2025 Jeep Gladiator vs 2025 RAM 2500

The 2025 Jeep Gladiator was more than just a Jeep Wrangler with a cargo bed. Introduced in 2020, it featured a 31-inch-longer truck frame, strengthened mechanical hardware, and a unique five-link rear suspension, allowing it to tow and haul like a true pickup. Despite its awkward proportions, a suspension lift and oversized all-terrain tires improved its appearance. The Mojave trim, with its 33-inch tires and one-inch front suspension lift, was the desert runner of the lineup, offering a range of trims from the basic Sport to the rugged Rubicon. Prices ranged from $38,695 to $61,695, with a $1,995 destination charge, competitive with the Toyota Tacoma but slightly higher than the Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger. The Mojave X test truck, in a new '41 Army green paint, featured numerous upgrades, including leather seats and expanded infotainment features, bringing its MSRP to $68,425.

The 2025 RAM 2500 was a heavy-duty pickup with a commanding presence, featuring a massive vertical grille and a new split headlight design. The trim levels varied in appearance, with the Tradesman offering a basic look and the Power Wagon and Rebel featuring premium finishes. The Laramie trim introduced luxury elements like leather seating and a large touchscreen infotainment system. The Limited Longhorn and Limited models offered the ultimate in luxury, with cowboy-themed interiors and open-pore wood accents. The RAM 2500's imposing design and luxurious options made it a standout choice for those seeking both capability and comfort.

The 2025 Jeep Gladiator was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard four-wheel drive with part-time or full-time operation. The EPA estimated 19 mpg combined, but the Mojave returned 16.2 mpg during testing. The Mojave's suspension excelled on rough terrain, but its ride was stiffer than expected, and it struggled with directional stability in headwinds. The V6 engine lacked punch at higher speeds, requiring downshifts for passing. Despite its freeway shortcomings, the Gladiator was enjoyable on mountain roads, offering a relaxed driving experience.

The 2025 RAM 2500 featured a standard 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine with 405 horsepower and 429 pound-feet of torque, capable of towing nearly 9,000 pounds. The diesel option, a 6.7-liter inline-six from Cummins, offered 430 horsepower and 1,075 pound-feet of torque, with a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAM 2500's five-link rear suspension and optional air suspension provided a smooth ride, even with heavy loads. The Power Wagon excelled in off-road conditions, while the Rebel offered a balance of off-road capability and towing capacity. The RAM 2500's performance and towing capabilities made it a top choice for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2025 Jeep Gladiator improved on the Wrangler with more front legroom, thanks to power-adjustable front seats. The rear seat was tight but offered some comfort with dished cushions and amenities like air conditioning vents and USB ports. The Gladiator's roof panels were easy to remove, but storage was limited. The cargo bed featured a spray-in bedliner and rails, but lacked a step for easy access.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered various cab configurations, including Regular, Crew, and Mega Cab, providing ample space for passengers. The Crew Cab accommodated adults comfortably, while the Mega Cab offered limo-like legroom. Towing capacity varied by configuration, with the Cummins diesel option allowing up to 20,000 pounds. The RAM 2500's payload capacity reached 3,940 pounds, with the Regular Cab and Hemi V8 engine. The RAM 2500's spacious interior and towing capabilities made it a versatile choice for various needs.

The 2025 Jeep Gladiator featured a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an optional Alpine premium sound system. The Mojave X test truck included Off-Road Trail Guides and navigation, but the voice recognition system struggled with noise. The screen was legible in sunlight but collected dust, affecting visibility. The Alpine sound system and steering wheel controls were highlights of the Gladiator's tech offerings.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12-inch or 14.4-inch screen available on higher trims. The Laramie trim and above featured a 12.3-inch digital cluster, and the rearview mirror could be upgraded to a screen with multiple views. The RAM 2500's infotainment system included trailer reverse steering control and Trailer-Tow Pages, but lacked Ford's payload weight display. The RAM 2500's advanced technology and towing features made it a tech-savvy choice for drivers.

The 2025 Jeep Gladiator offered limited safety systems, with six airbags and optional features like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was unavailable on lower trims and optional on others. The Gladiator received a four-star frontal-impact rating and a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA. The adaptive cruise control system was effective at lower speeds but could react abruptly at higher speeds.

The 2025 RAM 2500 offered a comprehensive safety package, with optional features like adaptive steering, blind-spot monitoring, and pedestrian detection. Additional packages included forward collision warning and lane keep assist. The RAM 2500's camera technologies, including a surround-view camera system, enhanced safety. The NHTSA gave the RAM 2500 a four-star rating, while the IIHS had not yet rated it. The RAM 2500's safety features provided peace of mind for drivers.