Gladiator Mojave Becomes the First “Desert Rated” Jeep
FCA came to the 2020 Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto to present the all-new Jeep Gladiator Mojave, an even more extreme version of its midsize pickup.
Surely you know about Jeep’s “Trail Rated” badge, don’t you? It certifies that certain models have the necessary features and capabilities to meet the brand’s particular standards for off-road performance. Well, this Gladiator is the first one to wear the new “Desert Rated” badge, which represents the ultimate in high-speed off-road capability and performance while traversing grueling desert and sand environments.
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As FCA explains, every Desert Rated 4x4 Jeep vehicle has been developed and has succeeded against a series of strenuous tests in five categories: ride control and stability; traction; ground clearance; maneuverability; and desert prowess.
More specifically, the Jeep Gladiator Mojave boasts a reinforced frame, specially tuned FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks with external reservoirs, industry-exclusive FOX front hydraulic jounce bumpers, a one-inch front suspension lift with a silver front skid plate, stronger axles with cast-iron steering knuckles, step sand slider side rails, aggressive front seats with integrated upper bolsters and standard 33-inch Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires.
Under the heavy-duty performance hood with centre scoop is the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine delivering 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque via a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The Command-Trac 4x4 system features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio.
An Off-Road Plus button allows drivers to adjust throttle, transmission shift points and traction control for peak performance on higher speed passes on sand terrain, as well as during low-speed rock crawling. And debuting later this year, it will be possible—for the first time on a Jeep—to lock the rear axle at high speeds while in “4H.”
The 2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave will arrive in showrooms this spring.
