Detroit, Jan 09,
2005
Jeep® brand vehicles are known for being able to conquer terrain that
competitors fear and for a heritage steeped in utility. The Jeep Gladiator
concept vehicle rides over boundaries and limits in addition to the terrain
and obstacles.
The Gladiator is a lifestyle pickup with all of the rugged functionality of
the famed Jeep Wrangler. It is a super utility truck that features an
open-air canvas roof, removable doors and fold-down windshield so driver and
passengers can get in touch with the outdoors, and an expandable
pickup-truck bed and clever storage compartments to offer truly useful cargo
capacity.
“Jeep Gladiator is an authentic statement of Jeep brand heritage that
explores what shape and features a modern Jeep pickup might have,” said
Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Chrysler Group Design.
Jeep enthusiasts will likely recognize the Gladiator name from the 1962
fullsize pickup truck model. Other Jeep elements on today’s Gladiator that
blend style and function include the seven-slot grille, an open-air
passenger compartment, a Command Trac® part-time 4x4 system, front- and
rear-locking differentials, a front winch and full skid plates.
While the heritage rings true, Gladiator is also a thoroughly modern pickup,
intelligently engineered for an active lifestyle. The Jeep brand has always
embodied function in a right-sized vehicle, and the Gladiator continues that
theme by offering more utility and storage than would be expected in a
vehicle scaled for maneuverability and ease of driving.
There is a driver-side cabin-storage access panel as well as a lockable
storage panel in front of the rear wheel. The 4-foot-wide bed space is
expandable with storage that can extend inside the cabin when more length is
needed. The bed can be transformed easily from its standard length of 5 foot,
8 inches (1,725 mm) to 6 foot, 8 inches (2,026 mm) with the midgate expanded,
and ultimately to 8 foot, 11 inches (2,723 mm) with the midgate expanded and
tailgate down.
Gladiator is powered by the modern and efficient 2.8-liter, 4-cylinder
common-rail turbo diesel engine that provides 295 lb-ft of torque and 163 hp.
It delivers ample power to all four wheels through a 6-speed manual
transmission and a traditional part-time transfer case.
The front and rear suspension are multi-link designs for a smooth ride over
all surfaces with plenty of suspension travel for capable off roading.
Coilover shocks are used at all four corners for superb control. The rear
incorporates dual, concentric springs for a comfortable ride while offering
a 1,500-pound payload. Key off-roading specifications include a ground
clearance of 13.7 inches (348 mm), break-over angle of 23.2 degrees and an
approach/departure angle of 47.6 /38.0 degrees, respectively. Tires in the
front and rear are 34 inches in diameter (265/75R18) mounted on 18x8 inch
wheels.
On the interior, Gladiator is thoroughly contemporary with a utility theme.
The color palate includes Armour Green with Dark Slate Gray accents. The
seats are weatherproof and the interior is designed for hose-out ease of
care. Not surprisingly, Gladiator features all the necessary technology for
finding the way there and back including GPS, a navigation system and a
communications system.
“This vehicle blends classic cues with contemporary functionality and
innovation,” said Creed. “The timeless silhouette – even the bedside-mounted
spare of classic Jeep pickups– is merged with a modern chassis, a turbo
diesel powertrain and a flexible, expandable truck bed.”
Specifications:
Weight (estimated): 4,150 lbs. (1,882 kg)
Length: 205 inches (5,207 mm)
Wheelbase: 138.4 inches (3,515mm)
Front Overhang: 28.3 inches (718mm)
Rear Overhang: 38.3 inches (974 mm)
Width: 76.6 inches (1,947 mm)
Height: 74.8 inches (1,900 mm)
Track, Frt/Rr: 65.6/66.2 inches (1,667/1,681 mm)
Engine: 2.8-liter 1-4 turbo diesel
Transfer Case: Command Trac, NVG231
Transmission: Manual 6-speed
Axle Gear Ratio: 3:73:1
Front Suspension: 4-link with coilover shocks
Rear Suspension: 5-link with coilover shocks
Ground Clearance – 13.7 inches (348 mm)
Break-Over Angle - 23.2 degrees
Approach/Depart Angle – 47.6/38.0 degrees
Tire Size: 265/75R18
Wheel Size: 18x8 inches
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