How to Off-Road in a Jeep Gladiator

Let's discuss why the 2025 Jeep Gladiator isn't just a tough-looking truck but it's genuinely built for the wild. That "Trail Rated" badge? Jeep doesn't just hand those out. They put the Gladiator through serious tests to ensure it can handle what you throw at it. Think of it: you're out on a trail, things get rough, and you need your truck to just grip. That's where Jeep's 4x4 systems kick in, making sure you're getting power where you need it when you need it. And if you're crossing streams or creeks? No problem. They've sealed things up and put the air intake high so you can go through water up to 31.5 inches deep. Need to dodge a big rock or weave through some tight spots? The steering and how they've set up the wheels make it surprisingly nimble. Plus, the suspension lets the wheels move a ton, so they stay on the ground even when things get bumpy, keeping you moving. And if you're in a Rubicon? You've got over 11 inches of ground clearance, meaning you can drive over anything that's not too crazy. The bottom line is that they've built this thing to handle real-world off-road challenges, not just look the part.

If you're serious about off-roading your Gladiator, here's the lowdown on key features. First, you've got those Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials—basically, they keep your wheels turning together, front and back, so you don't get stuck when things get dicey. Plus, you can even lock the rear in 4HI for higher-speed stuff. Then there's the sway bar disconnect, which lets your front wheels move independently, giving you way more flex over rocks and bumps. And if you're rocking a Rubicon, you're getting the Rock-Trac 4x4 system, which is seriously hardcore. It's got that super-low 4:1 transfer case and an 84:1 crawl ratio, meaning you've got crazy control when you're climbing or going over obstacles. And to top it all off, steel rock rails protect the cab and bed from getting banged up when crawling over rocks. They've packed this thing with features to ensure you're not just getting through the trail, you're conquering it.

So picture this: you're out on the trail and can't quite see what's coming up ahead. That's where the TrailCam off-road camera comes in handy—it shows you what's right in front of you on the screen so you can spot those tricky obstacles before you're on top of them. Then, if you need to switch things up, there's the Off-Road+ button. Hit that, and it tweaks the throttle, shifting, and traction control, so you're dialed in whether you're blasting through sand or crawling over rocks. Underneath, you've got those beefy Dana 44 solid axles, which are seriously tough and can take a beating. And, of course, you've got tow hooks front and back, so you can pull your buddies (or maybe even some strangers) out of a sticky situation. Plus, they've slapped on steel skid plates to protect the critical bits underneath, like the fuel tank and transfer case, because, let's face it, rocks happen.

The Jeep Gladiator offers a selection of 4x4 systems tailored to varying levels of off-road engagement. The Command-Trac 4x4 system provides a part-time 4x4 capability, featuring a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, enabling adequate traction in challenging conditions. The Rock-Trac 4x4 system, standard on the Rubicon trim, represents a heavy-duty part-time 4x4 configuration characterized by a 4:1 low-range transfer case and an enhanced crawl ratio, facilitating precise control during demanding off-road maneuvers. Additionally, the Selec-Trac 4x4 system offers a full-time 4x4 option that allows the vehicle to engage automatically and disengage 4WD as needed for optimal traction. These systems are engineered to provide robust off-road performance, catering to diverse driving requirements.

The Gladiator Mojave is the one you want if you're picturing yourself tearing across the desert, not inching over rocks. It's got this Desert Rated badge, which means Jeep's put it through its paces in the sand. Think of it as the Rubicon's speedy cousin. With these fancy FOX shocks, they've given it a unique suspension, so it can soak up bumps and jumps at high speeds without throwing you around too much. The frame's been beefed up, and it's got better brakes for when you need to stop in a hurry. You'll be rolling on 33-inch all-terrain tires, and the seats are designed to hold you in place when taking those fast turns. Plus, there's an Off-Road+ mode that tweaks the truck for sand driving. And, of course, they've added skid plates to protect the underside. The Mojave is built to go fast in the sand, giving you a different off-road experience than the Rubicon.

Whether you're drawn to the rock-crawling prowess of the Rubicon or the high-speed desert capabilities of the Mojave, the Jeep Gladiator offers an unparalleled off-road experience. At Village Jeep, we understand the passion for adventure, and we're here to help you find the perfect Gladiator to match your off-road aspirations. With our diverse inventory and expert team, we'll guide you through the features and capabilities of each trim, ensuring you make an informed decision. Ready to start your adventure? Please fill out the form below and let us help you get behind the wheel of your dream Gladiator today.