If you are choosing between the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk and Mojave, there are some big differences that set the two apart in their trim levels. It really comes down to how you plan to use your truck. When you’re behind the wheel in either of these, you’re going to get the full Jeep “open-air” experience; however, the Nighthawk’s focus is on being bold and stylish, while the Mojave is purpose-built for high-speed desert off-roading. Let’s break down where they differ and why it matters.
Key Takeaways:
- Despite the stylish focus, the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk is significantly more affordable
- The Jeep Gladiator Mojave is built tough, with extra customizations just for specialized off-road performance
- There is a stark contrast in suspension, off-road hardware, and ride tuning between these two trims.
What is Under the Hood of the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk?
Both the Gladiator Nighthawk and Mojave are powered by Jeep’s powerful 3.6L Pentastar V6, producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It is also paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. There are a lot of mechanical considerations when it comes to Jeep’s engines, because of how critical it is for durability on any trail.
The towing capacity for both trims reaches up to 7,700 pounds, while payload capacity ranges around 1,200–1,300 pounds, depending on whether you configure it more for towing or not. In case you’re curious, to get that maximum capacity, Jeep offers the Max Tow Package for either trim. This adds a Class IV receiver hitch, upgraded engine cooling, heavy-duty alternator, wider rear axle, and revised suspension tuning.
What is the Starting price of the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk?
The Nighthawk starts in the mid-$40,000 range, while the Mojave pushes into the mid-$50,000s. That price jump is driven almost entirely by suspension engineering, reinforced components, and off-road hardware, not engine or size differences. You’re paying for capability, not cosmetics. If you won’t use the Mojave’s desert-tuned upgrades, the Nighthawk delivers better value. The Mojave is also the only Gladiator trim engineered specifically for high-speed desert driving.
It features FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, a factory 1-inch lift, reinforced frame components, skid plates, and a wider stance for stability at speed. Jeep even re-tuned the suspension to reduce harsh impacts over washboard roads and rough terrain. In other words, if you regularly drive fast over sand, dirt, or uneven terrain, the Mojave’s suspension dramatically improves control and comfort.
Why Should I Purchase a 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk?
If you normally keep your Jeep to paved roads, the Nighthawk may be your ride. Both trims share the same crew cab layout, offering generous rear-seat legroom and four-door convenience. Interior space is identical, but the feel is different. The Nighthawk leans into a simpler, durable interior with cloth seating and fewer luxury elements. It’s really easy to live with and easy to clean. To match its dirt-driving focus, the Mojave adds more rugged interior accents, bolstered seats, and better seat support during aggressive maneuvers.
What is the Styling Like for the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk?
The Nighthawk stands out with blacked-out exterior accents, dark wheels, and a more aggressive, but street-oriented appearance. It’s designed to look bold without signaling extreme off-road intent. With black exterior accents and popular colors like Black Clearcoat, Granite Crystal Metallic, Bright White, and Hydro Blue, you can see how this trim has a cleaner, more urban appearance that still feels rugged, just not extreme.
The Mojave looks the part of a serious off-road machine, with orange accent badging, reinforced underbody protection, rock rails, and higher ground clearance. It's often paired with bold, high-visibility colors like Nacho, Punk’n Metallic, High Velocity Yellow, and Hydro Blue. These colors are meant to show off their desert-racing inspiration and improve visibility in off-road environments.
Should I Choose a 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk or Mojave?
Whether the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Nighthawk or the Mojave, either trim is going to look great in your driveway. Again, it’s just a question of how far off the pavement you plan to go. Stop by Alan Jay CDJR Clewiston to test drive both trims and see which Gladiator fits your lifestyle best. The best part of Alan Jay is that there are no hidden fees, so you know exactly what you are purchasing right up front!