2026 Jeep Gladiator Buyer’s Guide | River Front CDJR
Meet the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Lineup
Gladiator gives you the open-air Jeep experience with real pickup utility. Removable tops and doors, stout Dana 44 axles, a five-foot steel bed, and a 3.6L Pentastar V6 that tows with confidence. At River Front Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in North Aurora, we keep it simple. Real deals, clear info, and a team that lives this stuff every day.
What’s New for 2026
Jeep kept the core formula and added smart updates compared to 2025.
- New quick-release door hinges and clean removable-top experience straight from the factory.
- Sport S adds available Dark Sky Appearance Package with performance hood and body-color flares.
- Sport S gains a new Premium Package with 12-way power front seats and body-color hardtop plus 18-inch wheels.
- Sahara joins the lineup as a comfort-focused, body-color hardtop Gladiator with premium McKinley leather, heated seats and wheel, power front seats, and advanced driver-assist tech.
- Technology and Convenience groups reshuffled for simpler bundling on Sport S, Willys, Mojave, Sahara, and Rubicon.
- Color palette refreshed. 2026 features shades like Hydro Blue, Anvil, Firecracker Red, Bright White, Mojito, Granite Crystal Metallic, Black, Reign, and the heritage ’41 color.
- Towing figures hold strong. Max Tow Package still delivers up to 7,700 lb when properly equipped.
Trim Level Breakdown
Sport
Classic Jeep pickup. Command-Trac part-time 4x4, Dana 44 axles, skid plates, 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wash-out interior, and the Torx toolkit for top and door removal. LED bed lighting, tie-downs, and the damped 3-position tailgate handle the weekend runs.
Popular adds. Freedom Top 3-piece hardtop, Mopar spray-in bedliner, Trailer Tow and Auxiliary Switch Group, and the Max Tow Package with wide-track axles and 4.10 gears.
Sport S
Adds everyday comfort and driver-assist capability. You get a premium-wrapped steering wheel, illuminated visors, deep-tint windows, remote keyless entry, automatic headlamps, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, and Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus.
Packages worth a look. Technology Group with Uconnect 5 NAV and 115-volt outlet, Convenience Group with dual-zone ATC, heated seats and wheel, passive entry, and windshield with Corning Gorilla Glass. New for 2026 are the Dark Sky Appearance Package and the Premium Package with 12-way power seats and body-color hardtop.
Willys
The value off-road spec. It brings a rear electronic locker, Willys suspension with heavy-duty Red shocks, heavy-duty rock rails, Off-Road Plus mode, Class IV hitch, LED lighting, gloss-black grille and bumper accents, body-color fender flares, 17-inch black wheels, and LT255/75R17C on-/off-road tires. Trailer hitch zoom and auxiliary switches come ready to use.
Add Selec-Trac full-time 4x4, the Technology Group, Safety Group with Blind Spot Monitoring and ParkSense, and Dual-Top if you like options year round.
Sahara
Sahara is the comfort and style play. It starts with a body-color 3-piece hardtop and body-color fender flares, 18-inch machined and painted Gray wheels, and 255/70R18 all-season tires. Inside you get Premium McKinley leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic temperature control, premium console and door trim, and a rear-seat armrest with cupholders.
Power 8-way driver and passenger seats with 4-way lumbar, Corning Gorilla Glass, Advanced Brake Assist, Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus, security alarm, universal garage door opener, remote start, and deep-tint windows round it out. It is the sweet spot if you want a nicer cabin and body-color look without going to Mojave or Rubicon.
You can still stack the good stuff on top. Safety Group, Technology Group, Cargo Group with Trail Rail, Trailer Tow and Aux Switch Group, LED Headlamp and Fog Lamp Group, Dual Top Group, and Mopar body-side graphics let you build a very complete everyday Gladiator.
Mojave
Built for high-speed desert work. Wider-track heavy-duty Dana 44s, reinforced frame and track bar, Fox 2.5-inch internal-bypass shocks with reservoirs, hydraulic jounce bumpers, 1-inch front lift, 4.10 rear axle, high-clearance flares, Orange tow hooks, and a performance hood. Standard 33-inch Falken A/T tires with available M/Ts. Desert Rated badge on the fender says it all.
Options include body-color grille and flares, steel bumpers, integrated off-road camera, and the usual tech and safety bundles. New for 2026, the Mojave X package takes it to the top with body-color hardtop and flares, steel front and rear bumpers with rock protection, Mantis Green leather-trimmed seats, 12-way power front seats, and bundled Safety, Technology, and Convenience groups with Selec-Trac full-time 4x4.
Rubicon
Trail hardware from nose to tail. Rock-Trac 4x4, Tru-Lok front axle differential, electronic sway-bar disconnect, rock-rails, Red tow hooks, dual-vented hood, performance suspension with Red Tenneco shocks, and 33-inch Falkens. Steel rear bumper standard, steel front bumper available. Add the forward-facing TrailCam when you want to place a tire on a dime.
Step up to the Rubicon X package for body-color hardtop and fender flares, steel front bumper, Black leather-trimmed seats with 12-way power adjustment, and bundled Safety, Technology, and Convenience groups plus Rock-Trac full-time 4x4. It is the fully loaded Rubicon straight from the factory.
Key Packages and Options
- Max Tow Package with 4.10 Axle Ratio — wide-track Dana 44 axles, 4.10 gears, heavy-duty engine cooling, Class IV hitch, Trac-Lok limited-slip, wider flares, and GVWR up to 6,500 lb depending on model.
- Technology Group — Uconnect 5 NAV with 12.3-inch screen, GPS nav, HD Radio, USB host flip, auto-dimming mirror, 115-volt outlet, plus connected services.
- Safety Group — Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path Detection, ParkSense Rear Park Assist, and Auto High-Beam control.
- Convenience Group — Dual-zone ATC, passive entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, universal garage door opener, Emergency/Assistance Call, and more.
- Dual-Top Group — hardtop with rear defroster and sliding window plus premium Sunrider soft top and storage bag.
Towing and Payload Highlights
Every 2026 Gladiator runs the 3.6L Pentastar V6 with an 8-speed automatic. Numbers below reflect the 2026 brochure ratings when properly equipped.
| Model | Axle Ratio | Max Trailer (lb) | Max Payload (lb) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport / Sport S / Sahara | 3.73 | 4,500 | 1,025 |
| Sport / Sport S / Sahara with Trailer Tow Pkg | 3.73 | 6,000 | 1,025 |
| Sport / Sport S / Sahara with Max Tow | 4.10 | 7,700 | 1,720 |
| Willys | 3.73 | 6,000 | 900 |
| Rubicon | 4.10 | 7,000 | 1,100 |
| Mojave | 4.10 | 6,000 | 1,050 |
Always confirm configuration, GVWR, GCWR, and hitch equipment. Ratings depend on options. Use proper towing gear and follow the Owner’s Manual.
2026 vs. 2025: Quick Highlights
- New quick-release door hinges and top-off details improve the open-air setup.
- Sport S adds Dark Sky Appearance Package and a Premium Package with 12-way power seats and body-color hardtop.
- Sahara joins as a comfort and tech heavy trim with body-color hardtop, leather interior, heated seats and wheel, power front seats, and advanced safety features.
- Group content streamlined across Technology, Convenience, and Safety for cleaner build choices.
- Color lineup refreshed. 2025 offered shades like Joose and Fathom Blue. 2026 brings Reign and keeps crowd favorites like Hydro Blue, Anvil, Mojito, Granite, Bright White, Black, and Firecracker Red.
- Towing ceilings stay familiar. Max Tow remains the ticket to 7,700 lb on properly equipped Sport and Sport S.
River Front CJDR is family owned and local to the Fox Valley. We keep pricing simple and the process easy. If you want to compare trims or set up a tow-package build, tell us how you plan to use the truck and we will spec it right the first time.
Dealership Information
Testimonials
Easy and fun.
Great people to work with!!
“ We recently purchased a Jeep from River Front CJDR and I can't believe how smoothly it went. I have never had a more positive and enjoyable experience purchasing a vehicle. We are VERY pleased with their service. From the minute I requested information online to the last minute after signing the papers we have not one complaint. Citlaly, Jim S and Vinnie are the BEST!!! They truly made us feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. Great people to work with!! We highly recommend them if you are in need of a vehicle! Thank you River Front!!! ”
It was quick and easy process!
“ Miles was extremely helpful. He answered all questions I had, showed different options and didn’t pressure me into making a decision. It was quick and easy process! ”
Seamless purchase process.
“ I’ve been going to Riverfront to purchase all my cars for a reason. Trust and no pressure. Seamless purchase process. Thanks to the group and thank you Danny Spooner! ”
Great customer service
“ Great customer service. Clean. Friendly and GREAT hot chocolate while you wait. The online sales person was there to greet us as we walked in, and then she handed it over to the sales rep, Tracey, to complete the sale. Vinnie from finance was really friendly and efficient! This process is dreaded by many, but everyone at River Front made it go as smooth as can be and we were out of there in less than 2 hours, which is impeccable timing for the car sales industry. ”
Felt no pressure to buy.
“ Rob was fantastic at explaining all the new features on the 2026 Ram, felt no pressure to buy. Terry and Vinny in finance were outstanding as well! I will bring all my future business here to River Front Dodge. ”
Excellent like always.
“ Excellent like always, personal always looking for ways to save you money. ”
Erza was exceptional!
“ Erza was exceptional! We had several dealings with him over the course of 2025. He did an amazing job to make sure I was completely satisfied with the service. He went above and beyond to get the warranty coverage. The warranty company was less than cooperative but Ezra made things work for us. He is truly an asset to your company. ”
They made it hassle-free.
“ Recently purchased a used Ram at this dealership. Miles and Trish went above and beyond in terms of communication, ensuring the vehicle was checked out and prepped properly, and even followed up continuously after the sale on a few paint touch-ups. First time I actually enjoyed purchasing a vehicle. They made it hassle-free. Would definitely consider coming back in the future. ”
Highly recommend!
“ Purchased a new 2025 Jeep Wrangler today. I found River Front online and I worked primarily with Jim S who was great to work with. Communication was great and the buying process was efficient. There was ZERO pressure to buy all those "extras" most dealers push. I felt like the pricing was fair, I was treated respectfully and I would definately go back for my next Jeep! Overall a great buying experience - highly recommend! ”
Outstanding professionalism and dedication
“ I want to extend gratitude to John Provenzano, Frank Koran, and Vinnie Mazany for their outstanding professionalism and dedication during my first experience working with River Front Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram. From the very beginning, they demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, ensuring that every step of the process was seamless, transparent, and customer-focused. Their collaborative approach, attention to detail, and genuine care created not only a smooth transaction but also an iconic experience from start to finish. ”
Highly recommended!
“ Bought a 2021 Jeep Cherokee from here. Was extremely happy with the customer service and professionalism from here. I was helped out by Steve who was very kind and treated me with the upmost respect. It was my first time buying a car and Steve made it a great experience for me. Love my new car and happy to give them my business. Highly recommended! ”
Definitely give this place a shot
“ Rob was my sales guy. He was super nice no pressure great man. He let me test drive several vehicles and even stayed until 9pm for me. The dealership is very clean and has tons of inventory. I would definitely give this place a shot if you are looking for a Ram. ”
No pressure, very helpful
“ I recently had the pleasure of working with Miles Misek at River Front Ram in North Aurora. One of the nicest guys I’ve ever worked with in the car/truck sales field! Miles is very personable, knowledgeable and sincere. No pressure, very helpful and provides an outstanding customer experience. If you’re interested in a new or used Ram, check him out. You’ll be glad you did! ”
All personnel knew their job well
“ My current visit was taken care of in a timely manner and all personnel, from check-in to payment were polite and knew their job well. ”
Smooth and efficient!
“ I bought a jeep from them a couple weeks ago and everything when smoothly and efficiently! I am so pleased with the way everything went and how fast I got out without feeling pressured to do something that I didn't want to do. Raul was the best and found me the perfect car for our household with what I was looking for. 10/10 recommend him! Thanks Raul and thank you river front Chrysler ! ”
Great experience
“ Bought my 2024 Ram 2500 from riverfront this past weekend had a great experience and an amazing salesman Miles that assisted me and answered all my questions. Thank you!!!! I will definitely be back for my next truck!!!! ”
Best place
“ Best place to buy and service a car. ”
My experience was great
“ My experience was great very detailed on everything about my Jeep. Answered all my question .and Thanks again. ”
Amazing Experience
“ I’ve been meaning to leave this review for a few months now but always kept forgetting, wanted to tell a story of my amazing experience at River Front. My check engine light came on and was flashing while driving my Pacifica and I was close to River Front just before 5pm on my way home from work. I called the dealership and Renee told me if I was comfortable being the vehicle to them they probably would not be able to get it looked at that night but would get it looked at the next morning. I needed my van the next day but I had no other choice. I pulled into the service drive and was greeted within seconds by a man named Ezra who said he was one of the service advisors there. After taking my keys he met me as his desk where he asked me if I was the woman that had called and talked to Renee, after explaining what had happened Ezra started to get me written up. He told me I had a misfire on a cylinder in my engine which unfortunately was going to mean my vehicle was going to be spending the night. Turns out the gentleman that was sitting at the desk next to him was one of their mechanics who before Ezra had even finished writing me up had run back to his toolbox grabbed something and had already tested a few things and was certain he knew what was wrong. After finishing writing me up I had a seat in the waiting room and about 5 minutes later Ezra came out to tell me that one of my ignition coils was bad and needed to be replaced. To my surprise he said that they had one in stock but it was down at their truck center down the street and if I wanted to hang out Ezra said he would send his other mechanic Carlos down the street to get my part and we could get it done in the next 45 minutes! Of course I approved the repair and called my husband to tell him I wouldn’t need to be picked up. After waiting 45 minutes Ezra came out to tell me that everything was all done and that I would be getting to take my van home that night and it didn’t cost me an arm and a leg. Never before have I experienced this kind of service anywhere, let alone a auto repair place, they were honest, unbelievably helpful and fast. There really aren’t enough things I can say about the service I received from Ezra, his mechanic Ryan who did my repairs and even Carlos and Renee who helped make my crap day into a much much better one. Thank all 4 of you again for everything you do and I’ll be back to River Front for everything going forwards and I’ll make sure I send all my friends to Ezra at River Front! ”
2026 Jeep Gladiator FAQ
What changed on the 2026 Gladiator vs. 2025?
Jeep kept the formula and added smart updates. Quick-release door hinges and refined top-off details improve the open-air setup. Sport S adds a Dark Sky Appearance Package plus a Premium Package with 12-way power front seats and a body-color hardtop. Tech, Convenience, and Safety groups see cleaner bundling. The color lineup refreshes for 2026 with favorites like Hydro Blue, Anvil, Bright White, Black, Granite, Firecracker Red, Mojito, Reign, and the heritage ’41 color. Towing ceilings carry over with Max Tow still rated up to 7,700 lb when properly equipped.
Which Gladiator trim tows the most?
For maximum trailer weight, build a Sport or Sport S with the Max Tow Package and 4.10 axle. That combo is rated up to 7,700 lb. Mojave checks in at 6,000 lb. Rubicon is rated up to 7,000 lb. Willys lists 6,000 lb. Always match your hitch and payload to your actual build.
What does the Max Tow Package include?
Wide-track Dana 44 axles, 4.10:1 axle ratio, heavy-duty engine cooling, Class IV hitch receiver, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, all-terrain tires, wide fender flares, and a GVWR up to 6,500 lb depending on trim. It is the right starting point when you want real towing confidence.
Gladiator Mojave vs. Rubicon. What is the difference?
Mojave is the desert-speed specialist. Wider-track heavy-duty Dana 44s, reinforced frame and track bar, Fox 2.5-inch internal-bypass shocks with reservoirs, hydraulic jounce bumpers, 1-inch front lift, and 33-inch Falken tires. Rubicon is the rock-crawling tool. Rock-Trac 4x4, Tru-Lok front axle differential, electronic sway-bar disconnect, rock rails, Red tow hooks, and 33-inch Falkens. Different missions. Same Jeep backbone.
Can I get full-time 4x4 on a Gladiator?
Yes. Selec-Trac full-time 4x4 is available on select builds, including Sport S and Willys, and it is also bundled in the Mojave X and Rubicon X Packages. It is a great pick for mixed weather and daily use.
Are the doors and top removable on the 2026 Gladiator?
Yes. Quick-release door hinges simplify removal, and you can choose soft top, hardtop, or Dual-Top setups. Follow the Owner’s Manual for removal steps. Driving with the doors off and windshield down is for off-road use only.
What are the key towing and payload numbers for 2026?
Max Tow on Sport or Sport S reaches up to 7,700 lb with the 4.10 axle. Rubicon lists up to 7,000 lb. Mojave is 6,000 lb. Willys is 6,000 lb. Max payload can reach up to 1,720 lb on a properly equipped Sport or Sport S with Max Tow. Always verify your specific build and equipment.
Which packages should I consider for everyday driving near Aurora and Naperville?
Start with the Convenience Group for dual-zone ATC, heated seats and wheel, passive entry, and Gorilla Glass. Add the Technology Group for Uconnect 5 NAV and the 115-volt outlet. Include the Safety Group for Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Path Detection, ParkSense, and Auto High-Beam control. You get comfort, confidence, and the right tech for Chicagoland weather.
What bed size does Gladiator use, and how big is the box?
Gladiator uses a five-foot steel bed. Box volume is about 35.5 cu ft with 60.3 inches of length with the tailgate closed and 81.3 inches with it open. Width is 56.8 inches with 44.8 inches between the wheelhouses.
Are you part of the Gerald Auto Group?
River Front Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram shares the North Aurora Auto Mall with Gerald stores, but we are independently owned and family operated. We value every customer relationship and keep pricing simple and transparent.
“ Overall great and smooth experience. Dan Spooner and the rest of the team made buying a vehicle easy and fun. ”