24 MPG combined will either surprise or confirm what you already suspected about the 2021 Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel 4WD. This figure places this mid-size pickup between fuel-efficient vehicles and gas-guzzlers, a compromise many buyers are willing to make for the Gladiator’s open-air experience, truck utility, and diesel torque.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Gladiator EcoDiesel at 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the engine’s strengths and weaknesses. Stop-and-go driving highlights the Gladiator’s weight, requiring more fuel to accelerate. However, once cruising, the 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel’s abundant torque allows it to run at low RPMs, contributing to that respectable highway number. The eight-speed automatic transmission is important here, keeping the engine in its sweet spot efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that you’ll spend $2,300 per year fueling the 2021 Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also uses the national average for fuel prices when the EPA testing was conducted. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of fuel in your area. This $2,300 figure provides a benchmark to compare against other vehicles and helps estimate the long-term cost of ownership. Buyers considering the extra cost for the diesel engine option need to factor this, along with other cost considerations like maintenance, lifespan, and resale value.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test, but real-world MPG often varies. Gladiator EcoDiesel owners report numbers close to the EPA estimates. Owners sometimes see lower figures if they frequently tow, off-road, or drive aggressively. Factors like tire size, aftermarket accessories (bumpers, winches), and roof racks can negatively impact fuel economy. Payload also plays a major role. A fully loaded Gladiator bed will certainly decrease MPG.

How it compares

The Gladiator EcoDiesel is in an interesting spot when compared to its competitors. The Toyota Tacoma, with its 3.5L V6, achieves around 20 MPG combined in 4×4 configuration. The diesel Gladiator is a more efficient choice, assuming similar driving conditions. The Chevrolet Colorado with the 2.8L Duramax diesel engine offers comparable fuel economy, hovering around 23-25 MPG combined. A Ford Ranger, equipped with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine, delivers about 22 MPG combined with 4×4, slightly less than the Gladiator EcoDiesel. The Ford Ranger Raptor isn’t sold in the US, so it’s not a relevant alternative for those looking for extreme off-road performance. For drivers drawn to the brand, consumers searching for all Jeep fuel economy data will see that this diesel engine is among the most fuel-efficient options for the brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration makes a noticeable difference in the Gladiator EcoDiesel. The engine produces ample torque at low RPMs, so there’s no need to press hard on the accelerator for everyday driving. Gradually building speed allows the engine to stay in its most efficient range, minimizing fuel consumption.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regular checks and proper inflation, as indicated on the tire placard, are critical. Make sure to rotate your tires regularly to reduce rolling resistance variability.

Minimize idling. Diesel engines, compared to gasoline engines, still burn fuel while idling. Try to avoid idling for extended periods. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine.

Reduce your payload. The more weight you carry, the harder the engine has to work, especially when starting or accelerating. Only carry what you need. This is a simple step that can add up to noticeable fuel savings over time. This is especially true for Gladiator models given the relatively low GLADIATOR MPG across all years.

Consider the diesel fuel additive. The EcoDiesel engine benefits from quality diesel fuel additives. These additives enhance fuel combustion, decrease deposits, and increase overall engine efficiency, thereby reducing fuel consumption. It’s a fairly inexpensive way to improve fuel efficiency, and will help the lifespan of the diesel engine.