Will the TRX or the Gladiator Work Best for Your Off-Road Adventures?

Here at Orange Coast Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat, we have plenty of new and used trucks for sale, with options ranging from light-duty midsize models to full-size heavy-duty beasts that can tackle the toughest of jobs. But trucks aren’t all about work; some of them are perfect for weekend getaways in the great outdoors. If you love zipping around in the open desert or traveling to rocky OHV trails around Southern California, then you’ll be like a kid in a candy store browsing our selection of off-road-ready models.

Today, we’re going to take a look at two very different options that have one important thing in common: they’re tough enough to handle all kinds of rough terrain. The Ram 1500 TRX is large and in charge, packed with plenty of horses under the hood. The Jeep Gladiator is a midsize offering that’s both rugged and highly versatile. Both have plenty to offer an adventurous driver, but which one is right for you depends on everything from your budget and priorities to your style. Let’s take a closer look at what each truck brings to the table.

The Raw Power of the TRX

The Ram 1500 pickup has been around for a while, but the TRX version didn’t hit the scene until the 2021 model year. This means that even the oldest models on our used lot come loaded with modern features and the latest technology. The 2021 TRX has a massive 12-inch touchscreen controlling an infotainment system that boasts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, built-in navigation, and SiriusXM. Instead of having just one feature fill the screen, you can divide it and have multiple functions open at once. The cabin is comfortable and well-insulated against outside noise, so you’ll be able to hear your companions or your music while you drive.

Of course, with an off-road truck, what really matters is capability and performance, which the TRX is happy to deliver. It’s powered by a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (aka the Hellcat engine) that provides a whopping 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. That translates to plenty of speed and a towing capacity of up to 8,100 lbs with a maximum payload of 1,310 lbs, so you can bring along plenty of gear. These stats have held steady from the 2021 model year up through the 2023 model year, so buying a used model doesn’t mean settling for less power.

The Classic Off-Roading of the Gladiator

The Gladiator isn’t trying to overwhelm you with an extra wide stance or a bulky look; it essentially looks like Jeep’s iconic Wrangler with a pickup bed added onto the back. But that smaller size makes it more nimble on tight trails and gives it better fuel economy. For even less pain at the pump, you can opt for a diesel engine that provides more torque and better fuel economy. With the standard V6 engine, the 2021 Gladiator gets 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the diesel powertrain delivers 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. While that’s small potatoes compared to the TRX, it’s plenty for joyriding through OHV trails or over sand dunes. When properly equipped, the Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 lbs and carry up to 1,700 lbs of payload.

Beyond the basic figures, the Gladiator offers some unique features that make Jeep stand out from the crowd. Like the Wrangler, the Gladiator’s doors, roof, and windshield can all be removed. This means that you can have a comfortable, covered truck for cruising down the highway, convert to a fully open-air vehicle that allows you to feel the rush of fresh air in the great outdoors, or mix and match to have something in-between that perfectly suits your needs.

Interior Comfort

For the last several years, Ram has taken interior comfort in the pickup truck segment to new heights, and those lush features are certainly present in the TRX. The layout is inviting and intuitive, the materials look rich, and the specialized suspension system makes for a smooth ride, even over rocky terrain. The Gladiator isn’t going out of its way to provide a sense of luxury, but it’s still plenty comfortable, and the interior has several different nooks and crannies where you can store your smartphone and other personal items to keep them organized and within easy reach.

Available Trims and Special Editions

The TRX has some special editions to choose from, like the 2021 Launch Edition or the 2022 Sandblast Edition and Ignition Edition. There are also packages available that can add extra features, but it doesn’t really have trim levels per se since the TRX itself is an off-road version of the Ram 1500 rather than its own model. As of the 2023 model year, there’s only ever been one TRX powertrain. This is good news for buyers who get overwhelmed with decision fatigue, but it may be a drawback for drivers who like to have different options to choose from.

On the other hand, the Gladiator has several trim levels available. The Sport is an affordable option that comes with the basics, the Willys pays tribute to Jeep’s storied history, the Mojave is specifically designed for driving over sand, the Rubicon prioritizes power and utility on rough trails, and the High Altitude is loaded with luxury features. The Gladiator is also available with either an automatic or manual transmission, so you can get that extra level of control if you prefer a stick shift. You can also choose between a removable soft or hard top. If you’re looking for more options and chances to customize your truck, the Gladiator is definitely worth considering.

Cost and Value

The TRX is bigger with a more powerful engine and a lush interior, so it makes sense that it costs significantly more than the Gladiator. When you buy a pre-owned model, you can still get a great deal, but if you’re on a tight budget, the Gladiator is the more affordable option by far. Since the Jeep comes in so many different trims, you can save even more money by opting for a more basic version like the Sport. Of course, whether you choose the Gladiator or TRX, you’ll be getting a durable truck that’s built for the long haul, so you won’t have to worry about getting the funds together to replace it for a good, long while.

So, Which One Wins?

Comparing the nimble Gladiator to the massive TRX is a bit of an apples-and-oranges situation, so there’s not really an objective winner. If you’re looking for maximum power, then the TRX should be at the top of your list. If you like to visit smaller campsites where space is at a premium, then the Gladiator will suit you better. Either model excels at tackling everything from rock crawling to cruising over sand to handling muddy trails.

Whether you’ve already decided which model you want or still have more questions, come down to Orange Coast Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat today and let us help you get behind the wheel of your dream truck. Our friendly sales staff can give you all the information you need about the specific models on our lot and get you set up with a test drive so you can really get a feel for how these trucks handle. Our finance department can help you find a payment plan that fits your budget, and our service department is here to provide everything from routine maintenance to repairs and replacement parts. You’ll soon discover why Southern Californians trust us for all of their automotive needs!