What's the Difference: Jeep Gladiator vs Toyota Tacoma

 

Jeep Gladiator vs Toyota Tacoma

Adventurous Pembroke Pines outdoor enthusiasts know that pickup trucks are the ultimate blend of utility and practicality.

Two of the best midsize pickup trucks available are the Jeep Gladiator and the Toyota Tacoma. From heading to Highland Hammocks State Park to tailgating at the Dolphins game or hauling a boat to Lake Okeechobee, the Gladiator and Tacoma are capable and comfortable. Each truck offers four-wheel drive, a high payload capacity, and ample tow ratings along with a comfortable, modern interior that has features like Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®. Despite their similarities, there are some major differences between the Gladiator and the Tacoma.

The versatile Gladiator is like a mashup between the Jeep Wrangler and a midsize truck. While the Tacoma is legendary in its own right, it is still just a truck. Tacoma models come in two body styles, an Access Cab and a Crew Cab, along with two different bed lengths. Unlike the Tacoma, the Gladiator offers a removable top along with a fold-down windshield and one bed length. Gladiator models come standard with four-wheel drive and one body style plus they have a variety of powertrain options, including a fuel-efficient EcoDiesel.

Let's dig into more details that separate these two tough trucks.

Jeep Gladiator vs Toyota Tacoma

Features Jeep Gladiator Toyota Tacoma
Fuel Economy 16 MPG City - 23 MPG Highway 18 MPG City - 22 MPG Highway
Engine
  • 3.6L Pentastar® V6
  • 3.0L EcoDiesel V6
  • 3.5L V6
Drivetrain 4WD RWD or 4WD
Bed Length 60″ 60.5″
Seating Capacity 4 4
Towing Capacity 4,500 - 7,700lbs Up to 6,400lbs

What's the Difference: Jeep Gladiator vs Toyota Tacoma

Reliability and Quality

Despite Toyota's reputation for quality, the Jeep Gladiator earns a reliability rating of 85/100 from J.D. Power vs 83/100 for the Tacoma.

In addition to the higher reliability rating, the Jeep Gladiator offers a high-quality interior that is outfitted with premium, yet durable materials and plenty of onboard technology. To get the job done out in the backcountry, the Gladiator also has a fully reinforced frame and heavy-duty chassis components across every model.

Toyota has a reputation for durability and quality and the Tacoma is no exception. Every Tacoma is built to a high standard of quality and both the interior and exterior show the years of experience that Toyota has building trucks. As good as it is, the Gladiator offers a similar level of quality with many more features.

Performance and Efficiency

Off-road performance is where these trucks really shine, but the Gladiator is more capable straight from the factory.

Every Jeep Gladiator comes with four-wheel drive and a powerful V6 engine that cranks out nearly 300 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but an eight-speed automatic is optional across the lineup. Engine options include the gas-powered V6 and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine that pushes out 442 lb-ft of torque at a low RPM for serious rock-crawling fun. Upgraded models like the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon get a Rock-Trac® 4x4 System with Tru-Lok® Electronic Locking Differentials and Off-Road+ capability. Depending on the engine, you can expect fuel economy performance of 22 city / 28 highway MPG*. Towing capacity is a stout 7,700 pounds**.

On the other hand, the Toyota Tacoma offers rear-wheel drive as standard equipment, but four-wheel drive is optional across several models. A 159-horsepower four-cylinder engine is the base engine, while a 278-horsepower V6 is optional. The Tacoma comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and a manual transmission is also available. Towing capacity comes in at 6,400 pounds** and fuel economy is up to 18 city / 22 highway MPG*. Off-road enthusiasts will want to check out the TRD Pro or TRD Off-Road models with their increased ground clearance, upgraded chassis, and more.

Safety and Driving Assistance

Despite their off-road focused missions, both trucks have plenty of safety equipment.

Jeep Gladiator models offer optional features like a 360° Surround View Camera, ParkSense® and ParkView® parking assistance, Blind Spot Monitoring, Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Toyota Tacoma models offer Toyota Safety Sense™ P, their legendary Star Safety System™, an integrated Backup Camera with Rear Parking Sonar, and a Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Infotainment and Technology

One of the areas where the Jeep Gladiator really shines is the high levels of smart technology on board.

Standard technology includes a seven-inch Uconnect® 4 system touchscreen that has Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay®. Tech enthusiasts will want to check the option box for the 8.4-inch Uconnect® system which has high-quality graphics and additional off-road functionality. There's also a TrailCam on board Rubicon models to get a perfect view of what's in front of the Gladiator. The Amazon Alexa Skill comes standard on Overland, Rubicon, and Mojave models, allowing you to control your Jeep vehicle from your phone with just your voice.

Tacoma models offer an optional eight-inch touchscreen and an optional JBL® Premium Audio System. Destination Assist allows Tacoma owners to connect with a live agent for real-time assistance with navigation and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot helps everyone stay connected.

Shop Jeep Gladiator Near Pembroke Pines, FL

Adventurers near Pembroke Pines, Ft. Lauderdale, Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, and Pompano Beach looking for a truck with serious off-road capabilities should make AutoNation Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Pembroke Pines their first stop. We carry the best selection of new Jeep vehicles in the Pembroke Pines area, along with used Jeep models that have passed our stringent 125-point inspection.

Once you're ready to take a Gladiator home, our in-house finance center will secure you a lease or loan that fits your needs and your budget. Have a trade-in? We accept trade-ins from all brands and can work the value of your vehicle right into the purchase of a Gladiator. It's just that easy.

After purchase, come back to AutoNation Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Pembroke Pines for all of your service and maintenance needs. From oil changes to installing accessories, our team of Jeep enthusiasts is here to help.

*Preliminary EPA-estimated figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on speed, driving habits, trip length and driving conditions; actual mileage may be lower. Note for MPGe: All data are provisional and subject to official confirmation. The provisional power consumption figures have been calculated based on the ECE test cycle. **Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up, and loaded properly, and that you have any necessary additional equipment. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment.