Test drove a 2021 Gladiator and ...

So far so good! I've been adjusting to the different driving feel of the TJ, but overall I am enjoying the ruggedness of it. I haven't really spent a lot of time going through it since I've only had it for 2 days, but the goal is to do a deep clean this weekend. Also removing the chrome headlight trim surrounds and grill inserts. The mod bug is already itching and there are a few improvements I want to make.

 

Sounds good. Just got my soft topper for my Gladiator. I think it gives it a utilitarian/ militaristic look.

 

I like the safety, look, ride, and reliability of every Tacoma I have owned.

The reason I would not consider a Gladiator at this point is 2) their dealers network of support and service and 3) the reliablity of past and current products. In addition, I know after 200K plus miles my Tacoma, when taken care of, will track and ride just as smoothly and quietly as the day I bought it. My current Gen 2 just hit 100K miles and as much as I like this one it is likely to see 300K.

I never had a Gen 1 Tacoma but I know the Gen 2, regardless of mileage, never turns into the 1) reason I will discount the Gladiator at this time. After 200K miles I know a Tacoma does not sound and turn into rattle trap POS. I have no reason to believe otherwise about the Gen 3 Tacoma either. Can you say that about the Gadiator during a test drive? If so, what about 100K miles later?

 

Sweet! I loved the softopper on my tacoma. It is lightweight and can be covered and uncovered in a matter of minutes. One of the best investments I made when I had the tacoma.

 

You can find faults in any vehicle. I can tell you right now that majority of Tacomas where I live will turn into a rusted out POS by 200k unless you take some significant steps to protect the frame every year or two.

 

I just seen a gladiator with a full camper shell on it.. look pretty sweet. Totally changes the look off it. IMO

 

I agree, no vehicle is perfect and certainly not a Tacoma. I also have no idea what it would be like to try and maintain any type of vehicle in Calgary. Note I was careful to say "the reason I would discount a Gladiator at this time" is "1) the dealer network of support and service" and a concern about it "2) becoming a rattle trap". Those are two things I won't tolerate.

There are a lot of impressive features I could talk about with regards to the Gladiator. I will admit, if things were different, I would much prefer driving a Dodge Ram but until at least the two issues I referenced change demonstrative and objective evidence I personnally will not consider it.

FWIW, I think the fact that Toyota has not addressed the frame rust issue is f--king unconscionable. But with that said I knew about the issue when I bought it and deal with it accordingly. I'm not smart enough and I don't have the time to deal with the remedial actions required to address the reasons I won't buy a Gladiator at this time.

BTW, when you test drove a brand new Gladiator, was it a rattle trap?

As far as Toyota's network of dealers, their sales people and service writers are no better than anyone elses but in my area, while I hate their hourly rates, for the most part I have nothing respect for the training and experience of their technicians for the type of problems I've had to deal with over years of my Toyota product ownership. Cars and trucks are getting more complex quickly. I don't know how much longer I will be able to make this claim.

I hope you will be the one to tell me in a few years that your Gladiator ownership was a beneficial experience. I wish you the best

 

Yeah, first easy mod and dont cost a dime; take the ends of the bumper off.

 

Well after my wife drove my Gladiator a few times we ended up getting a great deal on another one... a Willys! This one is automatic as opposed to my Rubicon with a manual. If anyone is interested in the difference I'll be happy to help amd answer any questions. In my opinion the Willys is a great value.

 

still want to see pictues of that Z... beautiful Willys though.. his and hers.... how cute!!!!

 

When you are up in the mountains miles and miles away from civilization walking back after picking up your elk, it’s below 30 degrees and it’s getting dark then your alternator goes to hell, you wish you had a Tacoma.

 

All of these Jeep pictures are lowering the reliability of these forums.

 

you dont have to come in here and hate....

 

In terms of reliability I'll say this one more time... in my personal (and my father's experience dating back to 1988) we have never had issues. We currently have a 2017 wrangler Rubicon Recon edition that we take to remote locations which require river crossings and other harsh terrain. We have the same confidence it will get us to and back from our destination as we do in our 2015 Hilux.

 

Awesome Jeeps, but now a days there's really no good deals if you are buying. Dealerships are trying to survive and marking everything up, and if they don't get you on the mark up, they will get you somewhere else.

 

Zero mark ups on both my deals. Got good money for my traded and incentives plus a discount. You have to find the right dealership.

 

The 8 speed transmissions in Chrysler/Jeep/RAM are built in Kokomo, Indiana.

 

Pics of the Hilux!!!

 

thought about it, but didn't want to Just Empty Every Pocket, even though I am getting deep into mods on my first ever taco now.

 

Traded in my 17 Taco a few weeks ago for a Glad Rubicon. Just felt like trying something else. So far, I love it.