Thanks to the Hype Dying Down, Gladiators Are ‘Much’ Cheaper
When the Gladiator first stepped into the coliseum, the hype was so real, prices were sky high. Now that the hype-storm has passed, the Roman brave is affordable.
According to some keen observations over by Tom McParland at Jalopnik, the Gladiator is now leaning more toward being an every man’s (or woman’s) truck. When the Gladiator was first announced, the hype was almost as great, if not greater, than that of the Cybertruck. As FCA advertised, it was 100%, but 100% truck. And therefore, 100% ready to break your bank. Now that they’re all over American road ways and trails, the revived Jeep truck is only about 70% ready to render you broke. Let’s take a look at some numbers, shall we?
The basic trim level was originally priced out to be around $35,040. And that was before the tax, delivery fee, etc. At it’s most expensive trim level, the Gladiator danced around a hefty price of $62,310 for the limited Launch edition. Granted, at that price it’s expected to come with some heavy duty equipment to tackle even the toughest of trails – but it was a hard pill to swallow. Especially when, even now, some off-road ready trucks (like the Chevy Silverado Custom Trail-Boss) would cost a lot less. The Rubicon edition was first priced at $45,040.
Now, looking at the prices Jeep advertises now, the Gladiator Sport (aka the affordable one) starts as $33,545. While that’s only a slight shave off of the original $35,040, it’s something. The Gladiator Rubicon, now the most expensive of the litter, now starts at $43,875. Keep in mind, however, these prices reflect the base configuration of each trim level. Once options are added on, the air gets thinner as the prices climb.
Show Me the Money!
You probably got to this point and thought, “Wait, how is only a few hundred to a thousand dollars off now affordable?” And you’d be right in asking that. What makes the difference, now, are dealer discounts and offers. McParland notes that in some parts of the US, a Gladiator is a better deal than a Wrangler. Some dealerships have discounts and rebates on the Gladiator that range from $9,000 to $12,000 in savings. Additionally, FCA is offering a special discount on those that are switching manufacturers. Well, except if you’re buying the Gladiator Rubicon.
While the news is great, there’s a reason dealerships are also called ‘stealerships.’ McParland (and I) recommend the before you march down to your local dealership expecting to reel in a trophy, that you get said deals in writing. Many times, dealerships and/or salesmen will hide destination fees and stack rebates. Thus, quoting a price that’s a lot more depressing than you were hoping for. By all means, shoot for the Gladiator. Just be sure to read and question before signing anything.
Photos: FCA Media
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