I'd say it's better. Hitting a rut going 60mph in the desert, I prefer the better grip that doesn't slip when clenching on those thumbpads. The perforations help a ton when hot, sweaty, and butt puckering.
Up-trim models always have "weird" steering wheels for grip and control, Mojave is a "desert runner". Hell, look at the C8 ZR-1, there's a reason the wheel is like this:
But yeah if you're happy you're happy. If you want the wheel though, the dealer should put it on no cost. The only other Jeep with the wheel is the Wrangler 392.
2025 X with the Mojave wheel:
https://www.fowlerdodge.com/viewdetails/new/1c6rjtegxsl507119/2025-jeep-gladiator-crew-cab-pickup
Granted if you're happy that's all that matters, but I bet you'd like the feel of the Mojave wheel better. Color the orange stitching with black sharpie.
There are 2025 Mojaves, X and "regular" with the correct wheel. Tell your dealer to get you the correct wheel. Sorry but that's bullshit and they should correct it. The correct wheel has the thick thumb pads and orange stitching. It feels better. It's unique to Mojave.
This one has the right wheel -
https://www.fowlerdodge.com/viewdetails/new/1c6rjtegxsl507119/2025-jeep-gladiator-crew-cab-pickup
So it's not a "they removed it for 2025" thing.
OMG I'd rage - the wheel is a BIG difference in feel.
https://www.calallencdjr.com/new/Jeep/2025-Jeep-Gladiator-400f2c18ac183bcc1c8b2a586dcee411.htm
WTF Jeep?
FFS California.
Yeah, I love that I have to pay CA commercial vehicle fees. "It"S A TruCk YoU MuST bE DoING HeAvY DUtY ThIngS With iT AnD CoNDuCTinG CommErCe!!! It HurTs TeH roAdZ!!!" My Blazer EV is heavier.