The Jeep Gladiator has been a smashing sales success since it arrived on the scene for the 2020 model year. A midlife refresh isn't due for another model year or two. In the meantime, Jeep's sole pickup truck continues into the 2022 model year relatively unchanged, though with one exception: a $2,020 price increase on a majority of trims.
The base 2021 Gladiator Sport costs $36,555 including the $1,595 destination charge. For 2022, that figure increases to $36,910. That's only a $355 difference but if you want the available eight-speed automatic instead of the standard six-speed manual, the price is now $38,910. Unfortunately, the rest of the trims all see that $2,020 increase over 2021.
The Overland trim will now cost at least $47,015, and the Mojave and Rubicon both kick off at $50,855. How does Jeep justify the new pricing? Simple: a standard 8.4-inch UConnect 4C navigation system. Right now, that feature is a $1,995 option. Now that it'll be standard in those aforementioned trims, it's really more like a $25 increase.
Still, we think buyers will appreciate the upgraded system instead of the current 7-inch unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It's part of the Premium Audio Group package that bundles together things like a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth Streaming Audio, Voice Command, Hands-Free Calling, and turn-by-turn navigation.
Truth be told, Jeep's decision to increase Gladiator pricing is completely justified because it's making a very desirable package standard. Then again, anyone who doesn't want the upgraded system and normally would have been completely satisfied with the 7-inch unit are out of luck. They have no choice but to pay up. But again, they'll be getting quite a lot for their money.
Aside from this change, the 2022 Gladiator remains unchanged from last year. That means the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 gas engine with 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque comes standard. There's also the optional 3.0-liter EcoDiesel with 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of twist. Buyers can also opt for those very cool half doors, a $4,590 option.