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When Jeep reentered the pickup truck game for the 2020 model year, there was quite a bit of excitement. The new Jeep Gladiator is the first truck Jeep has made in years, and it really represents everything the brand is about. As a mid-size truck, it might not be the most popular. But it does bring a lot to the table, especially in terms of trims. One of which is the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave, and it is confusingly good.

The 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave has a standard V6 engine

Although the Mojave trim will not give you access to the EcoDiesel engine offered to other trucks, it does come standard with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. This engine has been around for years and has been featured in many FCA products. In this application, it makes 285 horsepower and 260 pound-foot of torque. 

Another perk of using the 3.6-liter V6 is the fact that you can get a 2023 Gladiator Mojave with a six-speed manual transmission. And that has become a bit of a rarity in the mid-size truck segment. While most will probably opt for the available automatic transmission, it is nice to see a brand still offer a standard gearbox. 

The Gladiator Mojave is more comfortable than a Wrangler Rubicon

Although the Wrangler Rubicon trim is a Jeep icon, it does mean sacrificing some everyday comfort. Because the Gladiator has a longer wheelbase, it can feel better with on-road use. And let’s be honest, most new Jeeps probably spend more time on the highway than they do on the trail. 

A 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave shows off its capability in a desert as a mid-size truck.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave | Jeep

Because of its increased length, you won’t have the same break-over angle and turning radius as a Jeep Wrangler. At the same time, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Mojave pickup should not have trouble tackling various off-road situations. 

The 2023 Gladiator Mojave has an upgraded suspension

The Jeep Gladiator Mojave comes with 2.5-inch FOX shocks. These aid this mid-size truck with its goal of becoming a desert runner. These shocks are specific to the Mojave model, and Jeep has even given them orange accents to help them stand out. 

A Jeep Gladiator with its top down drives in the desert.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave | Jeep

According to Motor1, the upgraded suspension does make the ride of this mid-size truck feel more comfortable. Plus, you get the increased capability when you decide to take the road less traveled. And that is not something that every 2023 Gladiator offers. 

Is the Jeep Gladiator worth it?

Although the 2023 Jeep Gladiator might have a high price, it is worth it if you want a mid-size truck by Jeep. The Gladiator Mojave is extremely capable, and during development, Jeep really put it to the test. The Mojave went through serious trials in desert conditions to prove it was worthy of its name. 

In terms of cost, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave starts at $50,645. Compared to other mid-size pickups, that’s a little steep. But there’s not really a lot out there that offers everything a new Jeep truck does. Especially the Jeep Gladiator Mojave, with its aggressive styling and capable attitude. 

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