2023 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon: The Gladiator NEEDS A V8!

Today I drive and review a 2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon!

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[matthewburns]

I drove a gladiator when they first arrived on scene. My immediate reaction was it needed the 5.7 Hemi.

[dantimber]

The original Penta Star family of V6 engines topped out with a 4.0L V6. However it has never been produced. That might be a good compromise, especially for more torque. It also wouldn't add the additional weight and complication of a Hemi V8 with it's cylinder deactivation.

[dennisodson]

I agree. If they would have offered a v8 in this I wouldn't have ordered my wrangler 392.

[doorkicker]

If it had a V8 it would be a hundred grand. And much less people would have one. But yes it is very underpowered. Especially running 37’s. But most don’t buy it because it’s fast. A 392 would be awesome though.

[zacharymitchellwtx]

Such a beautiful interior to compliment the sarge green. You are getting old AND dad vibes! Congrats btw.

[Aschoolbusandsimulatorfan]

This will be my first vehicle! Nice job Ben.

[wontonsteve]

Yeah, that was a weird analogy. But I get what you're saying. The engine/cost is why I went with ram instead. Even though I lusted for a gladiator for years.

[benmorehouse]

A v8 would be so nice. I just got a 2022 gladiator rubicon with the 3.6 but I didn’t even consider the diesel because I had a Ram 1500 eco diesel I bought new and I blew the engine up at 40k miles. It was replaced under warranty but I didn’t want to go through that headache again. Hopefully the newer ecodiesels ironed out the spun rod bearing issues though.

[kernalclink]

1st Rubicon I've seen without the red dash panels.

[brokeboy]

It reminds me a little of my Uncle's military jeep, with the color scheme.

[alexfry]

It'd be cool if the gladiator could have the 392 extreme recon package

[Drpepperkev]

I would buy the Gladiator even with a V6, I would add off road lights the back and front end

[girth]

Hi Ben, unless my eyes are deceiving me (good chance) I’m pretty sure that is a 22 gladiator. 23s have the American flag on the Gladiator sticker.I absolutely love my Gladiator Rubicon! I have the 3.6 and it is adequate but by no means sporty.

[matt]

Great video! Love the analogy 😂. Thanks!

[JohnnyIDive]

perfect for the covert operator doing the grocery run on the weekend.

[saschamitd]

my car for example does 45mpg at 60mph, 30mpg at 130mph, can carry 1322lbs, 5 ppl, is quiet at any speed. u cant imagine how good to ride. and its from 2011

[CrumResearch]

Another great vehicle choice! Agreed, I would love to see a 392 V8 in a Gladiator. In fact, I would like to see a 393 4xe, V8 plug-in hybrid with large 35 kWh battery and CCS DC Fast Charging capability and 25-gallon gas tank!

[YouTubeBinging]

Great review. One thing I don't understand in 2023 in general no truck bed liner. It is becoming too common in virtually all trucks.

[Steven-iyoh]

I was giving a rental Rubicon Gladiator with the V6 automatic after my 21 2 Door manual JL Rubicon was murdered by a women not paying attention… The Gladiator felt grossly underpowered compared to the much lighter 2 door I was use to driving. Same for my parents JLU Sahara with the 2.0, very quick in comparison. The Gladiator really needs a different engine then the V6/Auto combination. I’m not sure about the diesel reliability, but if offered with a 392 I would buy one to compliment the 2 door.

I ended up ordering another 2 door JLR manual with 4.88 gears in Reign and saddle brown interior.

[Richard-xvyf]

It probably won't ever get a v8 but it definitely needs a shorter version.