2026 Jeep Gladiator vs 2025 Jeep Gladiator
Are you asking yourself, "Should I buy a 2025 or 2026 Jeep Gladiator?" We've got answers! Our comparison guide takes a look at how these go-anywhere midsize trucks have changed from one model year to the next.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Gladiator introduces new trim models, paint colors, and upgraded door hinges (making it easier to remove the doors)!
- With identical 285-horsepower V6 engines and rugged four-wheel drive, both trucks are ready for your Central Florida adventures.
- The 2026 Gladiator offers six new Convoy trim models: Willys '41, 85th Anniversary Edition, Shadow Ops, Whitecap, Rockslide, and a yet-to-be-revealed option.
- Compared to the 2025 Gladiator (from $38,695*), the cost of a 2026 Gladiator (starting at $39,495*) has gone up only slightly!
2025 vs. 2026 Jeep Gladiator: What's the difference?
What's new for 2026, you ask? The latest Gladiator rolls out the Convoy lineup -- six new trim models, including the all-new Willys '41 special edition. With its modern capabilities and retro styling, this truck pays tribute to Jeep's iconic Kaiser M715 military pickup (special features listed below)! For more information on the other Convoy models, scroll down to our Trim Models section.
For 2026, Jeep's beloved purple paint, Reign, becomes a Gladiator option. A brand new color, Goldilocks, also joins the lineup. Then there are the Gladiator's new door hinges, designed for easier door removal -- and a quicker route to that feeling of open-air freedom! Plus, the Gladiator Sport S is now available with aggressive all-terrain tires, putting a friendly price on enhanced trail capabilities.
Special Features: 2026 Gladiator Willys'41
- 17-inch Olive Drab-painted wheels with mud-terrain tires
- Willys '41 tan seat inserts with Mantis Green cloth-wrapped mid-bolster
- Mojave hood with retro-inspired hood decal
- Steel front/rear bumpers
- Mopar triple hood grille guard
2025 vs. 2026 Jeep Gladiator: Performance
While Jeep has plans in the works for a plug-in hybrid Gladiator 4xe, it looks like 2026 won't be its year. And other questions remain. For example, will the 2026 Jeep Gladiator feature the Hurricane engine? Does this year's truck offer a V8?
While Gladiator customers may someday enjoy a few of these coveted engine options, the performance lineup hasn't changed for 2026. Though that's not a bad thing! Both midsize trucks churn up plenty of thrills with their standard 285-horsepower V6 and four-wheel drive. And both model years are equally ready for a trip to your favorite boat launch, with best-in-class trailering capabilities of up to 7,700 pounds!
| 2025 Jeep Gladiator | 2026 Jeep Gladiator | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L V6 (285 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque | 3.6L V6 (285 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | Eight-speed shiftable automatic | Eight-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD |
| Max Payload | 1,725 lbs | 1,725 lbs |
| Max Trailer | 7,700 lbs | 7,700 lbs |
2025 vs. 2026 Jeep Gladiator: Trim Models
We already introduced you to the new Gladiator Willys '41. But since Jeep is also celebrating their anniversary for 2026, you can also snag the limited Gladiator 85th Anniversary Edition this year! If you're interested in this truck's special styling (highlights listed below), make sure you put your order in ASAP -- production is limited!
Special Features: 2026 Gladiator 85th Anniversary Edition
- Steel Oxide wheels
- Available exterior colors: Granite Crystal, Black, White
- Bronze tow hooks
- Blue Agave exterior badging
- Plaid seat insert and 85th seat logo
- 85th Anniversary shifter medallion and cup-holder plaque
- 85th Anniversary instrument panel vent cover and mid-bolster wrap in Plaid
In fact, Jeep's new Convoy campaign lets you choose from six special-edition Gladiators for 2026: the aforementioned Willys '41 and 85th Anniversary, along with the Shadow Ops, Whitecap, Rockslide, and one truck that (as of this writing) has yet to be revealed.
And what about the rest of the trim lineup? With so many trim models and special editions, it can be hard to keep up with which type of Gladiator is available from one year to the next. Luckily, we've created a checklist to help you figure out where to start!
| Trim Model | 2025 Jeep Gladiator | 2026 Jeep Gladiator |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | ✓ | ✓ |
| Nighthawk | ✓ | |
| Sport S | ✓ | ✓ |
| Willys | ✓ | ✓ |
| 85th Anniversary Edition | ✓ | |
| Whitecap | ✓ | |
| Rockslide | ✓ | |
| High Tide | ✓ | |
| Big Bear | ✓ | |
| Texas Trail | ✓ | ✓ |
| Willys '41 | ✓ | |
| Sahara | ✓ | |
| Mojave | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shadow Ops | ✓ | |
| Rubicon | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mojave X | ✓ | ✓ |
| Rubicon X | ✓ | ✓ |
2025 vs. 2026 Jeep Gladiator: Pricing
The Gladiator costs a little more 2026 -- though not too much, with an MSRP of $39,495*. By comparison, these go-anywhere midsize trucks started at $38,695* for 2025. Of course, the final price of your Gladiator will vary according to trim level, options, and any local fees.
Whether you want to order the latest truck or get a great deal on the previous model year, we're here for you! Visit us in Bartow, FL, at Thunder Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram to test-drive your favorite Gladiator.
*MSRP as of 3/9/26. Subject to change.
