Jeep has always been known for its rugged and capable off-road vehicles, and the Jeep Gladiator is no exception. The Gladiator is a midsize pickup truck that offers impressive off-road performance and versatility.
Two of the most popular trims of the Gladiator are the Mojave and the Rubicon. While both trims offer impressive off-road capabilities, there are some key differences between the two that are worth exploring.
When it comes to powertrain, the Mojave and Rubicon are equal. They both use a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
Both trims also feature four-wheel drive with a transfer case and can be ordered with either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. However, the Mojave has a few key differences that set it apart from the Rubicon.
Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs Rubicon
The Mojave is designed to be a high-speed desert runner, while the Rubicon is more focused on rock crawling and extreme off-road terrain. The Mojave has a unique suspension system that includes Fox shocks, hydraulic jounce bumpers, and a reinforced frame.
It also has a one-inch front suspension lift and a wider track for improved stability at high speeds. The Rubicon, on the other hand, has a more traditional off-road suspension with locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and a front axle that can be electronically locked for improved traction on challenging terrain.
Exterior
Both the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon have a rugged and bold exterior that is typical of Jeep vehicles. However, there are some key differences between the two models that set them apart.
The Mojave features unique orange tow hooks and decals, while the Rubicon has red tow hooks and decals. The Mojave also has a unique hood with a scoop that provides extra ventilation to the engine. On the other hand, the Rubicon has a hood with a power bulge that gives it a more muscular look.
Another difference between the two models is the wheels. The Mojave has 17-inch wheels with a unique design, while the Rubicon has 17-inch wheels with a different design. The Mojave also has a reinforced frame and a one-inch front suspension lift for better off-road performance.
Both models have removable doors and a fold-down windshield, which is a signature feature of Jeep vehicles. The Rubicon has rock rails to protect the body from damage during off-road driving, while the Mojave has desert-rated Fox shocks for better handling on rough terrain.
Overall, both the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon have an impressive exterior that is designed to handle tough terrain and look good doing it. While there are some differences between the two models, both offer plenty of features for off-road enthusiasts.
Interior
When it comes to the interior, both the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon offer a comfortable and high-quality cabin. However, there are some differences between the two models that are worth noting.
The Mojave features unique interior accents, including orange stitching on the seats, dashboard, and center console. The seats are also made of a durable cloth material that is designed to withstand the rigors of off-road driving. The Rubicon, on the other hand, has a more traditional interior with leather-trimmed seats and a more subdued color scheme.
Both models come with a standard 8.4-inch touchscreen display that houses the infotainment system. The system is easy to use and provides access to features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. The Rubicon also comes with a standard 7-inch driver information display that provides important vehicle information such as tire pressure and fuel economy.
One area where the Mojave stands out is in its storage options. It comes with a lockable bin in the rear seatback that is perfect for storing valuables or smaller items. The Rubicon, on the other hand, does not offer this feature.
Off-Road Capability
When it comes to off-roading, both the Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon are capable vehicles. However, each trim has its own strengths and weaknesses.
The Rubicon, for example, is equipped with Jeep’s Rock-Trac transfer case, which features a 4.0:1 low-range ratio. This allows for more precise control and crawling over obstacles.
Additionally, the Rubicon has an electronic sway bar disconnect, which helps improve articulation and traction. The Rubicon also has locking front and rear differentials, which provide superior traction in challenging terrain.
The Mojave, on the other hand, is designed for high-speed off-road driving. It features a modified suspension system that provides better stability and handling at higher speeds.
The Mojave also has a wider rear track, which helps improve stability. Additionally, the Mojave has hydraulic jounce bumpers, which help absorb impact when driving over rough terrain.
Both trims have impressive ground clearance, with the Mojave having one inch more than the Rubicon. The Rubicon has a crawl ratio of 77.2:1 with the manual transmission and 77.2:1 with the automatic.
The Mojave, however, still delivers a very impressive crawl ratio of 57.3:1 with the AL6 six-speed and 52.6:1 with the 850RE eight-speed auto.
Overall, both trims are capable off-road vehicles, but the Rubicon is better suited for slow and technical terrain, while the Mojave is designed for high-speed off-roading.
Powertrain
When it comes to powertrain, the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon are quite similar. Both models come equipped with Jeep’s 3.6-liter V6 engine, which is capable of producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. In addition, both models feature four-wheel drive with transfer case and can be ordered with either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission.
One key difference between the two models is their gearing. The Rubicon comes standard with a 4.10 axle ratio, while the Mojave features a 4.56 axle ratio. This means that the Mojave is better suited for high-speed off-roading, while the Rubicon is better suited for low-speed rock crawling.
Another notable difference between the two models is their suspension systems. The Mojave features specially-tuned Fox shocks, which provide excellent off-road performance and a comfortable ride on the pavement. The Rubicon, on the other hand, comes equipped with heavy-duty Dana 44 axles and locking differentials, which make it a better choice for extreme off-roading.
Overall, both the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon are highly capable off-road vehicles with similar powertrains. However, the Mojave’s higher axle ratio and specially-tuned suspension make it better suited for high-speed desert running, while the Rubicon’s heavy-duty axles and locking differentials make it a better choice for extreme rock crawling.
Price and Value
When it comes to price, both the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon have a starting price of $43,875. However, the Rubicon offers more optional added-on accessories, which can increase the final price.
On the other hand, the Mojave comes with unique features that are not available on the Rubicon, such as the FOX hydraulic jounce bumpers, which can improve the vehicle’s off-road performance.
When it comes to value, it depends on your driving needs and preferences. If you are looking for a vehicle that can handle tough rock-crawling terrains, the Rubicon might be the better choice.
However, if you prefer desert driving and want a vehicle that can handle high-speed off-road driving, the Mojave might be the better option.
Furthermore, the Mojave offers a unique look with its orange accents and hood decal, which might appeal to some buyers. However, the Rubicon has a more classic Jeep look, which might be preferred by others.
| Jeep Gladiator Mojave | Jeep Gladiator Rubicon |
|---|---|
| Starting Price: $43,875 | Starting Price: $43,875 |
| FOX hydraulic jounce bumpers | Rock-Trac® 4×4 System |
| Unique orange accents and hood decal | Classic Jeep look |
| Designed for high-speed off-road driving | Designed for tough rock-crawling terrains |
Ultimately, the choice between the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon comes down to your personal preferences and driving needs. Both vehicles offer exceptional off-road capabilities and unique features that can enhance your driving experience. It’s important to carefully consider your options and choose the vehicle that best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Conclusion
After reviewing the differences between the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon, it is clear that both models offer impressive off-road capabilities and unique features. The Rubicon is the more traditional off-road option, with its Rock-Trac transfer case and locking differentials. The Mojave, on the other hand, is designed for high-speed desert running, with its Fox shocks and reinforced frame.
When it comes to choosing between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you plan on tackling extreme rock crawling and technical terrain, the Rubicon is the better choice. However, if you prefer high-speed desert running or want a more comfortable ride on the road, the Mojave might be the better option.
It is important to note that both models come with a similar price tag, so it is worth considering which features are most important to you before making a decision. Overall, the Jeep Gladiator is a versatile and capable off-road vehicle, and both the Mojave and Rubicon are excellent choices for those who want to take their adventures off the beaten path.
