Test drove a 2021 Gladiator and ...

jclamdip · Jun 21, 2021

1999TacoMan[OP] initial post: ↑

So I sold my '19 Tacoma OR about a month ago after 2 years of ownership and within those 2 years I gotten to know the pros/cons of the taco. It was a solid truck and it definitely got the job done during those 2 years. Of course, when a dealer is offering you a crazy amount, it is very hard to say no. Before I move on to talk about my experience with the Gladiator, I'd like to list a few pros/cons of the taco. The point of this thread is to give others some input just in case they are in the same boat as I am.

2019 Tacoma 4wd OR
Pros:
- Not a full size and much more manageable in tight parking areas or driving through the city
- 4WD was plenty capable (I was able to to put it to the test during the winter storm here in Texas)
- Aftermarket support is huge
- Reliability (never gave me issues during my ownership)
- Resale Value!
- Great forums like Tacomaworld. Lots of great knowledge, people, and information is found here in Tacomaworld.
- Option for a manual for most trims

Cons:
- Gas mileage was honestly mediocre especially when you compare the numbers to full size pickups in today's market. Throw some 33" or 35" tires and those numbers shoot way down.
- Seating position got old after a while and for being 6ft tall, there wasn't much head clearance. (I'm aware that the updated Tacoma from '20 and on improved slightly with the power seats)
- I know I know, there's OVtune but honestly, the transmission was so anemic. It could never hold the right gear and the only temporary solution was to drive in ECT mode.
- Rear passenger space was also very cramped. Wasn't too bad for me but for anyone with a family, the space was pretty small.

2021 Jeep Gladiator Willy's Edition
Pros:
- Interior is so much more refined when compared to the Tacoma. Everything from the infotainment to the materials used inside were definitely an improvement. The seats were much more comfortable and the positioning of my legs when sitting was much better. The amount of headroom was also night and day.
- Ability to fit 33's or 35's (Rubicon trim only for 35's) with no lift and no modification of any sorts is a major plus.
- TRANSMISSION! This was a big one for me as I really disliked the auto transmission in the Tacoma. The 8 speed in the Gladiator was incredibly smooth and it never hunted for gears while driving.
- Off road capabilities. This is a no brainer. Solid axle up front and the option for front and rear lockers, along with sway bar disconnects. Dana 44 axles are superior when compared to the competition.
- Ability to remove panels and doors. This is isn't really a big deal for me but it earns cool points in my book.
- Rear passenger room. The amount of legroom in the back was amazing. When having the driver's seat adjusted to my liking, I was still able to fit very comfortably in the back with plenty of legroom.
- Ruggedness and looks. This one is probably debatable depending on who you ask but the look of the Gladiator really has grown on me. I think it still holds the character of a Wrangler but with the utility of a bed.
- Overall feel. While driving it, the Gladiator felt more like a truck than the Tacoma did. This is something that I really enjoyed. This could be a con for some people. I do know that for the '20 Gladiators there were many issues with steering feel and feedback, but I believe the steering was improved for the '21 models.
- Manual is still an option
- Tow rating of 7,650 with max towing package

Cons:
- $$$$. For the model I tested, the price was definitely on the steeper end. Of course, I am taking into account the current market and the shortage of inventory on many vehicles nationwide. The price as tested out the door was $48k.
- FCA. This is still a toss up. I've heard mixed reviews about the 3.6 Pentastar but I've heard that this engine has made huge strides in reliability in recent years.
- Not available in a 6' foot bed. To many this can be a bad thing but the 5' foot bed works for me.
- Wind/Road noise. It was noticeable but not by much. I've daily tons of sports cars with aftermarket exhausts so a little bit of road/wind noise in the Gladiator didn't phase me much.

Overall, the Tacoma was just what Toyota is all about, durable and reliable. However after selling it, I thought I would give the Gladiator a try since it's the only other mid size that is appealing to me.

After driving the '21 Gladiator in the Willy's trim this past weekend, I can safely say that it is definitely in contingency as my new replacement for the taco in the next few months. I hope anyone out there in this same predicament finds this information somewhat useful. I'm aware that I left out details on both vehicles, but these are just the notable differences that I experienced and felt worth mentioning.
Click to expand...

Hopefully someone will talk you out of this.

How any sane person could choose a Fiat/Crysler/Stellantis junk is beyond my comprehension.

1999TacoMan · Jun 21, 2021

jclamdip said: ↑

Hopefully someone will talk you out of this.

How any sane person could choose a Fiat/Crysler/Stellantis junk is beyond my comprehension.
Click to expand...

I'm not 100% on it but it is a strong contender. I'm also interested in knowing how the new trail edition tacoma will drive.

Mully · Jun 21, 2021

My buddy has a Jeep 4dr, Rubicon tested, blaaa, blaaa, blaaa, 56K and 2 motors later. Says it's better than my Tacoma.

That's about the time I keep reminding him about my 4Runner with 325K on it and everything still works. He usually just tells me to shut up.

US Marine · Jun 21, 2021

Gladiators are awesome when modded , there's quite a few up here in the Socal High Desert !!

There's a few I've seen running 42" tires , long travel suspension , Currie Rock Jock axles , Atlas t/case and 6.2 Hellcat swap

jwctaco · Jun 21, 2021

Put a RSI paint matched topper on the bed, they look real nice

To me

jacpa · Jun 21, 2021

Jeep Gladiator. When the Wrangler isn't obnoxious enough.

Taco Fan · Jun 21, 2021

Former Taco owner, current Jeep Wrangler (not Gladiator) owner. If you want a truck, Taco is better. If you want a Jeep, get a Jeep…not a Jeep shaped like a truck. I love my Jeep, but I miss my Taco on the 4 or 5 days a year I need a truck bed.

US Marine · Jun 21, 2021

Jeep Gladiator on 35's at Calico " Doran" canyon

https://youtu.be/7rMv8My2rFs

Rudimentality · Jun 21, 2021

Different strokes for different folks, of course.

However, I think we all know the mantra of Just Empty Every Pocket.

My personal take is this - if you're going to get tired of it by 60K miles and trade it in, go for the Gladiator if that's what you want, but if you're a loyalist that's looking to put 6 figure miles on your next rig? I think this is a no brainer - but that's just one humble ***hole's opinion.

Additional .02. +1 to the gladiator (generally speaking) looking like a goofy child's rendering of their dream truck. Still a better front end than the ranger though, am I right?

Doggman · Jun 21, 2021

Thunder Fist said: ↑

Con for the Gladiator: they look like dookie unless you mod them.
Click to expand...

Haha I agree but a lift and some big tires goes a long way on those things. Gladiators on 35s or 37s are pretty cool.

ryanvar42 · Jun 21, 2021

jclamdip said: ↑

Hopefully someone will talk you out of this.

How any sane person could choose a Fiat/Crysler/Stellantis junk is beyond my comprehension.
Click to expand...

Because a lot of people have no issues with them and have them for a long time and they run great. Just like most other brands......

stevesnj · Jun 21, 2021

afret said: ↑

Forgot one Gladiator con: Ugly!
Click to expand...

Just the overall durability and reliability of Jeep products and the god awfulness looks of it are the main reasons I'd never own this or any Jeep product.

Rock Lobster · Jun 21, 2021

Speaking of milage, the gladiator is rated at 16/23 vs Tacoma's 19/23.

Imagine what happens when you put real tires on it.

DavesTaco68 · Jun 21, 2021

1999TacoMan[OP] initial post: ↑

So I sold my '19 Tacoma OR about a month ago after 2 years of ownership and within those 2 years I gotten to know the pros/cons of the taco. It was a solid truck and it definitely got the job done during those 2 years. Of course, when a dealer is offering you a crazy amount, it is very hard to say no. Before I move on to talk about my experience with the Gladiator, I'd like to list a few pros/cons of the taco. The point of this thread is to give others some input just in case they are in the same boat as I am.

2019 Tacoma 4wd OR
Pros:
- Not a full size and much more manageable in tight parking areas or driving through the city
- 4WD was plenty capable (I was able to to put it to the test during the winter storm here in Texas)
- Aftermarket support is huge
- Reliability (never gave me issues during my ownership)
- Resale Value!
- Great forums like Tacomaworld. Lots of great knowledge, people, and information is found here in Tacomaworld.
- Option for a manual for most trims

Cons:
- Gas mileage was honestly mediocre especially when you compare the numbers to full size pickups in today's market. Throw some 33" or 35" tires and those numbers shoot way down.
- Seating position got old after a while and for being 6ft tall, there wasn't much head clearance. (I'm aware that the updated Tacoma from '20 and on improved slightly with the power seats)
- I know I know, there's OVtune but honestly, the transmission was so anemic. It could never hold the right gear and the only temporary solution was to drive in ECT mode.
- Rear passenger space was also very cramped. Wasn't too bad for me but for anyone with a family, the space was pretty small.

2021 Jeep Gladiator Willy's Edition
Pros:
- Interior is so much more refined when compared to the Tacoma. Everything from the infotainment to the materials used inside were definitely an improvement. The seats were much more comfortable and the positioning of my legs when sitting was much better. The amount of headroom was also night and day.
- Ability to fit 33's or 35's (Rubicon trim only for 35's) with no lift and no modification of any sorts is a major plus.
- TRANSMISSION! This was a big one for me as I really disliked the auto transmission in the Tacoma. The 8 speed in the Gladiator was incredibly smooth and it never hunted for gears while driving.
- Off road capabilities. This is a no brainer. Solid axle up front and the option for front and rear lockers, along with sway bar disconnects. Dana 44 axles are superior when compared to the competition.
- Ability to remove panels and doors. This is isn't really a big deal for me but it earns cool points in my book.
- Rear passenger room. The amount of legroom in the back was amazing. When having the driver's seat adjusted to my liking, I was still able to fit very comfortably in the back with plenty of legroom.
- Ruggedness and looks. This one is probably debatable depending on who you ask but the look of the Gladiator really has grown on me. I think it still holds the character of a Wrangler but with the utility of a bed.
- Overall feel. While driving it, the Gladiator felt more like a truck than the Tacoma did. This is something that I really enjoyed. This could be a con for some people. I do know that for the '20 Gladiators there were many issues with steering feel and feedback, but I believe the steering was improved for the '21 models.
- Manual is still an option
- Tow rating of 7,650 with max towing package

Cons:
- $$$$. For the model I tested, the price was definitely on the steeper end. Of course, I am taking into account the current market and the shortage of inventory on many vehicles nationwide. The price as tested out the door was $48k.
- FCA. This is still a toss up. I've heard mixed reviews about the 3.6 Pentastar but I've heard that this engine has made huge strides in reliability in recent years.
- Not available in a 6' foot bed. To many this can be a bad thing but the 5' foot bed works for me.
- Wind/Road noise. It was noticeable but not by much. I've daily tons of sports cars with aftermarket exhausts so a little bit of road/wind noise in the Gladiator didn't phase me much.

Overall, the Tacoma was just what Toyota is all about, durable and reliable. However after selling it, I thought I would give the Gladiator a try since it's the only other mid size that is appealing to me.

After driving the '21 Gladiator in the Willy's trim this past weekend, I can safely say that it is definitely in contingency as my new replacement for the taco in the next few months. I hope anyone out there in this same predicament finds this information somewhat useful. I'm aware that I left out details on both vehicles, but these are just the notable differences that I experienced and felt worth mentioning.
Click to expand...

My buddy has a gladiator rubicon, put on 37s without butchering anything and he has had zero issues with reliability. It looks really good on 37s

20AGTaco · Jun 21, 2021

I think comparing a ‘21 Willy’s Gladiator to a ‘19 OR isn’t apples to apples. Also, saying that $ is a con for the Gladiator understates how much that sets it back from your original taco. Just MHO.

that said: Gladiators are cool. I would love a hard top convertible truck.

Toyko Joe · Jun 21, 2021

Rock Lobster said: ↑

Speaking of milage, the gladiator is rated at 16/23 vs Tacoma's 19/23.

Imagine what happens when you put real tires on it.
Click to expand...

Those aren’t real tires that come on it? Better get some Force rims then too??

CrispyTacoLover · Jun 21, 2021

1999TacoMan[OP] initial post: ↑

So I sold my '19 Tacoma OR about a month ago after 2 years of ownership and within those 2 years I gotten to know the pros/cons of the taco. It was a solid truck and it definitely got the job done during those 2 years. Of course, when a dealer is offering you a crazy amount, it is very hard to say no. Before I move on to talk about my experience with the Gladiator, I'd like to list a few pros/cons of the taco. The point of this thread is to give others some input just in case they are in the same boat as I am.

2019 Tacoma 4wd OR
Pros:
- Not a full size and much more manageable in tight parking areas or driving through the city
- 4WD was plenty capable (I was able to to put it to the test during the winter storm here in Texas)
- Aftermarket support is huge
- Reliability (never gave me issues during my ownership)
- Resale Value!
- Great forums like Tacomaworld. Lots of great knowledge, people, and information is found here in Tacomaworld.
- Option for a manual for most trims

Cons:
- Gas mileage was honestly mediocre especially when you compare the numbers to full size pickups in today's market. Throw some 33" or 35" tires and those numbers shoot way down.
- Seating position got old after a while and for being 6ft tall, there wasn't much head clearance. (I'm aware that the updated Tacoma from '20 and on improved slightly with the power seats)
- I know I know, there's OVtune but honestly, the transmission was so anemic. It could never hold the right gear and the only temporary solution was to drive in ECT mode.
- Rear passenger space was also very cramped. Wasn't too bad for me but for anyone with a family, the space was pretty small.

2021 Jeep Gladiator Willy's Edition
Pros:
- Interior is so much more refined when compared to the Tacoma. Everything from the infotainment to the materials used inside were definitely an improvement. The seats were much more comfortable and the positioning of my legs when sitting was much better. The amount of headroom was also night and day.
- Ability to fit 33's or 35's (Rubicon trim only for 35's) with no lift and no modification of any sorts is a major plus.
- TRANSMISSION! This was a big one for me as I really disliked the auto transmission in the Tacoma. The 8 speed in the Gladiator was incredibly smooth and it never hunted for gears while driving.
- Off road capabilities. This is a no brainer. Solid axle up front and the option for front and rear lockers, along with sway bar disconnects. Dana 44 axles are superior when compared to the competition.
- Ability to remove panels and doors. This is isn't really a big deal for me but it earns cool points in my book.
- Rear passenger room. The amount of legroom in the back was amazing. When having the driver's seat adjusted to my liking, I was still able to fit very comfortably in the back with plenty of legroom.
- Ruggedness and looks. This one is probably debatable depending on who you ask but the look of the Gladiator really has grown on me. I think it still holds the character of a Wrangler but with the utility of a bed.
- Overall feel. While driving it, the Gladiator felt more like a truck than the Tacoma did. This is something that I really enjoyed. This could be a con for some people. I do know that for the '20 Gladiators there were many issues with steering feel and feedback, but I believe the steering was improved for the '21 models.
- Manual is still an option
- Tow rating of 7,650 with max towing package

Cons:
- $$$$. For the model I tested, the price was definitely on the steeper end. Of course, I am taking into account the current market and the shortage of inventory on many vehicles nationwide. The price as tested out the door was $48k.
- FCA. This is still a toss up. I've heard mixed reviews about the 3.6 Pentastar but I've heard that this engine has made huge strides in reliability in recent years.
- Not available in a 6' foot bed. To many this can be a bad thing but the 5' foot bed works for me.
- Wind/Road noise. It was noticeable but not by much. I've daily tons of sports cars with aftermarket exhausts so a little bit of road/wind noise in the Gladiator didn't phase me much.

Overall, the Tacoma was just what Toyota is all about, durable and reliable. However after selling it, I thought I would give the Gladiator a try since it's the only other mid size that is appealing to me.

After driving the '21 Gladiator in the Willy's trim this past weekend, I can safely say that it is definitely in contingency as my new replacement for the taco in the next few months. I hope anyone out there in this same predicament finds this information somewhat useful. I'm aware that I left out details on both vehicles, but these are just the notable differences that I experienced and felt worth mentioning.
Click to expand...

If you had purchased the 2020, or 2021 with the drivers electric seat, things might have been different. My 2021 OR is really nice.

One of my best friends has a Gladiator and I like it too.

Good luck.

tacopeter · Jun 21, 2021

Tacoma > Gladiator
Wrangler Rubicon > 4runner Pro

US Marine · Jun 21, 2021

Just two body mods done to the Gladiator makes it look so much better and that's by installing flat fenders and bobbing the bed by 20"

N3FOLMike · Jun 21, 2021

I did my assignment before I made the purchase. I test drove both vehicles, since the Dodge and Toyota dealers were just next to each other... The Gladiator and the Tacoma. To make the story really short, the Tacoma won my heart with flying colors. I just fit in the seat perfectly. Choose the vehicle that makes you most comfortable in your driving position. Whatever vehicle it is, you will for sure keep it for the long term.

Log in or Sign up

Welcome to Tacoma World!

Test drove a 2021 Gladiator and ...

#21
jclamdip Well-Known Member

#22
1999TacoMan [OP] Well-Known Member

#23
Mully Well-Known Member

#24
US Marine Semper Fi

#25
jwctaco Well-Known Member

#26
jacpa Well-Known Member

#27
Taco Fan Well-Known Member

#28
US Marine Semper Fi

#29
Rudimentality Well-Known Member

#30
Doggman Well-Known Member

#31
ryanvar42 That is your opinion. It is wrong.

#32
stevesnj Well-Known Member

#33
Rock Lobster Thread Derailer

#34
DavesTaco68 Well-Known Member

#35
20AGTaco Member

#36
Toyko Joe Here for the pictures

#37
CrispyTacoLover Well-Known Member

#38
tacopeter My truck isn't modded. It's well optioned.

#39
US Marine Semper Fi

#40
N3FOLMike Well-Known Member

Products Discussed in

Log in or Sign up

Useful Searches

Welcome to Tacoma World!

Test drove a 2021 Gladiator and ...

#21 jclamdip Well-Known Member

#22 1999TacoMan [OP] Well-Known Member

#23 Mully Well-Known Member

#24 US Marine Semper Fi

#25 jwctaco Well-Known Member

#26 jacpa Well-Known Member

#27 Taco Fan Well-Known Member

#28 US Marine Semper Fi

#29 Rudimentality Well-Known Member

#30 Doggman Well-Known Member

#31 ryanvar42 That is your opinion. It is wrong.

#32 stevesnj Well-Known Member

#33 Rock Lobster Thread Derailer

#34 DavesTaco68 Well-Known Member

#35 20AGTaco Member

#36 Toyko Joe Here for the pictures

#37 CrispyTacoLover Well-Known Member

#38 tacopeter My truck isn't modded. It's well optioned.

#39 US Marine Semper Fi

#40 N3FOLMike Well-Known Member

Products Discussed in Entire Site Forum: 3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)

#21
jclamdip Well-Known Member

#22
1999TacoMan [OP] Well-Known Member

#23
Mully Well-Known Member

#24
US Marine Semper Fi

#25
jwctaco Well-Known Member

#26
jacpa Well-Known Member

#27
Taco Fan Well-Known Member

#28
US Marine Semper Fi

#29
Rudimentality Well-Known Member

#30
Doggman Well-Known Member

#31
ryanvar42 That is your opinion. It is wrong.

#32
stevesnj Well-Known Member

#33
Rock Lobster Thread Derailer

#34
DavesTaco68 Well-Known Member

#35
20AGTaco Member

#36
Toyko Joe Here for the pictures

#37
CrispyTacoLover Well-Known Member

#38
tacopeter My truck isn't modded. It's well optioned.

#39
US Marine Semper Fi

#40
N3FOLMike Well-Known Member

Products Discussed in