New Jeep Gladiator launched in South Africa – Pricing and features

Jeep has quietly launched the facelifted Gladiator in South Africa.

Our eagle-eyed sources at Duoporate Vehicle Information Specialists alerted us to the fact that the new bakkie is now available on the company’s website.

The updated Gladiator made its debut in the Unites States almost two years ago and was initially expected to arrive in South Africa in the third quarter of 2024.

In any case, it has finally appeared in local showrooms in a single Rubicon specification, with prices starting at R1,399,900.

This makes it the second most expensive bakkie in the country after the Ineos Quartermaster, placing ahead of the Ford Ranger Raptor in third.

Each purchase comes with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and a 3-year/100,000km maintenance plan.

Performance

Under the hood is a 3.6-litre naturally-aspirated V6 petrol engine, which pumps out a total of 209kW and 347Nm.

This is distributed to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, leading to an average fuel consumption of 12.3l/100km.

Assuming you top up the 83-litre tank, you’ll get a driving range of 675km.

Regarding its off-road potential, the Gladiator has an approach angle of 43.4 degrees, a break-over angle of 20.3 degrees, and a departure angle of 26.0 degrees.

It has a ground clearance of 280mm, and can wade through up to 800mm of water.

The Jeep can also tow up to 2,721kg, and haul 693kg in the load bed.

Features

The mid-life update has given the bakkie a subtle visual rework, starting with the grille.

The seven-slot grille now has a textured black finish with smaller gaps, which the automaker claims is better for cooling.

It also has a new set of 17-inch alloy rims wrapped in off-road tyres and a “stealth” antenna integrated into the front windshield – replacing the previous mast antenna.

More significant changes can be found inside, as the double cab has a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The hands-free voice recognition system has been improved, and users can now connect up to two Bluetooth devices at once.

The safety fittings have been expanded, too, with new curtain airbags for both seat rows.

Jeep also stated that the body has been reinforced to provide better side-impact protection.

Worth noting is that the Gladiator has retained its most unique selling point, namely the ability to detach the doors and roof for a more exhilarating outdoor driving experience.

2025 Jeep Gladiator