The midsize truck segment has plenty of options when you’re looking for a vehicle that combines utility, capability, and comfort. Among the more notable choices are the Jeep Gladiator and the Ford Ranger. These two options are excellent options if you’re in the market for a pickup. Let’s take a closer look at how the 2024 models of these trucks stack up against each other to help you decide which is right for you.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator’s lineup is as diverse as the terrains it conquers. The Sport trim kicks things off with a starting MSRP of $37,895, offering fantastic value for its versatility. Stepping up to the Sport S ($41,990) brings added convenience and tech features, perfect if you crave more refinement without breaking the bank. If you’re seeking a dash of nostalgia and style, the Willys trim ($45,590) adds a unique flair to the Gladiator lineup.
If you’re craving ultimate off-road prowess, the Mojave ($53,590) and Rubicon ($53,590) trims will satisfy even the most demanding adventurers. The Mojave X ($63,590) and Rubicon X ($63,590) take things to the next level with enhanced features and capability, ensuring you’re always ready for the most challenging trails.
The 2024 Ford Ranger has fewer trim levels. The base XL trim (starting MSRP of $32,670) offers a solid foundation with all the essentials for your off-road excursions. Stepping up to the XLT ($35,610) adds a touch of refinement and comfort, perfect for daily driving duties. The top-tier trims are the Lariat ($43,630) and the Raptor ($55,470).
Exterior Design
The Jeep Gladiator effortlessly merges the rugged spirit of the Wrangler with the practicality of a pickup truck, boasting a head-turning design that’s all about fun and freedom. With its removable top and doors, fold-down windshield, and new paint options, such as Anvil, every ride is a thrilling escape. The Mojave X and Rubicon X trims come with steel bumpers, giving the 2024 Gladiator an even more commanding presence.
Meanwhile, Ford’s revamped Ranger exudes confidence with its bold front-end styling reminiscent of its larger F-150 sibling. Opting for the XLT trim ensures a sleek upgrade, featuring LED exterior lighting, stylish 17-inch aluminum wheels, and power-folding side-view mirrors.
Performance
The Jeep Gladiator and Ford Ranger offer impressive performance. The Gladiator’s 3.6-liter V-6 engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, providing a solid balance of power for various tasks. Its off-road capabilities are remarkable, and it is equipped with features such as skid plates and rock-crawling axle ratios, making it a true adventurer’s companion.
In contrast, the Ford Ranger has three powertrain options. The base is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine generating 270 horsepower, ample for everyday driving. This is lower than what the 2024 Gladiator offers across the board. If you’re craving more power, the Lariat has an available 2.7-liter V-6 engine churning out 315 horsepower, while the Raptor comes with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 with an output of 405 horsepower. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Towing and Payload Capacity
When properly equipped, the Gladiator boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, with even the base model capable of pulling a 4,000-pound trailer. Its cargo bed can handle between 1,105 and 1,700 pounds of payload, allowing it to carry a lot of gear and equipment.
Meanwhile, the Ranger holds its own with a towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds and a respectable maximum payload rating of up to 1,711 pounds. In this Jeep vs. Ford comparison, the Jeep Gladiator has the advantage because of its higher tow rating and comparable payload capacity.
Interior
The Jeep Gladiator and Ford Ranger offer impressive interiors tailored for modern adventurers. The Gladiator features a rugged yet user-friendly design reminiscent of the Wrangler, featuring durable materials and convenient controls. Options like heated seats and a heated steering wheel ensure comfort even in harsh conditions. The Gladiator’s spacious cabin, enhanced by a stretched wheelbase, provides ample legroom for your rear passengers. Its versatile seating configurations and clever storage solutions make it perfect for everyday and off-road excursions.
The Ranger boasts a sleek, modern cabin with a digital gauge display and integrated controls for a seamless driving experience. Its thoughtful storage solutions, including hidden compartments and spacious door pockets, keep your gear organized and easily accessible.
With five seats in its SuperCrew cab configuration, the Ranger offers ample space for passengers and cargo alike. Whether you prefer the rugged versatility of the Gladiator or the modern sophistication of the Ranger, both trucks deliver comfort, convenience, and practicality for all your adventures.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Gladiator is equipped with a generous 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional upgrades include a premium stereo system with a subwoofer and a portable wireless speaker. Your front-seat passengers will appreciate the abundance of power points, including two USB ports and a USB-C port, along with a 115-volt outlet for added convenience.
In contrast, the Ford Ranger offers a standard 10.1-inch infotainment display, with the option to upgrade to an even larger 12.4-inch vertically oriented screen. With Ford’s latest SYNC 4 interface, accessing the Ranger’s controls is seamless. Features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital gauge display are standard. Expect extras such as in-dash navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and SiriusXM satellite radio to enhance your driving experience.
Safety
When it comes to safety, both the Jeep Gladiator and Ford Ranger offer commendable features. The Gladiator provides standard side-curtain airbags for both rows. Higher trims offer helpful features such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The Ranger comes with standard forward collision warning and automated emergency braking, with advanced features available in higher trims or through option packages. Additional safety tech includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing overall safety.
Discover Your Ultimate Adventure Companion
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator and Ford Ranger are excellent choices for a pickup, but the Gladiator edges ahead with its impressive towing capacity, robust infotainment system, and rugged off-road capabilities. To learn more about this Jeep truck, contact us at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram (CJDR) Lewisville in Lewisville, Texas. Our team can also help you explore our other new vehicles from CJDR and provide more details about our manufacturer incentives so you can get behind the wheel of your chosen vehicle in no time.