What Makes Jeep Gladiator Trail Rated

When you see a Trail Rated badge on a Jeep Gladiator, you're looking at a truck that's passed some of the most punishing off-road tests in the industry. Jeep doesn't hand this badge out lightly—it's earned by proving excellence in five categories: traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation, and water fording. These tests aren't done in a lab—they're performed on real trails like the Rubicon and in extreme conditions like snow, mud, sand, and rocky terrain. It's all about making sure the Gladiator can take you just about anywhere with confidence and durability.

Traction is the foundation of off-road capability, and the Gladiator delivers with serious 4x4 systems. Models like the Rubicon feature the Rock-Trac 4x4 system, which includes a 4:1 low gear ratio for improved crawl control and Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials in both the front and rear axles. These help maximize grip when one or more tires lose contact with the ground. Even on more road-focused trims, the Command-Trac system provides a part-time 4WD setup that handles light trails, snow, and rain with ease. Whether you're climbing slick rocks or powering through sand dunes, the Gladiator is engineered to keep moving forward.

One of the first things you'll notice about the Gladiator is how tall it sits, especially in off-road-focused trims like the Mojave and Rubicon. With up to 11.6 inches of ground clearance, along with an aggressive approach (43.4°), breakover (20.3°), and departure (26°) angles, this truck is ready to take on steep climbs and sudden drops. Underneath, skid plates protect vital components, such as the fuel tank, transmission, and transfer case, from trail damage. And with high-clearance fender flares, there's room for larger tires—up to 35 inches stock on some trims—boosting capability even further.

You might not expect a truck this size to handle tight trails well, but the Gladiator is surprisingly nimble. With a turning diameter of just 44.5 feet, it can navigate winding forest paths and narrow canyon trails better than many SUVs. The wheelbase, while longer than a Wrangler's, is still balanced for off-road maneuvering, especially with the Rubicon's upgraded steering components. Additionally, high-performance Fox shocks and precise steering response provide you with better control when the terrain becomes technical. It's a truck that feels confident, not clunky, when the trail gets tight.

Water fording might sound like something out of a survival show, but it's a real-world challenge that the Gladiator is built to handle. With a fording depth of up to 31.5 inches, this truck can cross creeks, muddy paths, or flood-prone areas without hesitation. Jeep places the air intake up high and seals key electronics to protect the powertrain. The Gladiator also has high-mounted breathing tubes for the axles and transmission, so water doesn't sneak into places it shouldn't. Whether you're exploring after a heavy rain or crossing a shallow riverbed, the Gladiator is ready to wade in—literally.

At Dick Scott Motor Mall, we know the Jeep Gladiator inside and out—and whether you're after a new model or a gently used one, we've got the right fit for your next adventure. Keep your gear packed and your trail map handy—this truck is ready to take you wherever the road ends. If you would like to schedule a test drive or request more information, please use the contact form below.