Key Facts of the Gladiator 4xe Cancellation
Changes in Jeep’s Strategy
The past year brought significant changes for the Jeep brand, and this process continues. The then-CEO of Jeep, Antonio Filosa, announced plans to launch the Gladiator 4xe in 2025. Today, Filosa has moved to the position of CEO of Stellantis, and the hybrid pickup project has been canceled.
Technical Features of the Canceled Model
The model was initially supposed to join the lineup of the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler 4xe, which quickly became some of the most popular plug-in hybrids in America. The Gladiator 4xe was set to borrow heavily from the Wrangler, namely: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery, and an electric motor. This was supposed to provide the pickup with a combined power output of 375 hp and an electric-only range of approximately 20 miles.
Official Confirmation and Comments
The automaker informed suppliers about the immediate cancellation of the project. A brand representative stated:
Jeep has already begun reallocating funds to ensure the long-term growth of the Gladiator model and in the near future will introduce additional features, customization, and new powertrain options demanded by customers.
This is a rather vague statement; however, in the letter to suppliers, the cancellation is explained by the evolution of customer preferences regarding powertrain types. The company added that
it is reviewing its product strategy and will no longer include an electrified version of the Gladiator in the Jeep model lineup.
Context and Reasons for the Decision
This decision is a disappointment, especially considering the success of the Wrangler 4xe model. However, the tax incentive for eco-friendly vehicles ends this month, which likely also influenced the decision. Gladiator sales have also not been very successful: last year, only 42,125 units were sold in the US, which is a drop of more than 50% compared to the 89,712 sold in 2021. However, in the first half of this year, sales increased by 8% to 25,400 units.
New Color for 2026 Models
On the other hand, Jeep announced the return of a purple color called Reign. This shade will be available for the 2026 model year Wrangler and Gladiator.
The company is already accepting orders and stated that the color was brought back due to “popular demand.” It first appeared on the 2018 Wrangler and is aimed at buyers who are “passionate about the color purple.”
The cancellation of the Gladiator 4xe occurs against the backdrop of a general trend among automakers to reassess their electric and hybrid plans. Although demand for eco-friendly vehicles continues to grow, specific market conditions, such as the expiration of government incentives, can sharply change the economic viability of such projects. For Jeep, this could also be an opportunity to focus on improving traditional engines or developing fully electric versions that might better meet future requirements. The return of the popular Reign color, meanwhile, indicates that the brand continues to seek ways to enhance the appeal of its existing models to support sales.