Jeep pickup truck

Jeep Scrambler - Jeep Gladiator pickup truck

Jeep Scrambler: The Original Open-Air Pickup (1981-1986)

The Jeep Scrambler, officially known as the CJ-8, debuted in 1981. It was born out of a market desire for a pickup truck variation within the iconic Jeep CJ (Civilian Jeep) family. The Scrambler sought to bridge the gap between the rugged off-road prowess of the CJ-7 and the practical utility of a pickup truck.

• A CJ-7 at Heart: The Scrambler was essentially a lengthened CJ-7. It shared the same underlying frame, powertrains, and legendary Jeep four-wheel-drive systems. This meant it inherited the CJ-7's renowned off-road chops with rock-crawling gearing and solid axles known for articulation.

• The Stretchy Difference: The key difference lay in its 103.5-inch wheelbase, 15 inches longer than the CJ-7's. This extra length translated into a pickup bed for hauling. The bed, although small by conventional truck standards, was versatile. Jeep offered options like removable full or half-hardtops, soft tops, and even a unique roll bar arrangement for an incredibly open cab experience.

• Under the Hood: Early Scramblers shared the CJ-7's engine options: a durable 2.5-liter AMC inline-four, or the venerable 4.2-liter AMC inline-six for more pulling power. Later models offered an optional GM-sourced 2.8-liter V6. Transmission choices mirrored the CJ-7, including four-speed and five-speed manuals, and an automatic.

• Target Market: Jeep envisioned the Scrambler as the perfect vehicle for adventurers and those who embraced an active outdoorsy lifestyle. The open-top and open-bed combination was ideal for hauling gear, surfboards, camping equipment, or trail bikes.

The Scrambler achieved a cult-like following over the years. Those who understood its fun-loving personality and off-road prowess became fiercely loyal to the model. Today, well-preserved Jeep Scramblers have become highly desirable and collectible.

The Gladiator Name: A Brief First Appearance

It's interesting to note that "Gladiator" was first used on a Jeep truck in 1962. It evolved from the Willys-Overland truck design, morphing into the Jeep J-series Gladiator and pickup trucks. These trucks, however, had a vastly different design philosophy from the later CJ-8 based Scrambler or the even more modern Wrangler-based Gladiator.

The Long Wait for a Jeep Pickup Revival

After the Jeep Scrambler's discontinuation following the 1986 model year, fans of the Jeep pickup concept had a long wait. Chrysler, the then-owner of the Jeep brand following the acquisition of AMC, introduced the Jeep Comanche pickup in 1985. While successful, it was based on the Cherokee XJ unibody platform, making it structurally different from the rough-and-tumble CJ/Wrangler lineage.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Jeep concept vehicles occasionally teased the possibility of a Wrangler-inspired pickup, keeping the dream alive. Finally, the waiting game ended in 2018 with the official unveiling of the all-new Jeep Gladiator.

The Modern Gladiator (2020-Present): Wrangler Spirit, Pickup Versatility

The arrival of the contemporary Jeep Gladiator was met with enormous enthusiasm from the Jeep faithful. It finally answered the decades-old wish for a true inheritor of the Scrambler's spirit, built upon the incredibly successful modern Jeep Wrangler platform.

• Rugged Wrangler DNA: The Gladiator is built on the legendary Jeep Wrangler platform, ensuring go-anywhere 4x4 capabilities.

• Best-in-Class Towing and Payload (Gas): Properly equipped models boast an impressive 7,700 lbs of towing capacity and up to 1,725 lbs of payload.

• True Pickup Versatility: The open bed provides flexibility for hauling gear, tools, or toys.

• Open-Air Freedom: Removable top and doors let you create the ultimate open-air experience unique to Jeeps.

• Advanced Technology: Available Uconnect infotainment brings navigation, smartphone integration, and off-road specific displays and cameras.

Recent Updates

Jeep regularly updates the Gladiator. Here's what's been freshened recently:

• 2024: Bold new exterior styling, enhanced safety features, with more technology.

Trim Levels:

The Gladiator offers an array of trim levels to suit different needs and budgets:

• Sport: The base model, but far from basic with essential Jeep capability.

• Willys: More aggressive looks and off-road equipment.

• Sport S: Extra features for comfort and convenience.

• Overland: Blends off-road capability with on-road refinement.

• Rubicon: Hard-core off-roader, with locking differentials, disconnecting sway bar, etc.

• Mojave: Desert-focused with tuned suspension for high-speed sand running.

Off-Road Prowess

Choose the right Gladiator, and it'll conquer any terrain:

• Trail Rated Tough: Many Gladiator trims earn the Trail Rated badge for proven off-road ability.

• Ground Clearance: Excellent ground clearance for tackling obstacles.

• Breakover and Approach Angles: Help navigate steep inclines and rough terrain.