2023 Jeep Gladiator Vs. 2023 Toyota Tacoma: A Comprehensive Comparison
Finding the perfect midsize pickup truck might require comparing the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma. These two midsize trucks for sale are popular due to their adventurous all-terrain capabilities and range of cab and trim configurations, but picking between the two can seem challenging at first glance.
That's why Bice Motors is here with a comprehensive Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison. We're confident you'll find your favorite midsize pickup once you compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma in key areas like engine and performance specs, towing capacity, off-road capability, trim levels, and interior features.
Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma: Engine & Performance Specs
The new Jeep Gladiator comes standard with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, developing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma starts with a 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing just 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. So, it's at a significant power, performance, and capability disadvantage when it goes head-to-head with the 285-horsepower Gladiator pickup.
The Jeep truck's available 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 generates up to 442 pound-feet of torque and 260 horsepower. In comparison, the Toyota Tacoma pickup's available 3.5-liter V-6 makes 265 pound-feet of torque and 278 horsepower. So, whether comparing the standard engines or the available powertrains, the Jeep model generates significantly more torque than the Tacoma.
These midsize pickup trucks provide impressive highway fuel economy. The powerful new Jeep Gladiator for sale earns up to an EPA-estimated 23 MPG Highway1 rating. The Toyota model matches the Jeep truck, returning up to an EPA-estimated 23 MPG Highway2 with its 159-horsepower base engine.
2023 Jeep Gladiator vs. 2023 Toyota Tacoma: Payload & Towing Capacity
When we compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma in payload and towing capacity, the Jeep pickup impresses again. The base model can pull 4,000 pounds,3 but this midsize truck can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped.
The Tacoma powered by the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is quite as capable, with its 3,500-pound maximum tow rating.4 However, when properly equipped with the more robust V-6 engine, this model can tow up to 6,800 pounds.
Payload capabilities for the base models are comparable, with the Jeep Gladiator 1,700-pound payload capacity narrowly topping the Tacoma truck's 1,685-pound rating. If you're shopping for a sporty and rugged midsize truck with impressive payload and towing capacity, the Gladiator is the pickup for you. We invite you to learn more about the Jeep Gladiator towing capacity today.
| 2023 Jeep Gladiator | 2023 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Engine | 3.6L V-6 | 2.7L I-4 |
| Horsepower | 285 | 159 |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 2WD |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty/Hwy) | 16/231 | 20/232 |
| Payload Capacity | 1,700 lbs | 1,685 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs3 | 3,500 lbs4 |
| Bed Length | 60.3 in | 73.7 in |
| Bed Width (Minimum) | 44.8 in | 41.5 in |
| Bed Depth | 33.9 in | 19.1 in |
Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma Comparison: Off-Road Capability
Both midsize trucks have a reputation for rugged all-terrain performance, but only one comes with legendary Jeep off-road capability. The Gladiator is Trail Rated, and even Desert Rated in one trim, to provide off-roading performance, excelling in categories like traction, water fording, articulation, ground clearance, stability, durability, and maneuverability.
Every new Jeep Gladiator truck is equipped with a Jeep 4x4 system for confident all-terrain performance, no matter the road, trail, or weather conditions. The Toyota Tacoma comes standard with rear-wheel drive but offers a part-time 4WD system to help improve its all-weather traction and control.
While there are several all-terrain-inspired trim levels for the Toyota model, like the Tacoma TRD Off-Road, this pickup truck can't quite match the off-roading capabilities of a Jeep vehicle like the Gladiator that was developed from the ground up for all-terrain adventuring.
2023 Jeep Gladiator vs. 2023 Toyota Tacoma: Interior Features
When you compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma in terms of cab space and interior features, the Jeep pickup holds several advantages over its Toyota rival. Comparing the roomy four-door Gladiator truck with a comparable Tacoma Double Cab model shows how spacious and versatile the Jeep model is.
For instance, the Jeep Gladiator has more front and rear headroom than the Toyota truck and far more second-row legroom. The Gladiator provides 38.3 inches of rear legroom compared to just 32.6 inches in the Tacoma Double Cab.
The advanced Jeep Gladiator interior houses a Uconnect 4 infotainment system paired with a standard 7-inch or the available Uconnect 4C NAV 8.4-inch touch screen. Similarly, the 2023 Tacoma features a 7-inch display or an available 8-inch touch screen.
The Toyota model's interior is home to the Toyota Safety Sense P suite of driver assistance features, including a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Automatic High Beams.
Opt for a Jeep Gladiator equipped with the latest safety and security technology to gain the confidence of advanced features like:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Full Stop
- Full-Speed Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
- Rear Cross Path Detection
Explore the spacious and tech-packed interior of the new Jeep midsize pickup truck at Bice Motors today.
Compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma Trim Levels
Start shopping for a 2023 Jeep Gladiator, and you'll have the following trim levels to choose from:
- Gladiator Sport
- Gladiator Sport S
- Gladiator Willys
- Gladiator Freedom
- Gladiator Rubicon
- Gladiator Mojave
- Gladiator High Altitude
The 2023 Tacoma is available in SR, SR5, Trail Special Edition, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro trims.
While the Tacoma remains popular among midsize truck shoppers, the Jeep Gladiator outperforms its Toyota competition in several key areas, making it a desirable option.
If you've decided that the Jeep Gladiator is the pickup truck for you, then why wait any longer to upgrade? See our new Jeep specials now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Jeep Gladiator a better off-road vehicle than the Toyota Tacoma?
The Jeep Gladiator is considered by many to be a better off-road vehicle than the Toyota Tacoma. Every new Gladiator pickup truck is equipped with a Jeep 4x4 system, while the Toyota model comes standard with rear-wheel drive, making it less ideal for off-roading. The only Trail Rated truck is the Jeep Gladiator, so why settle for a pickup with less off-road capabilities?
Which can pull more weight, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator or the Toyota Tacoma?
The 2023 Jeep Gladiator can pull more weight than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. When properly equipped, the new Jeep model offers a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. That compares favorably to the Toyota truck, which features a maximum tow rating of 6,800 pounds when properly equipped. Schedule a Jeep Gladiator test drive to experience its power and capability for yourself.
Which has a more powerful engine, the Gladiator or the Tacoma?
The 2023 Gladiator has a more powerful engine than the 2023 Tacoma. A 285-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine powers the Gladiator pickup truck, while the Tacoma model starts with a 159-horsepower 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder powertrain. If you're looking to maximize on-road and off-road capability, choose the more powerful midsize pickup, the Jeep Gladiator.
1EPA estimated 16 city mpg with 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed manual. Actual mileage may vary. EPA estimated 23 hwy mpg with 3.6-liter V-6 and six-speed manual. Actual mileage may vary.
2Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See fueleconomy.gov.
3When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
4Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.