The 2024 Jeep Gladiator 4WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. No one buys a Gladiator for its fuel efficiency. Gladiator buyers want a unique vehicle that combines open-air Jeep freedom with the utility of a pickup bed and serious off-road capability. They understand that capability comes at a price, and in this case, that price is paid at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Gladiator 4WD at 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the inherent trade-offs in the Gladiator’s design. The city figure suffers due to the vehicle’s weight, boxy aerodynamics, and the demands of stop-and-go driving. The highway number is better, but still reflects that its solid axles and off-road tires create more rolling resistance than a typical pickup or SUV. The eight-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but physics are physics.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Jeep Gladiator 4WD 3.6L V6 to be exactly $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. While $2,300 might seem high compared to other vehicles, Gladiator owners typically factor this cost into their ownership expenses, seeing it not as a detriment, but as part of the cost of enjoying the vehicle’s unique capabilities and image. You can view all Jeep fuel economy data to see how the Gladiator compares within the Jeep lineup.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy for the 2024 Gladiator can vary significantly. Factors such as driving style, tire size, aftermarket modifications (lift kits, heavy bumpers), and terrain all play a role. Owners who frequently engage four-wheel drive, drive aggressively, or carry heavy loads can expect to see fuel economy figures lower than the EPA estimates. Those who drive conservatively on the highway may achieve slightly better results. The Gladiator’s aerodynamics are not very good, meaning that higher speeds will impact fuel economy more dramatically compared to other pickups.

How it compares

The Gladiator’s fuel economy lags behind other midsize trucks. The Toyota Tacoma 4×4 with its V6 engine achieves 18 MPG combined, while the Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 2.7L turbo manages 19 MPG combined. A Ford Ranger 4×4 with the Ecoboost engine does 21 MPG combined. Even the body-on-frame Toyota 4Runner SUV manages 17 MPG combined. These differences matter to some buyers, but those specifically seeking the Gladiator’s combination of open-air driving, off-road prowess, and pickup bed utility are often willing to accept the trade-off in fuel economy. Comparing GLADIATOR MPG across all years reveals a consistent story. The Jeep Gladiator is not chasing fuel-sipping efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Even in a vehicle like the Gladiator, where fuel economy isn’t a primary concern, there are steps you can take to improve efficiency. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Gladiator’s weight and aerodynamics mean that every hard launch or sudden stop consumes extra fuel. Smooth, deliberate driving will make a noticeable difference.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Maintain the recommended tire pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker, or even consider slightly increasing the pressure (within safe limits) to further reduce rolling resistance.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack or bed that create wind resistance. The Gladiator’s already boxy shape isn’t ideal, but reducing even small sources of drag can improve fuel economy, especially at highway speeds.

Plan your trips strategically. Combining errands into a single trip and avoiding peak traffic times can reduce stop-and-go driving, which is particularly detrimental to fuel economy in the Gladiator. Consider the terrain you’ll be driving on too. If you can avoid unnecessary off-road driving, you’ll save fuel.

Be judicious with four-wheel drive. Only engage four-wheel drive when necessary, as it significantly increases fuel consumption. Driving in two-wheel drive on paved roads will maximize your fuel efficiency. Don’t use 4×4 to compensate for snow tires, use snow tires.