2021 Jeep Gladiator
Features & Specs
2021 Ford Ranger
Standard
Four-wheel drive
Optional
285 horsepower
Engine power
270 horsepower
38.3 inches
Rear leg room
34.5 inches
103 cubic feet
Passenger volume
97.6 cubic feet

2021 Jeep Gladiator vs Ford Ranger

The midsize pickup class is an all-out turf war with battles going on everywhere you look. One tough battle is between the 2021 Jeep Gladiator and Ford Ranger. In its second year, the Jeep Gladiator brings the front fascia and four-wheel drive capability of the Wrangler to the midsize truck segment. With two powerful engine options, standard 4WD, and seemingly endless available options to enhance the Gladiator's capability, there's next to nothing it can't do! The 2021 Ford Ranger has one engine option, optional 4WD, and the available Tremor package to enhance the Ranger's off-road capability. There is quite a bit to talk about when comparing these two remarkable trucks! Continue reading to learn more!

2021 Jeep Gladiator Power & Handling

As we stated above, there are two available engines for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. The base engine kicks out 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque with a 3.6L V6 engine. This is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, but can also be paired with an 8-speed automatic. The available 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 will be more appealing to some drivers with 260 horsepower and an incredible 442 lb-ft of torque available at just 1,400 RPM. The Gladiator gets best-in-class gas towing with 4,000lbs of standard towing capacity and up to 7,650lbs when equipped with the Max Tow Package. The Jeep Gladiator's Trail Rated badge isn't just placed on the front doors for show. It is earned! And this badge is what sets the Gladiator apart from all its competitors. From its towering 10 inches of ground clearance and heavy-duty Dana 44 solid axles to the available electronic locking differentials and disconnecting sway bar, you can take the Gladiator just about anywhere!

2021 Ford Ranger Power & Handling

The 2021 Ford Ranger only has one available engine. The 2.3L turbocharged I4 engine puts out 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This setup provides 3,500lbs of towing capacity which can be enhanced to 7,500lbs with the optional Trailer Tow Package. The Ranger's capability is limited due to rear-wheel drive being the standard drivetrain. All-wheel drive is an available option on all Ranger trims. Off-road enthusiasts will be more satisfied with the Ranger's available Tremor package with upgraded suspension and four-wheel drive to enhance its capability.

2021 Jeep Gladiator Features & Design

The Gladiator's design is heavily influenced by the Wrangler's iconic appearance. From the removable roof and doors, round headlights, seven-slot grille, and trapezoidal fender flares, the apple didn't fall very far from this tree! The only real difference is the five-foot truck bed behind the cab of the Gladiator. There are five main trim levels for the 2021 Gladiator, Sport, Sport S, Willys, Mojave, and Rubicon. The base-level Sport comes with underbody skid plates, cargo bed lighting, 17-inch steel wheels, a 5-inch infotainment touchscreen, a backup camera, and a wash-out interior with drain plugs. The Sport S adds more with a 7-inch touchscreen, keyless entry/ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Higher trim levels bring leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lighting, and off-road features like FOX suspension components, 33-inch all-terrain tires on 17-inch alloy wheels, high-clearance fender flares, off-road cruise control, and electronic front and rear differentials.

2021 Ford Ranger Features & Design

There are only three trim levels for the 2021 Ford Ranger, XL, XLT, and Lariat. The XL trim brings a 4.2-inch touchscreen, a rearview camera, and 16-inch steel wheels. You get a bit more with the XLT trim and its 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability, 17-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, driver assists, and cruise control. The top of the line Lariat trim tacks on leather seating, LED exterior lighting, keyless entry, push-button start, heated side mirrors, and 18-inch alloy wheels. New for the 2021 Ford Ranger is the optional Tremor package. This adds all-wheel drive, FOX suspension parts, all-terrain tires, and front and rear tow hooks.

Conclusion:

The competition between the 2021 Jeep Gladiator and Ford Ranger is a heavyweight punch-for-punch matchup. And while the competition is close, the Gladiator comes out on top thanks to its Trail Rated off-road capability and open-air design! If you want to get behind the wheel of a new Jeep Gladiator, you can find our full inventory right here on our website to choose the right one for you! If you're looking to test drive a new Gladiator, you can book a sales appointment or call us directly to schedule a test drive with a member of our expert sales team. Whichever way you choose to shop, we can't wait to see you!


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