Earlier this month, Jeep unveiled the updated 2026 Wrangler, and now the company has followed up by officially showcasing the refreshed 2026 Gladiator. The latest version of Jeep’s midsize pickup arrives with a new special-edition model and a short list of subtle upgrades that refine the truck without significantly altering its character.
The most eye-catching addition to the lineup is the Gladiator Willys ’41, a special edition that pays homage to the Kaiser Jeep M715 military truck that debuted in 1967. Jeep refers to it as a “buzz model,” and its styling makes the military inspiration immediately clear. The Willys ’41 comes equipped with rugged steel bumpers, distinctive 17-inch wheels finished in Olive Drab, and a hood borrowed from the off-road-focused Mojave trim. Unique graphics, black exterior accents, a protective grille guard, and chunky mud-terrain tires further differentiate it from the rest of the range. Inside the cabin, buyers will find tan upholstery accented with Mantis Green bolsters, continuing the retro military theme. This special-edition Gladiator starts at $47,840 before the $1,995 destination charge. Jeep is already accepting orders, and CEO Bob Broderdorf called the model both “timeless and trail-ready,” emphasizing its heritage-driven appeal.
Beyond the Willys ’41, the 2026 Gladiator receives only a few updates. One of the more notable changes is the adoption of the new door hinges that recently debuted on the redesigned Wrangler. Jeep hasn’t gone into deep technical detail, but the hinges are said to make door removal noticeably easier—an important feature for owners who enjoy open-air driving. The color palette has also expanded. In addition to the earlier-announced shade called Reign, Jeep is introducing a fresh color option known as Goldilocks. Meanwhile, the Gladiator Sport S trim now offers newly available all-terrain tires, giving entry-level buyers a bit more off-road capability right from the factory.
Returning for the 2026 model year is the Dark Sky Appearance Package, offered again on the Sport S. This package includes body-color fender flares, a performance-style hood, and glossy black accents, giving the Gladiator a sportier and more polished overall look.
Under the hood, the pickup remains unchanged mechanically, continuing to rely on the proven 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. The engine produces 285 horsepower and 352 Nm of torque, and it is paired exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive remains standard equipment, staying true to Jeep’s off-road DNA. This familiar powertrain setup allows the 2026 Gladiator to tow up to 3,493 kilograms while achieving fuel economy estimates of 17 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg combined.