

Despite the lack of standard driver aids, the RAM 1500 crew cab received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS gave the truck Good marks across most categories, with Marginal grades for seat belt reminders and LATCH ease of use. The Limited, Longhorn, and TRX headlights received Good ratings, while other trims were rated Marginal.