Jeep has quietly rolled out the facelifted Gladiator in South Africa, bringing the refreshed lifestyle bakkie to local showrooms after a long wait.
Industry insiders first spotted its arrival on Jeep’s official website, confirming that the updated model is now officially on sale. The new Gladiator was unveiled in the United States nearly two years ago and had originally been scheduled for a local launch in the third quarter of 2024.
Price and Positioning
The Gladiator is being offered in a single Rubicon trim, with prices starting at R1,399,900. This makes it South Africa’s second most expensive bakkie, sitting just behind the Ineos Quartermaster and ahead of the Ford Ranger Raptor.
Each purchase includes a 5-year/100,000km warranty and a 3-year/100,000km maintenance plan.
Engine and Capability
Powering the new Gladiator is a 3.6-litre naturally aspirated V6 petrol engine delivering 209kW and 347Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox that drives all four wheels.
- Fuel Consumption: 12.3l/100km (average)
- Tank Capacity: 83 litres, offering an estimated 675km driving range
- Towing Capacity: 2,721kg
- Load Capacity: 693kg
Off-road figures remain a highlight, with an approach angle of 43.4°, break-over angle of 20.3°, departure angle of 26°, 280mm ground clearance, and 800mm water-wading depth.
Design Updates
Externally, the facelift introduces subtle but effective changes:
- Redesigned seven-slot grille with a textured black finish and narrower openings for improved cooling
- New 17-inch alloy wheels fitted with off-road tyres
- A sleeker stealth antenna integrated into the windshield, replacing the old mast design
Interior and Technology
The most notable upgrades are found inside the cabin. The Gladiator now comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other updates include:
- Improved voice recognition system
- Support for two Bluetooth connections simultaneously
- Expanded safety suite, including curtain airbags for both rows
- Reinforced body for better side-impact protection
Adventure-Ready Appeal
Despite the updates, Jeep has preserved the Gladiator’s most distinctive feature removable doors and roof panels, offering drivers the chance to enjoy open-air adventures unique to the brand.
The refreshed 2025 Jeep Gladiator blends rugged utility with modern tech, reaffirming its role as one of the most capable lifestyle bakkies on the market.
Key Features of the 2025 Jeep Gladiator
| Feature | Specification / Detail |
|---|---|
| Price | R1,399,900 (Rubicon trim only) |
| Warranty | 5 years / 100,000km |
| Maintenance Plan | 3 years / 100,000km |
| Engine | 3.6-litre V6 petrol |
| Power & Torque | 209kW / 347Nm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic, 4×4 |
| Fuel Consumption | 12.3l/100km |
| Tank & Range | 83 litres / ~675km |
| Ground Clearance | 280mm |
| Water Wading Depth | 800mm |
| Approach / Departure / Break-over Angles | 43.4° / 26° / 20.3° |
| Towing Capacity | 2,721kg |
| Payload | 693kg |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch screen, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| Safety | Curtain airbags, reinforced body |
| Unique Feature | Removable doors and roof |
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