Really want a Gladiator but having trouble taking the plunge - help me do it!

[Lexington]

After much research and test drives I've decided that the Gladiator is the car I want. Originally I'd ended up on the wrangler but it just doesn't have enough storage and the Gladiator solves that.

Hopefully I don't need to list all the reasons Gladiators are awesome (that's why you're all here!) but I'm having trouble pulling the trigger because of two big issues:

1) It's so damn long. I live in a big city (SF) and I'm really worried about never being able to find parking, not fitting in parking garages, and generally just having trouble getting around.

2) I often drive friends and clients around in my car. The wind and road noise doesn't bother me but I wonder if it might drive other people crazy.

Are these just dealbreakers that I need to walk away from?

I just traded in a 2018 platinum f150 and absolutely glad I did. Gladiator is much easier to move around and park. As to wind noise, I just don't notice it. I think you'll be happy you made the move, just do it!

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[Sc7902]

Get one, you will love it..

 

[SquirrelNuts]

Coming from two previous JKU's, the JT is noticeably longer and slightly more difficult to park in tight spaces. It's the same length as the old 1995 Chevy K1500 Extended Cab pickup I used to have - although the more narrow body helps.

I'd parallel my JKU's no problem... haven't had to with my JT yet...

Like many have said about your clients... really depends on who they are. We used to do big group dinners with clients where a few of us would drive over to the hotel where they are staying and pick them up. Some nice days I would have my top and doors off. I've literally had a few see my jeep and run to it with a big smile on their face and something like "Oh, I'm jumpin' in the Jeep!!"

 

[OldButStillJeeping]

Respectfully, if you're job requires escorting clients. Lease a BMW.

Get a JT for yourself, for your days off.

 

[Buzzlb]

If you want a sports car get a BMW, luxury-Mercedes or Audi,
Get what you want and what you are going to Use and Enjoy.
Pay the Money, and don’t look back.

 

[snide]

Just get the Gladiator already. When my lease is up in two years, I'll probably get another.

 

[mep4wd]

As I write this I am in Moab.
I am basically a newbie who purchased a Gladiator back in November.
It's bone stock, a Rubicon with 33" all terrain tires and stock suspension.

With a little spotting help from a friend I just did Hells Revenge.
NOTE: I did NOT do Hells Gate, Mickey's hot tub, or escalator.

The rest of the trail has plenty enough technical stuff to test just about anyone.

The rock rails took a few hits as did the trailer hitch receiver. That was to be expected.

Anyone who says the Gladiator isn't "capable" is listening to haters.

Oh and BTW I am 70 years old. It's the coolest toy I've ever owned.

 

[FLGladiator]

Nothing compares even outside its class, G Wagon 160k and Cybertruck waitlist is long.

 

[Toyfrog]

Nothing compares even outside its class, G Wagon 160k and Cybertruck waitlist is long.

And apparently the cyber truck has the same glass Jeep uses for the windshields.

 

[j.o.y.ride]

Roomy enough for 4 adults, maneuverable in the city, easy to park. I’ve been in plenty of hospital garages with tight parking and the gladiator is easy to park there as well.

Noise with hard top is not bad at interstate speeds. I can hold conversations with passengers and on the phone with no issues. Do not buy one with Mud Tires. Make sure they are all terrain tires or street to keep noise down.

It isn’t a Toyota Camry, we have one of those as well. The JT is fun to drive and even with the freedom panels (front hard top panels come off) and windows down, pure joy!

Good luck with your choice

Mud tires means I don't have to talk to anyone else in the truck or on the phone. They're a must have.

 

[XJADDICTION]

Mud tires means I don't have to talk to anyone else in the truck or on the phone. They're a must have.

Just purchase the right Mud Tire that will last longer than 15,000 miles before they have the whole truck shaking. My Rubicon JKUHR came with BFG MT’s they. Sucked!

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