Jeep Gladiator Vs. Toyota Tacoma: Full Overview & Comparison
Our comparison of the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma is here to help midsize pickup truck shoppers decide between two popular and well-equipped options. This matchup of two of today's more rugged and adventurous midsize pickups can have only one winner, so stick around to find out why the 2025 Jeep Gladiator takes top honors.
After reading our Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma comparison, you are welcome to contact Jones Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Wickenburg and our knowledgeable sales associates to learn more about the Gladiator pickup and what makes it rise above its Toyota challenger.
Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma Specs
Standout 2025 Jeep Gladiator specs help this distinctive open-air truck take the lead from the start. Every version of this Jeep pickup comes equipped with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 powertrain that generates more horsepower and torque than the standard gas powertrain in the 2025 Tacoma.
The 2025 Gladiator truck's 285-horsepower V-6 engine develops 260 pound-feet of torque and is paired with a Jeep 4x4 system. The standard 4WD setup is a Command-Trac part-time 4x4 system, which helps provide this Jeep model with Trail Rated capability for extensive off-road adventuring. It also comes with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma starts with two-wheel drive (2WD), unlike the 4x4-only Jeep Gladiator. It's also down on power, as the Tacoma only gets 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque out of the standard tuning of its smaller 2.4-liter turbo engine.
2025 Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity
Comparing the 2025 Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD Xtra Cab vs. the 2025 Jeep Gladiator Sport 4x4, you'll find that the Jeep model holds two significant advantages – in these configurations, the Jeep pickup tops the Toyota Tacoma in towing and payload capacity. In fact, when you look at their entire lineups, the Jeep SUV beats out the Toyota model for these key truck specs.
Thanks to its Jeep 4x4 system, 285-horsepower V-6, and strong frame, the 2025 Gladiator truck can tow 6,000 pounds1 in its base configuration. Add the Max Tow Package to your entry-level model, and you'll get a best-in-class 7,700 pounds1,2 of towing strength. Meanwhile, the base SR Xtra Cab Tacoma models can only manage up to 3,500 pounds3 of towing potential, no matter if you choose RWD or 4WD. Even at its best, the Tacoma tops out at a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.3
Towing isn't the only class-leading spec you can get with the midsize Jeep Gladiator. Step up to the second-tier Sport S model, and you can unlock a best-in-class maximum payload capacity of 1,725 pounds.2,4 The Tacoma does its best to keep pace here
| Engine: | 3.6L V-6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission: | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain: | 4WD |
| Horsepower: | 285 |
| Torque: | 260 lb-ft |
| Length: | 218 in |
| Body Width: | 73.8 in |
| Height: | 75 in |
| Wheelbase: | 137.3 in |
| Max. Towing Capacity: | 7,700 lbs1 |
| EPA-Est. AWD MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb): | 17 / 22 / 196 |
| Key Features: |
|
| Engine: | 2.4L turbo I-4 |
|---|---|
| Transmission: | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain: | RWD or 4WD |
| Horsepower: | 228 |
| Torque: | 243 lb-ft |
| Length: | 213 in |
| Width: | 76.9 in |
| Height: | 74 in |
| Wheelbase: | 131.9 in |
| Max. Towing Capacity: | 3,500 pounds3 |
| EPA-Est. AWD MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb): | 19 / 24 / 217 |
| Key Features: |
|
Compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma MPG Ratings
The Toyota Tacoma SR 4WD Xtra Cab, equipped with an automatic transmission, returns up to an EPA-estimated 19/24 MPG (City/Highway).7 The more powerful and capable Jeep Gladiator MPG ratings aren't far behind. The 2025 Gladiator Sport 4x4 earns up to an EPA-estimated 17/22 MPG (City/Highway).6
2025 Toyota Tacoma vs. Jeep Gladiator Size
Compare the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma dimensions to find a midsize truck that's better sized for your needs. The Gladiator is the bigger truck of the two. Sticking with our comparison of the entry-level models, the Jeep pickup measures 218 inches long with a 137.3-inch wheelbase. The Tacoma SR Xtra Cab is a little smaller at 213 inches long with a 131.9-inch wheelbase.
The Gladiator pickup's larger exterior leads to a more spacious interior for up to five passengers. Its generous 42.8 inches of second-row headroom and 38.3 inches of second-row legroom make the Tacoma feel cramped. For starters, the Toyota Truck's standard Xtra Cab only comes with one row, so we'll have to look at the upgraded Double Cab for second-row measurements. Even then, an SR model with the Double Cab only offers 33.7 inches of legroom and 38.4 inches of headroom in the rear row.
Both models seat up to five occupants, but your crew is sure to find more comfort in the larger, more inviting Jeep Gladiator.
Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma Bed Dimensions
How much cargo can you haul behind the cab of the Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma? That's a question we often hear, so here are the details on the cargo-carrying capabilities of both models.
The 2025 Jeep Gladiator bed dimensions are as follows:
- Pickup Box Cargo Length: 60.3 inches
- Pickup Box Minimum Width: 44.8 inches
- Pickup Box Maximum Width: 56.8 inches
- Pickup Box Depth: 33.9 inches
- Pickup Box Cargo Volume: 35.5 cubic feet
As we mentioned above, if you want a two-row Tacoma to match the five-seat capacity of the Gladiator, you'll need the Double Cab. This configuration of the entry-level SR model comes with a 5-foot bed with the following dimensions:
- Inside Bed Length: 60.3 inches
- Inside Bed Width: 44.7 inches
- Inside Bed Width Between Wheel Wells: 53 inches
- Inside Bed Depth: 20.2 inches
Toyota engineers haven't posted the total cargo volume of this bed, but given its narrower width and shallower depth, it's safe to assume you won't have as many cubic feet with the Tacoma as you'd get with the Gladiator.
Midsize Pickup Verdict: The 2025 Jeep Gladiator Takes the Crown
The new Jeep Gladiator for sale holds several advantages over the Toyota Tacoma. Jones CDJR Wickenburg welcomes you to visit us or your local Jeep dealer for a closer look at the latest Gladiator pickups, including the model's various trim levels and configurations.
Our Jeep dealer in Wickenburg, AZ, provides an extensive pickup truck inventory, Jeep financing offers, and professional Jeep service.
View all new Jeep vehicles for sale online now, plan your visit, and schedule a test drive to get behind the wheel of a new Gladiator pickup truck soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is better: a Toyota Tacoma or a Jeep Gladiator?
Compare the 2025 Jeep Gladiator vs. Toyota Tacoma in their base forms, and you'll discover that the Gladiator is the bigger and more powerful pickup. Its 285-horsepower V-6 engine overpowers the 2025 Toyota Tacoma truck and its standard 228-horsepower four-cylinder engine. The Gladiator is the only truck in this comparison that offers the freedom of a soft top and removable doors.
How do the Jeep Gladiator and Toyota Tacoma compare in terms of off-road capability?
While both models provide off-road capability, the new 2025 Jeep Gladiator is the only pickup truck in this comparison that offers Trail Rated status. Its standard Jeep 4x4 system, high ground clearance, powerful V-6 engine, and an array of off-road-focused equipment make the Gladiator the more capable truck out of the box for all-terrain exploration.
Which truck provides better fuel efficiency: the Jeep Gladiator or Toyota Tacoma?
The Toyota Tacoma provides better fuel efficiency but only by a slim margin. The fuel economy advantage you might get from a Tacoma truck is quickly offset by its lack of power and torque compared to the potent new Jeep Gladiator. The Gladiator pickup gets a 285-horsepower V-6 engine, while the new Tacoma starts with a four-cylinder engine making only 228 horsepower.
1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2Class based on JD Power midsize pickup segmentation. Based on the latest available competitive information. When properly equipped. Max payload/towing ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. Contact dealer for details.
3Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
4When properly equipped. Max payload ratings shown for base configuration. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload weights. Contact dealer for details.
5Max payload varies based on accessories and vehicle configuration.
6EPA-estimated 17 city/22 hwy/19 comb MPG with 3.6-liter V-6 and eight-speed automatic transmission. Actual mileage may vary.
7Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle's condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.