Dive into our Jeep Gladiator Mojave reviews to discover if it truly reigns as the king of the desert with its impressive off-road capabilities and features.

The Jeep Gladiator Mojave is a purpose-built off-road machine, designed to handle the most challenging terrain with confidence. While 75% of off-road enthusiasts prioritize rock crawling capabilities, the Mojave is specifically tailored for high-speed desert adventures. Its unique suspension, gearing, and Off-Road Plus mode make it a formidable contender for those who crave the thrill of dune running and high-speed desert trails.

Desert-Rated Domination

When you see that “Desert Rated” badge, you know the Jeep Gladiator Mojave means business. This mid-size pickup is crafted to dominate the dunes and tackle high-speed trails with style and grace. Let’s dive into the heart of what makes this vehicle a standout in the off-road community.

Fox Suspension: A Desert-Ready Upgrade

At the core of the Mojave’s off-road capabilities is its impressive suspension system. Equipped with Fox internal-bypass shocks and remote reservoirs, this setup is designed to absorb the harshest bumps that the desert can throw at you. But wait—there’s more! The hydraulic jounce bump stops are like the cherry on top, ensuring that you stay composed even when the suspension bottoms out. Imagine gliding over whoops without spilling your coffee; that’s the kind of ride we’re talking about!

One enthusiastic tester even remarked, “You can hear the fluid traveling inside the jounce stops’ internal matrix. The sound is not unlike that of stepping on a saturated sponge.” If that doesn’t make you want to hit the dunes, what will?

Command-Trac Transfer Case: Gearing for Speed

Now, let’s talk gears. The Mojave features a unique Command-Trac transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range ratio, perfectly tailored for those high-speed excursions. Unlike the Rubicon, which is more about low-range gearing for rock crawling, the Mojave allows you to maintain momentum on those sandy trails. One off-road enthusiast noted, “The Mojave’s gearing allows it to maintain momentum on desert trails, making it ideal for tackling dunes and open terrain.” So, if you’re looking to fly over the sand, this is your ride.

Off-Road Plus Mode: Tailored for Desert Performance

To really amp up the Mojave’s desert capabilities, Jeep has thrown in an Off-Road Plus mode. Activating this feature sharpens throttle response, optimizes shift points, and reduces electronic stability control intervention. This means you get a more aggressive driving experience that makes navigating tricky terrain feel like a breeze. A reviewer shared, “Off-Road Plus mode gives the Mojave a more aggressive feel, making it more responsive and fun to drive in challenging terrain.” Who doesn’t want that?

Rock Crawling Capability: Jeep Gladiator Mojave Reviews

While the Jeep Gladiator Mojave is primarily a desert warrior, it still has some tricks up its sleeve for rock crawling. With its Dana 44 axles and impressive ground clearance, this pickup can tackle more technical trails than you might expect.

Rock-Crawling Strengths

Don’t let its desert focus fool you; the Mojave is no slouch when it comes to navigating rocky terrain. “Despite lacking a front locker, the Mojave still boasts impressive ground clearance and a robust crawl ratio,” said one off-road enthusiast. The suspension upgrades and sturdy build mean you can tackle obstacles that would leave other trucks in the dust.

Limitations: The Lack of a Front Locker

However, there’s a catch. The absence of a front locker can limit the Mojave’s ability to conquer the most challenging rock trails. A tester explained, “While the Mojave is capable of tackling most rock trails, the lack of a front locker may limit its ability to handle the most demanding obstacles.” So, if you’re a hardcore rock crawler, you might want to consider the Rubicon for those extreme scenarios.

The Mojave vs- the Rubicon: A Head-to-Head Comparison

When comparing the Jeep Gladiator Mojave to its sibling, the Rubicon, it’s clear that each model has its strengths tailored to specific off-road environments. Let’s break it down.

Mojave: The Desert Runner

If you’re all about high-speed desert adventures, the Mojave is your champion. With its specialized suspension, higher gearing, and Off-Road Plus mode, this truck is built for blasting through sandy washes and conquering dunes. You’ll be grinning from ear to ear as you navigate those thrilling trails.

2020 Jeep Gladiator Mojave

Rubicon: The Rock Crawler

On the flip side, the Rubicon reigns supreme when it comes to rock crawling. With features like a front locker, disconnecting front anti-roll bar, and lower crawl ratio, it’s designed to tackle technical obstacles with ease. If you find yourself eyeing the toughest trails, the Rubicon is the way to go.

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between the Mojave and Rubicon boils down to your off-road preferences. If you’re chasing high-speed thrills in the desert, the Mojave is your go-to. But if you’re more about conquering rocky terrains, the Rubicon is your best bet. Consider your driving style and the landscapes you plan to explore to make the best choice for your adventures.

The Mojave’s Performance and Power

Now, let’s pop the hood and see what’s cooking. The Jeep Gladiator Mojave is powered by the well-known 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, cranking out 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. While this engine provides enough oomph for most off-road situations, it might leave you wanting more when stacked against competitors like the Ford Ranger Raptor.

“The Mojave’s 3.6-liter V-6 gets the job done, but you can really feel the difference in power and acceleration when you stack it up against something like the Ranger Raptor,” shared a reviewer. The Raptor’s twin-turbo V-6 offers more low-end grunt, which is crucial for those high-speed off-roading escapades.

On the bright side, the Mojave’s fuel economy is respectable, with an EPA-estimated 18-19 mpg combined. While it may not lead the pack in efficiency, it strikes a decent balance between performance and everyday drivability.

The Mojave’s Interior and Features

Step inside the Jeep Gladiator Mojave, and you’ll find a cabin that feels familiar if you’ve ever been in a Wrangler or Gladiator. The supportive sport seats and intuitive switchgear create a comfortable environment for both off-road and on-road adventures.

One standout feature is the Jeep Adventure Guide—a comprehensive off-road navigation system developed in partnership with Trails Offroad. “This feature is a game-changer,” exclaimed one enthusiast. “It not only provides detailed trail maps but also offers real-time updates on trail conditions and closures, making it an indispensable tool for any desert adventurer.” Talk about a handy companion for your off-road excursions!

You can also deck out the Mojave with various creature comforts, such as a three-piece hardtop, heated seats, and a premium audio system. So, whether you’re navigating rocky trails or cruising down the highway, you can enjoy the ride.

The Mojaves Future: Whats Next?

As the off-road segment continues to evolve, the future of the Jeep Gladiator Mojave remains an exciting topic of discussion. Rumors swirl about potential enhancements, including a more powerful engine option or a special “Mojave X” variant with even more off-road-focused upgrades.

“Jeep has really raised the bar with the Gladiator Mojave,” shared an industry analyst. “But with competitors like the Ford Ranger Raptor and the upcoming Bronco Raptor entering the scene, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Jeep step up its game even further to maintain the Mojave’s edge.” Whether that means refining existing features or introducing something entirely new, one thing is for sure: the Mojave will continue to be a standout choice for those seeking high-speed desert capability.

FAQ

Q: Is the Gladiator Mojave capable of rock crawling?
A: While the Mojave is not as specialized for rock crawling as the Rubicon, it can handle most technical terrain thanks to its strong axles, good ground clearance, and robust crawl ratio. However, the lack of a front locker may limit its ability to tackle the most demanding obstacles.

Q: What are the main differences between the Mojave and the Rubicon?
A: The Mojave is designed for high-speed desert running, while the Rubicon is more focused on rock crawling. The Mojave features a Desert Rated suspension, higher gearing, and Off-Road Plus mode, whereas the Rubicon has a front locker, disconnecting front anti-roll bar, and a lower crawl ratio.

Q: Is the Mojave’s engine powerful enough for off-roading?
A: The Mojave’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 provides adequate power for most off-road situations, but it may feel underpowered compared to some competitors, like the Ford Ranger Raptor.

Conclusion

The Jeep Gladiator Mojave is a formidable off-road machine, especially when it comes to high-speed desert running. With its Desert Rated suspension, specialized gearing, and Off-Road Plus mode, it stands out as a top contender for those seeking thrills on open terrain. If you’re looking for a pickup truck that can handle the dunes and open desert, the Gladiator Mojave is worth a serious look. Visit your local Jeep dealer to test drive one today and experience its desert-conquering capabilities firsthand.