The Jeep Gladiator has a lot to offer. It’s a midsize pickup that, when it comes down to it, is a more useful Jeep Wrangler. It’s able to tow up to 7,760-pounds and, much like the iconic Wrangler, offers up plenty of off-road prowess. But that doesn’t mean the Jeep Gladiator is the perfect pickup for everyone. After all, it boasts a high starting price and not everyone is after a pickup that’s able to take on the trails. So if you aren’t sold on this year’s model? Consider these Jeep Gladiator alternatives instead.

The Honda Ridgeline is a satisfying alternative to the Jeep Gladiator

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator was given some high ratings by Consumer Reports. It earned a 65 overall score, which may not sound impressive to start, but Consumer Reports also gave it a five out of five predicted reliability rating. This year’s model earned a five out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating too. According to Consumer Reports, owners will be most satisfied with the pickup’s styling, driving experience, and comfort. An impressive 83% of Gladiator owners even said they would buy the pickup again if given the opportunity too.

This year’s Gladiator isn’t the only compact pickup truck to earn Consumer Reports’ praises. In fact, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline was able to achieve similar ratings, even outranking the Gladiator. Consumer Reports gave the 2021 Honda Ridgeline an 80 overall score. It did significantly better than the Gladiator in road tests and earned a five out of five predicted owner satisfaction rating. Based on Consumer Reports’ data, 82% of owners would buy a Honda Ridgeline again. 

The bad news is that while the Ridgeline may have earned some impressive scores from Consumer Reports, it’s not quite as brawny as the Gladiator. If you need a pickup that offers serious towing power? This alternative to the Jeep Gladiator may not be the best choice for you.

The Ford Ranger is a cheaper alternative to the Jeep Gladiator

Now, the Jeep Gladiator isn’t the most expensive pickup truck out there but it is pricy. For a base model, you can expect to spend approximately $33,565. This year’s Gladiator only gets more expensive from there too. Several trim levels will have you spending upwards of $40,000, while the range-topping High Altitude will cost you just under $52,000. And that’s without any upgrades.

For a cheaper alternative to the Jeep Gladiator, consider the Ford Ranger. This year’s new Ford Ranger boasts a base price of $24,820, which is significantly lower than the Jeep Gladiator’s base price. Upgrade to the Ford Ranger XLT and you can anticipate spending $28,870. Opt for the range-topping Ford Ranger Lariat instead, and this year’s model will cost you about $32,910.

The Ford Ranger offers plenty of towing power too. While this year’s Gladiator is able to tow up to 7,760-pounds, this year’s Ranger claims a slightly lower maximum towing capacity of 7,500-pounds when equipped with the available Trailer Tow Package. Opt for the Tremor Off-Road Package, and much like the Gladiator, this year’s Ranger is more than capable of spending some time at the trailhead.

Choose the Ram 1500 for a full-size alternative to the Jeep Gladiator 

Maybe you’re ready to upgrade to a full-size truck. If that’s the case, the Ram 1500 is a pickup that deserves your attention. With a base price of $32,595, this alternative to the Jeep Gladiator has plenty to offer. According to Car and Driver, this year’s model boasts a “luxury-grade interior and cushy ride quality.” It offers up a long list of premium amenities too. Consider available features like leather seating, a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, and an available 10-square-foot panoramic sunroof. This year’s 1500 will have you towing a maximum of 12,750-pounds too.