2026 Jeep Gladiator vs Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, and Colorado Complete Comparison Review

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator stands alone as America's only convertible pickup truck in a segment filled with competitors. This mid-size truck comparison for 2026 examines how the Gladiator measures up against the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier.

Gladiator's Unique Open-Air Design

What sets the Gladiator apart is its ability to transform into an open-air vehicle. First, remove the two small panels over the front seats, then unscrew the six screws holding the main roof section. The windshield folds down after removing four screws at the header and detaching the wipers. This pickup can also splash through 31.5 inches of water, allowing you to tackle deep crossings that would stop most competitors.

Highway wind noise is a reality with the soft top, particularly at higher speeds, though wind deflectors and proper door seal maintenance can help. Competitors might offer a quieter highway ride with their fixed roofs, though they cannot match the Gladiator's recreational appeal.

• Removable roof panels and fold-down windshield
• 31.5-inch water fording capability
• Only convertible pickup truck in America

Towing and Payload Showdown

The Jeep Gladiator's towing capacity reaches 7,700 pounds when equipped with the Max Tow Package. Payload varies significantly from 950 pounds to 1,725 pounds, depending on your chosen trim and equipment. The Chevrolet Colorado matches this 7,700-pound towing limit with its Advanced Trailering Package, while the Ford Ranger delivers 7,500 pounds.

The Ranger also claims the highest payload rating in the class at nearly 1,788 pounds. Toyota Tacoma trails with a 6,500-pound maximum towing capacity, and the Nissan Frontier sits at 7,150 pounds with its Tow Package.

• Gladiator: 7,700 lbs towing, 950-1,725 lbs payload
• Colorado: 7,700 lbs towing with Advanced Trailering Package
• Ranger: 7,500 lbs towing, 1,788 lbs payload (class-leading)

Off-Road Capability

The Jeep Gladiator's off-road capability gets a further boost with its Mojave X trim, mainly because of its design. Its 44.7-degree approach angle means it can climb sharp inclines without scraping the front. When going downhill, its 25.5-degree departure angle helps it clear obstacles, and 11.6 inches of ground clearance to navigate rocky trails confidently.

The Rubicon trim adds specialized equipment, including an electronic disconnecting sway bar for improved wheel articulation over obstacles, and Tru-Lok Electronic Locking Differentials that maximize traction when you need it most. The Colorado ZR2 Bison offers a 38.2-degree approach angle with 12.2 inches of ground clearance. The Tacoma TRD Pro counters with a 27.4-degree departure angle.

• Gladiator Mojave X: 44.7° approach, 25.5° departure, 11.6" clearance
• Rubicon adds electronic sway bar and locking differentials
• Colorado ZR2: 38.2° approach, 12.2" ground clearance

Interior Space and Technology Features

Every Gladiator includes a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Removing the roof and doors can also make the space feel even more roomy. You get ample storage with space offered behind the backseats and under them, plus a maximum cargo capacity of 35.5 cubic feet.

In comparison, the redesigned Tacoma counters with a larger 14-inch touchscreen, while the Nissan Frontier offers both King Cab and Crew Cab options with 49.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity.

• Gladiator: 12.3-inch touchscreen, 35.5 cubic feet cargo capacity
• Tacoma: 14-inch touchscreen display
• Frontier: 49.2 cubic feet maximum cargo capacity

Which Mid-Size Truck Offers the Best Value for Your Needs

Choose the Gladiator for its unique open-air experience and extreme rock-crawling capability. The Toyota Tacoma consistently holds its resale value better than nearly any other truck in the segment. The Chevrolet Colorado with the Advanced Trailering Package offers maximum towing on a budget.

At Duluth Dodge Minnesota, we can help you find the right mid-size truck for your needs. Visit us today and experience the Gladiator firsthand.