The Good
The 2021 Gladiator boasts impressive off-road performance and distinctive Jeep styling that evokes strong emotions. For practical buyers, it offers solid towing capacity and a usable truck bed. While not the most efficient, it provides acceptable fuel economy for its class. Ride comfort is reasonable, and it holds its value well on the used market. Reliability can be a mixed bag, but the Gladiator's strengths often outweigh its weaknesses for many buyers.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2021 Gladiator include its ride quality, which can be stiff compared to other trucks. Fuel economy isn't a strong point. Some owners have reported electronic issues and build quality concerns. Wind noise with the soft top can be significant. Watch out for potential issues with the infotainment system and drivetrain components.
2021 Jeep Gladiator: Quick Overview
Key Specs for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator:
- Engine Options:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: Standard engine
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: Optional diesel engine
- Horsepower:
- 3.6L V6: 285 horsepower
- 3.0L Diesel V6: 260 horsepower
- Fuel Economy (3.6L V6):
- City: 16-17 MPG (depending on transmission and configuration)
- Highway: 22-23 MPG (depending on transmission and configuration)
- Fuel Economy (3.0L Diesel V6):
- City: 22 MPG (estimated)
- Highway: 28 MPG (estimated)
- 0-60 Times:
- 3.6L V6: Around 7.5 - 8.0 seconds (estimated)
- 3.0L Diesel V6: Around 7.0 - 7.5 seconds (estimated)
- Towing Capacity: Up to 7,650 lbs (depending on configuration)
- Trim Level Features:
- Sport: Basic features, cloth seats, Uconnect 3 with 5-inch display, manual windows and locks.
- Sport S: Adds power windows and locks, alloy wheels, and available options packages.
- Overland: Premium cloth seats, Uconnect 4 with 7-inch display, automatic climate control, and more comfort features.
- Rubicon: Off-road focused with Rock-Trac 4x4 system, locking differentials, disconnecting sway bar, 33-inch tires, and rock rails.
- Mojave: High-speed desert running focused with FOX shocks, hydraulic jounce bumpers, and reinforced frame.
2021 Jeep Gladiator Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | Jeep |
| Model | Gladiator |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | DETROIT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4691 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 7000 pounds |
| Overall Height | 75 inches |
| Overall Length | 218 inches |
| Overall Width | 73.8 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 137.3 inches |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | Regular Unleaded V-6 3.6 L/220 |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating Ball |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $34,960 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Have?
How long will the 2021 Jeep Gladiator last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features include electronic stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional features included a forward-facing off-road camera.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) vary. The Gladiator received a 4-star overall safety rating. IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings are mixed, with good scores in some categories but marginal scores in others, like the small overlap front crash test. It's important to review the specific model year's ratings for the most accurate information. Higher trims offered more advanced safety features as standard or optional equipment.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 Jeep Gladiator Prices and Market Value
2021 Jeep Gladiator Cost of Ownership
2021 Jeep Gladiator Fuel Efficiency
2021 Jeep Gladiator Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Jeep Gladiator Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Maintenance
Roadside Assistance
2021 Jeep Gladiator Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Jeep Gladiator Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
Feature-wise, the Gladiator stands out with its removable top and doors, a unique selling point. Price-wise, it can be more expensive than some competitors, particularly when similarly equipped.
Alternatives to consider: The Toyota Tacoma offers better long-term reliability, if off-road capability is not the primary concern. The Chevrolet Colorado is a worthy option if you need a diesel. The Ford Ranger offers a better on-road driving experience. If maximizing off-road capability is the top priority, the Gladiator remains a strong choice, but be prepared for potential compromises in ride comfort and fuel economy compared to its rivals.
Ranks #311 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 311 | 2021 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Jeep Gladiator a Good Pickup Truck?
Consider buying used to save money, but thoroughly inspect the vehicle for any signs of off-road abuse or neglect. The Rubicon trim is recommended for serious off-roaders, while the Overland offers a good balance of features and comfort for daily driving. Weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering the Gladiator's strengths and weaknesses relative to its competitors.
marti mcfly on November 5, 2024
Have driven Jeeps in the military and loved theHave driven Jeeps in the military and loved the performance and easy maintenance. Have 2 Jeeps now and looking to replace one of my Jeep with another one. Love Jeeps!!
mojave lover on November 7, 2022
mojaveI have a jeep gladiator mojave, 2021, great vehicle , the best i have ever owned, great for offroading and the suspension is great, designed for higher speed offroading and it does a great jjob at this and just regular off roading. also fun just to drive around town. Highly recommend this vehicle, i also love the xtras, led lights, safety features, (blind spot and ADC, etc), aux swithes . This just a great vehicle.
Mike on October 4, 2022
Serious Suspension ProblemI would rate the Jeep with higher ratings but I have had very concerning suspension problems at freeway speeds: On rough or uneven pavement the Jeep shutters / shakes at a point where the Jeep is not easy to control: In fact on two occasions, the Jeep crossed lanes: Unable to make contact with MOPAR as there web site sucks: Finally did reach a rep by phone: I need to bring it in for diagnosis: A test drive most likely will duplicate this problem as it comes and goes: Unless Jeep can rectify the problem, I will turn it back in as it is not safe to drive!!
Sandy on July 10, 2022
Definitely a fan!I bought my 2021 Overland new. I love it!!! It is fun to drive. Handles well in the snow. This is a well made vehicle. I love the leather seating. The best heated seats and steering wheel I have owned. I'm definitely a fan!!
Howard on June 10, 2022
MOHAVE ride makes for good daily driverMojave trim gives a smooth ride. A big improvement over the 2012 Rubicon Unlimited that I had. 17-18 mpg around suburbs and 20-21 on trips. At 13,000 miles no reliability issues. 8-Speed transmission coupled with the 3.6 v6 works well. Great in SNOW. Recommend the AWD optional transfer case.
John J on April 12, 2022
Buy! Best of the Best!The best by far mid size truck you can buy! Built better than any truck you will find on the market, hands down an easy choice!!!
Ron on April 8, 2022
Very happyExcellent vehicle. Very comfortable and very easy to maintain and repair. Great styling and standard equipment. Would definitely purchase again without hesitation. My only vehicle and very comfortable on long trips.
Jennifer jeep on June 6, 2021
UNIQUE GLADIATORWhen I first saw it on the street, I knew it was different. A Jeep, I'm a former wrangler owner. I am completely taken by this one of a kind Gladiator experience. I didnt know if I could drive it with the added on back. NO PROBLEM. It handles better than my wrangler. In every way. The back cover, I have more room now for carrying items, beach gear to whatever. Love the Blue color. Vivid. Fun. I'm in jeep heaven. Cant believe the turning radius, ease of driving. All cars look the same nowadays and are boring to me. This brings out the adventure and uniqueness, I love the car!!
Elizabeth's toy on June 3, 2021
New toy at the momentOverall the vehicle is great, I did a lot of modifications. Improvements for this vehicle is when it rains the part over the door needs to be longer so the rain doesn't go into the car and splash over the interior and hit a person on the head
Bandit on May 28, 2021
Rides great. Looks very good. Light blue.Works & looks great. I highly recommend the Gladiator Jeep. I also bought a new Jeep Compass for my daughter. It is roomy & runs great.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.