Lucas Bell 
The Jeep Gladiator is a standout model in the mid-size truck segment, thanks in no small part to its off-road capability. Of course we wouldn’t expect anything less from a truck based on the Jeep Wrangler platform. While the off-road segment may be continuing to heat up, FCA has rolled out a host of updates for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator lineup, which includes some new special edition models and new features.
The Jeep Gladiator 80th Anniversary Edition and Willys Edition models will both be joining the pickup’s lineup for the 2021 model year. The 80th Anniversary Edition will feature exterior treatments such as Neutral Grey Metallic exterior accents, 18-inch Granite Crystal wheels, and unique commemorative badging. Inside the truck, you’ll find an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen and berber floor mats. The Willys Edition will feature its usual graphics package, as well as a limited-slip rear differential, rock rails and a set of 32-inch Mud-Terrain tires.
Outside of the new special edition models, the biggest change coming for 2021 is the fact that the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine will be offered across the lineup. With a factory rating of 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, the EcoDiesel brings a great blend of efficiency and power to the off-roading segment. Another lineup wide change comes by way of a new full-time four 4×4 system option. A full-time Selec-Trac two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio will be available on the Sport, Overland and Mojave models. A more aggressive 4:1 ratio Rock-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case will be available for the all-mighty Rubicon.
Other updates for the 2021 Jeep Gladiator include a TrailCam forward-facing off-road camera on Overland models, which you can access through the Off-Road pages section of Uconnect. There’s also optional LED headlamps and fog lamps available for the Gladiator Sport models, which should dress up the front end a bit.
So while there aren’t any massive changes coming to the Gladiator for 2021, there are some new options that actually seem useful for buyers. The addition of an optional full-time 4×4 system is welcomed, as is the proliferation of the EcoDiesel powertrain. As far the 80th Anniversary and Willys Edition models go, we all know how the Jeep faithful feel about their special edition off-roaders.
