Jeep Gladiator now ready for Kiwi buyers

The Jeep Gladiator ute is available as a convertible (right). Photo: Jeep

Pricing and details of the Jeep Gladiator, the world’s only convertible ute, is now available for New Zealand buyers.

The Gladiator is Jeep’s first double-cab four-wheel drive ute in 27 years and is available to order now in Jeep showrooms throughout New Zealand, starting at $89,990.

Distributed in New Zealand by Ateco Group, the Gladiator is a lifestyle pick-up truck that is based on the Jeep Wrangler.

Jeep USA decided in 2017 to add a ute to the medium-sized pickup truck segment and it took just a year to create the Gladiator, using the double cab four-wheel drive Wrangler JL as the base for the ute.

Jeep designer Taylor Langhals was in charge on creating the exterior of the Gladiator.

Jeep extended the Wrangler’s tail-shaft, brake and fuel lines, and exhaust system to fit the 5669mm long Gladiator.

Jeep designer Taylor Langhals was in New Zealand for the launch. Photo: Jeep

Compared to the Wrangler Unlimited, the Gladiator’s wheelbase is 492mm longer and an increase of 787mm in overall length. But it shares the Wrangler’s water fording of 763mm and 282mm ground clearance.

The Gladiator’s 1525mm long tray is constructed of steel. It features under-rail lighting, an 115V/400W power outlet, and built-in tie-down points.

This tray makes it ideal for the recreational market — and that’s where Jeep is aiming for, whether it is mountain bikes, kayaks, surfboards or off-road bikes. 

From launch, the Gladiator range will be powered by Chrysler’s 3.6-litre V6 petrol with 209kW of power and 347Nm of torque and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

“We are very excited to be launching the all new Jeep Gladiator in New Zealand. The versatility and functionality of the Jeep Gladiator will ensure it fits in seamlessly to New Zealanders adventurous lifestyles, whilst maintaining the iconic capabilities and design cues of the class leading Jeep Wrangler.” said Sarah Williams, Ateco Group New Zealand’s Marketing Manager. 

“Following the global Jeep Gladiator media event held in Queenstown in December last year, there has been an enormous amount of anticipation for the local launch of the only Trail Rated pick-up truck ever. New Zealanders will be blown away by the ‘rough it in style’ mentality that comes with driving such a unique offering, and our Jeep Dealer Network cannot wait to add this exceptional vehicle to showrooms”. 

The launch of the Gladiator was in Queenstown and around Wanaka. Photo: Jeep