Safety of Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator Has Improved
Jeep has enhanced the safety performance of its Gladiator and Wrangler models. Both models have received subtle but important changes to the frame structure. Thanks to these updates, the Wrangler no longer rolls over during certain crash tests, which had been a serious issue for the past several years.
A Long-Standing Rollover Problem
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that Jeep has finally addressed a “long-standing problem” with the Wrangler. This problem dates back to 2019 and involved the vehicle rolling over after a small overlap crash test on the driver’s side.
After the issue was first identified, Jeep made structural changes to fix it. However, they proved ineffective, as the 2022 Wrangler also tipped onto its side after a similar test.
Even partial rollovers are dangerous because they increase the likelihood that an occupant could be fully or partially ejected from the vehicle. This is especially relevant for the Wrangler, which has a removable roof and doors and lacks side curtain airbags.
Successful Changes for New Models
Today, the situation has changed. The Institute reported that the 2026 Wrangler remained upright during the latest test. The improved results are explained by changes to the frame, and this update also applies to the 2026 Gladiator model.
Thanks to these modifications, the models received an acceptable rating in the small overlap test. This is a noticeable improvement compared to their previous “marginal” rating.
Protection and Residual Risks
IIHS also noted that the 2026 Wrangler “provides robust protection overall,” but demonstrated a high risk of injury to the right leg and foot of the front passenger during the passenger-side test.
The difference in behavior between the two generations of vehicles is striking. The 2022 Wrangler, upon hitting the barrier at 40 mph, almost immediately began to lift into the air and then tipped onto its side. In contrast, the 2026 Wrangler hits the barrier and is pushed sideways in a fairly controlled manner. The rear wheels lift off the ground, but the vehicle doesn’t even come close to rolling over.
These design changes are an important step for Jeep, especially considering the Wrangler’s popularity and its off-road image. Improving safety without losing the model’s characteristic features, such as the removable roof, has always been a technical challenge. The engineers’ success demonstrates that safety can be integrated even into vehicles with unique architecture. However, as the tests have shown, the work is not yet finished, and the protection of right-side passengers requires further attention. This story also serves as a reminder of the importance of independent crash tests, which encourage manufacturers to continuously improve their products throughout a model’s entire lifecycle.