Rumors Run Wild Ahead of Jeep Pickup Reveal
One of the worst-kept secrets in the auto industry right now is that Jeep is returning to the pickup truck game with a new vehicle that's expected to debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, which opens to the public Nov. 30. Jeep has a history of using any means possible to expand its existing SUV lineup to reach new consumer markets — the popular Renegade compact SUV and the returning full-size Wagoneer SUV come to mind. The most recent is the brand's return to pickup trucks.
Related: 2019 Jeep Scrambler Trim Levels: Spied
Longtime Jeep fans will remember the 1970s and '80s when Jeep built pickups on ladder frames (think J10, J20 and J30) or on a heavily modified unibody chassis like the compact Comanche (late '80s). However, none of those were considered a sales success. With the resurgence of the four-door Jeep Wrangler SUV and the popularity of aftermarket-modified Jeep pickups, the idea of a Jeep pickup makes more sense than ever.
Now, with a vehicle like the all-new Jeep Wrangler four-door getting strong praise from just about every corner of the automotive media, it makes sense that Jeep's Toledo, Ohio, plant will make both the ladder-frame Wrangler and a Wrangler-esque-looking Jeep pickup truck on an extended platform. The best thing about this strategy is that Jeep already has a built-in customer base to feed before even thinking about branching into new markets to capture first-time Jeep buyers.
From the spy photos we've seen during the last 18 months, it looks like Jeep has done a good job of making this new pickup, first and foremost, a Jeep and then making the necessary modifications (most of which was done by extending the wheelbase) to allow it to work more like a pickup. Jeep engineers clearly collaborated with past and present Ram engineers who have had quite a bit of success with that brand's full-size pickup truck lineup. In fact, from the photos we've seen, the rear axles on the new Jeep look similar to the setup on the 2019 Ram 1500. We hope that ends up being true on the production-model Jeep pickup, whatever its name.
As to that name, there has been a lot of recent buzz on JeepScramblerforum.com about the actual name of the new mid-size pickup. Many media outlets, like PickupTrucks.com, thought the Scrambler name from Jeep's old CJ days was the favorite, but now it seems the Gladiator nameplate could be making a return. In fact, JeepScramblerforum.com just changed its name to JeepGladiatorforum.com. Some might remember that the Jeep Gladiator concept from 13 years ago was also an extended-cab, Wrangler-based pickup that got huge praise but never got the corporate greenlight. It should be interesting to see what Jeep finally does with this new mid-size pickup that is likely to be larger than past full-size Jeep pickups. More to come.
Manufacturer images of 2005 Jeep Gladiator Concept
Comments
Personally, I like the idea of an extended cab, Wrangler-based, pickup; I'm just upset that they took so long to bring out any version, after teasing us back in '05. I'm not sure even now if they're going to offer an extended-cab version and I simply do not LIKE the concept of a full four-door version. And having anything more than 'jump seats' in the extended cab is a waste of space. When the supposedly open floor is already half-occupied by a permanent plinth just to support the seat cushion, you loose the ability to put a tool box or other larger object back there. At least GM gives the option of removing those seats, though you now lose the capability to carry a third and/or fourth person back there, too, when the need arises (no matter how rare that may be.)
So. I like that they're finally producing it; I HOPE they offer an extended-cab version; but it's far too late for me, since I've made my decision and won't be buying again for at least 6-8 years, if that soon.
A ext cab in a Wrangler pu is the worst compared to a standard fare cab.
The reason is weight.
Some of you little peanis guys should realise that a ext cab isn’t the best for everything.
Allpar.com had released the official photos. It will be called Gladiator, not Scrambler
Allpar.com has released the official photos, and it will be called Gladiator, not Scrambler
Allpar didn't release them, they stole them from a Jeep forum
This little peanis guy would like a extended cab also.
Looking at the bottom photo and I wonder if the actual production vehicles will have that large removable top? Where would you store it? It would take up the entire space of the box! Other than that I like it. Should take the thunder away from the 40 potential Ranger buyers. LOL
the OP said the rear end assembly looks similar to the1/2 ton Ram. So that means it comes with air suspension, which will be great.
I have always had Jeeps of some kind, but will not be getting this one, unless it can tow 7k pounds like our GC and Colorado and carry 700 in the bed like my Colorado can and does.
This is a perfect fit for chrysler to gain some small truck sales. Jeep is a very popular brand and will be a very good competitor to the Bison ZR2, Canyon and Colorado from G.M. Good looking rugged and useful. Needs a Hemi from AEV.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgGOWqpU89Q
That’s one ugly thing. I smell failure.
All they had to do was but a 70 Series Land Cruiser. Reverse engineer it to be 1/5 as durable and robust. Throw a 3/5 price tag on it and sell all they can make.
Luckily they have lots of people driving around with, It's a Jeep thing you wouldn't understand, stickers.
They will be very happy.
Jeep needs this truck in a crewcab version and it will be a smashing success. People are tired of what has now become a cookie cutter midsize play with the reintroduction of the Ranger. The JEEP brand is a great platform from which FCA to announce its re-entry into this midsize market.
You the the new ford F450 truck for 2020 https://bit.ly/2BeRIyc
GMSRGREAT, Jeep has already said it will be a crew cab ONLY, that picture is from 2005 when they thought about building a truck...
Gladiator name an homage to slavery and forced combat to death.
About as PC as Washington Redskins.
Nobody has the off road world more covered than Chrysler with legendary brands from Ram and Jeep both 4x4 pioneers. This new Gladiator pick up will have a solid front axle, lockers, and all the different traction control and off road software modes to back it up. Compared to a Bison or Ranger it will be a superior choice for off roaders. After market is already in place for any and all upgrades. AEV for a Hemi install, rims, lift, ect...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdVB0utpl0s
Like the Ranger, GM Twins, Tacoma and Frontier, this isn’t for everyone. But I seriously doubt it will fail. People are gravitating towards pickups more and more. And many of these folks have families. So the crew cab with a bed plus Jeep style will appeal to a good number of buyers. And for the rest, well, there are five other brands to chose from.
If i want useless jump seats with no leg room, I'll keep my king cab Frontier. Put in a flat floor and offer storage container solutions or comfy pet containment area.
The jeep pickup will have strong competition. Its really only going to adhere to the more heavily minded off road enthusiasts like well..jeep owners. Theres much better handling and payload mid size trucks out there than this truck will be and i cant see it being a huge seller as their current jeep is. Kinda why they dropped the Scrambler.
This truck is a hot mess. I have advised my client to steer clear of it.
Yuppie vehicle alert!
Taking a Jeep and slapping a bed on it, wow, so original, not!
I don't see this being a success. Like others have said the mid-size truck market is full of more capable trucks. It looks awful too, like an H3T with a Wrangler front end.
For all the Fiat and Hummer fans its coming. Well its literally been coming almost forever now. But its supposedly actually gonna be soon. Regardless of the name and Scrambler is not a good one it will be a very niche pretend truck. Focused on status, being Fiat/different, and off roady. Look for sales and fans similar to the HT and that don't have as many friends or care about keeping their stuff dry as 4door wrangler owners. Hopefully Fiat one this model will even out and improve this badge's reputation for inconsistent quality/workmanship.
I don’t see why people are saying there are more capable trucks in the midsize segment. First, the photos used in the article are of the gladiator concept from years ago. So you shouldn’t assume it will look like that. Also, as per the rumors, it has class leading tow and payload numbers. No, it’s not a perfect product but if a perfect product existed, then there would be no need for the other brands. That said, if the leaked info is accurate, it is indeed very capable and a legitimate contender if they can keep the prices in the right range.
"Looking at the bottom photo and I wonder if the actual production vehicles will have that large removable top? Where would you store it? It would take up the entire space of the box! Other than that I like it. Should take the thunder away from the 40 potential Ranger buyers. LOL" ---- Posted by: What The Heck
--- A similar "large removable top" already exists in the Jeep Wrangler lineup and owners very literally don't care that they can't store it on/in the car; it's meant to be stored in the basement/garage during the warm months of the year.
Obviously, you're not a Jeep person.
"A ext cab in a Wrangler pu is the worst compared to a standard fare cab. The reason is weight.
Some of you little peanis guys should realise that a ext cab isn’t the best for everything." ---- Posted by: Jeff smith
A) Learn how to spell;
B) An extended cab is lighter than a crew cab;
C) There has been no suggestion from Jeep that they're including a standard cab.
Ergo, your whole argument is null and void.
"the OP said the rear end assembly looks similar to the1/2 ton Ram. So that means it comes with air suspension, which will be great.
I have always had Jeeps of some kind, but will not be getting this one, unless it can tow 7k pounds like our GC and Colorado and carry 700 in the bed like my Colorado can and does." ---- Posted by: Dave
--- Then you're in luck, since the official statements from Jeep claim a 7k+ towing capacity and somewhere in excess of 1300# payload capacity.
The Jeep Pentastar V6 is a better tow engine than the Taco V6.
Buddy has a Taco TRD, another has a Grand Cherokee with the 3.6 V6 and 8speed combo. Both towing equal sized Coleman pop ups, and I was hauling a 24’ open deck with 3-UTVs, we were constantly slowing down for the TACO in the AZ and CO Hills. Granted, the folding campers were a little over 3,700 lbs loaded, plus 2 guys and lots of gear in each vehicle, the Taco V6 just wasn’t getting it done. The Gladiator will out tow/haul the Taco, no doubt. The other guys, well, I’m not sure that will happen.
I see this as being a ninch vehicle mainly for Jeep owners who want a pickup. It is not as practicle nor will it offer the same onroad driving dynamics as the other midsize trucks already on the road.
I see this as being a ninch vehicle mainly for Jeep owners who want a pickup. It is not as practicle nor will it offer the same onroad driving dynamics as the other midsize trucks already on the road.
If this truck looks like the picture above, I think they will struggle to sell 50,000 a year. Jeep looking vehicles appeal to Jeep people most other will ignore this truck
I see this as being a ninch vehicle mainly for Jeep owners who want a pickup. It is not as practicle nor will it offer the same onroad driving dynamics as the other midsize trucks already on the road.
Posted by: papajim | Nov 23, 2018 6:20:11 PM
FAKE papa. What a jerk you have to be to copy someone's handle.
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