When you're looking to add a durable, capable pickup to your driveway, a Jeep Gladiator vs. Ram 1500 comparison can be a helpful starting point. These two models from Spartanburg Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram suit two completely different lifestyles, so which one complements yours? The Jeep Gladiator is an off-roading masterpiece that's Trail Rated and built for any adventurer or family that loves the outdoors. The Ram 1500 is a versatile full-size truck best fitting for drivers and families who tow often and enjoy more upscale features.
| Jeep Gladiator | Ram 1500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 3.6L V-6 | 3.6L V-6 |
| Horsepower | 285 | 305 |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 269 lb-ft |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | 17 / 22 / 191 | 20 / 25 / 222 |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 2WD, 4WD avail |
| Towing Capacity | 4,500 - 7,700 lbs3 | 6,340 - 11,610 lbs3 |
| Max Payload Capacity | 1,720 lbs4 | 2,360 lbs4 |
| Cab Configurations / Passenger Volume | Standard (5-Passenger) / 103 cu ft |
|
| Bed / Bed Volume | 5-ft box / 35.5 cu ft |
|
| Standard Infotainment Display | 12.3 in | 8.4 in |
| Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™? | Yes | Yes |
A peek under the hood reveals the first part of this comparison: The Jeep Gladiator has a single engine, while the Ram 1500 offers four distinct options. The Gladiator is powered by a roaring 3.6-liter V-6, an efficient workhorse that makes 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission for efficient, smooth gear shifts.
The Ram 1500 has a similar 3.6-liter V-6 as standard, but also provides three other engine choices. Below is the complete list with their respective specs:


The most capable members of our new Ram 1500 inventory can tow up to 11,610 pounds3 with the 3.0-liter Hurricane twin-turbocharged V-6, while the standard 3.6-liter V-6 can help your truck reach a payload capacity of 2,360 pounds.4 The High-Output 3.0-liter Hurricane V-6 provides a solid 10,000 pounds of towing capacity and 1,490 pounds of payload capacity when properly equipped. Lastly, the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 offers a nice balance of horsepower and torque, along with a max towing capacity of 11,320 pounds.3
A new Jeep Gladiator for sale, with its single engine, still has a range of capacities. By default, it can tow 4,500 pounds,3 but the Sport S can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped with the Max Tow Package with a 4.10 axle ratio. Its maximum payload is 1,720 pounds, depending on configuration.4
Compared to the Gladiator, the Ram 1500 is larger and offers more customization options for higher-capacity towing jobs and increased passenger comfort. For instance, it provides two distinct cabins with more passenger volume than the Gladiator: the Quad Cab (117 cubic feet) and the Crew Cab (132 cubic feet). Early trims of the Ram 1500 can access the Quad Cab, but the Crew Cab is generally the more popular choice. To maximize towing and payload capacity, you'll want the Quad Cab, which comes with a standard 6-foot-4-inch box that holds up to 61.5 cubic feet. The Crew Cab can come with that standard box or a smaller, 5-foot-7-inch box.
The Jeep Gladiator has a single smaller configuration: a five-passenger cabin with 103 cubic feet of passenger volume and a 35.5-cubic-foot cargo bed. As a result, the Jeep Gladiator excels at off-roading compared to the Ram 1500, thanks to its narrower width (73.8 inches) and shorter length (218 inches) that make it easier to slip through tighter gaps between trees and rocks.



The Gladiator comes in 12 distinct options:
This lineup starts with incredible standard amenities, like a 12.3-inch central touchscreen and an eight-speaker sound system, and these only become more advanced as you upgrade to higher editions. Available appointments include a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, an Alpine® premium audio system with a wireless speaker, heated front seats, and built-in navigation.
The Ram 1500 is nearly as versatile, with 10 trim levels. Some of these editions come in a single configuration, but models like the Tradesman and Express have several options to better fit your work or play needs.
Similar to the Gladiator, these trims offer significant improvements in cabin comfort and convenience, such as going from the standard 8.4-inch infotainment system to an available 14.4-inch screen. High-end Ram trims also come with a wooden, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a Head-Up Display, and a Surround View Camera System.
Overall, our Jeep Gladiator vs. Ram 1500 comparison shows that the Jeep truck provides a better range of standard features at a more affordable price point, while the Ram 1500 has more available high-end luxuries when considering levels like the Limited and Tungsten.
If you're ready to purchase your next truck, consider our dealership as your next destination. Our new vehicle specials make your dream trim more accessible. Whether you need an off-road companion or a huge, capable work truck, our representatives can help.
The Ram 1500 can tow up to 11,610 pounds when properly equipped with the 3.0-liter twin-turbo engine, while the Jeep Gladiator can tow up to 7,700 pounds with a properly equipped Sport S trim.
The Ram 1500 and Jeep Gladiator share a similar 3.6-liter V-6 engine, though the Jeep Gladiator has 4WD as standard and thus has lower MPG ratings than the Ram 1500 – 19 MPG (Combined)1 vs. 22 MPG (Combined),2 respectively. The Ram 1500 has several alternative engines that improve capability but reduce fuel economy.
While the Ram 1500 has multiple off-road-ready trims, the Trail-Rated Jeep Gladiator is the better choice for extreme off-roading situations. With up to 31.5 inches of water-fording capability, a sway bar disconnect, and a heavy-duty part-time 4x4 system, the Jeep Gladiator is engineered to take on more challenging terrain.
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| 2024 Ram 1500 Review | Ford F-150 Raptor R vs. Ram 1500 TRX | Ram Trucks Towing Capacity Comparison |
1EPA-estimated 17/22 city/highway MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic transission. Actual mileage may vary.
2EPA-estimated 20/25 city/highway MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission. Actual mileage may vary.
3When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
4When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.