If you’re wanting a vehicle that can go off-road, while still having the utility of a truck, then there’s two great options. There’s the Gladiator, and the Tacoma. With the Gladiator being the better option, we want to prove that to you. Here is the Gladiator and the Tacoma compared.
Key takeaways
- Despite having slightly lower MPG, the Gladiator has a better overall range compared to the Off-Road Tacoma.
- While the Tacoma offers more trims that are dedicated for use on the road, the Gladiator has a better towing capacity.
- The Gladiator has that open air feel that you’d associate with Jeep's, it even comes with specialized trims that can handle tough terrains.
Which can tow more: Gladiator
When it comes to trucks, even off road ones, people will still care about towing capacity, and we understand why. The Toyota Tacoma tries its best, delivering 6,500-pounds. But the Gladiator does it better. The Gladiator can tow 7,700-pounds, letting you do even more.
These max towing capacities are due to the engines that each trim has. Starting with the weaker Tacoma, the engine you can find on most trims is the 2.4L I4 that can produce 278 horsepower. The Gladiator has an even stronger engine. This is the 3.6L V6 that can produce 285 horsepower.
This gives whoever owns a new Jeep Gladiator the best blend of work, and play. Making it a dream for everyone who wants something they can depend on no matter what.
Which is better off-roading: Gladiator
When it comes to what is the best off-road, you can assume that anything Jeep puts out will more than likely take that title, and the Gladiator is no different.
Being that the Gladiator is basically a Wrangler with a bed, that means that it has the same off-road feel and features. You can hit the trails with the top off, and the doors removed, letting you feel nature in ways that the Tacoma can't replicate.
That’s not the only feature that give it a great off-road feel. When you go for a more specialized build, such as the Mojave, you’ll be in the first, and only, desert rated Jeep vehicle. This lets you hit the dunes without worry.
The other off-road monster is the Rubicon. This comes with part-time Rock-Trac, 33-inch All-Terrain tires, and an electronic sway bar disconnect with locking front, and rear differentials.
The Tacoma on the other hand isn’t an off-road vehicle in nature. It is a pickup truck first, and foremost. The only real “off-road” capability is the Off-Road trim. This comes with electronically controlled locking rear differential and part time 4WD. Other than that, that’s as off-road as you’ll get from this model.
Which has better gas mileage: Tacoma
While the Gladiator does excel at off-road terrain, that does come back to hurt it in this regard. While it does offer less MPG than the Tacoma, it still remains competitive.
The Gladiator has an EPA estimated 19 MPG combined. When paired up with the 22-gallon tank, this will get you 418 miles of total range. The Off-Road Tacoma has an EPA rated 21 MPG combined. Despite being more efficient, it has a lower overall range at 382 miles with its 18.2-gallon tank.
Why choose 2025 Jeep Gladiator over Toyota Tacoma.
You’d choose the Gladiator over the Tacoma because it’s more fun. It has better off-roading capability, while still providing even better work utility. Come on down to Alan Jay CDJR in Clewiston today for more info!