I was set on replacing my Jeep with a 2024 Gladiator Mojave X later this year, especially if they start offering discounts like they did for the 2023 models. But the new Ford Ranger Raptor has caught my attention, and it’s priced much lower than the Mojave X. Have I completely lost my mind? I need your thoughts!
If you’re thinking of going for bigger tires like 35s, just know it might not be as straightforward as you’d hope. Jeeps tend to handle tire upgrades better than the Ranger.
Bryce said:
If you’re thinking of going for bigger tires like 35s, just know it might not be as straightforward as you’d hope. Jeeps tend to handle tire upgrades better than the Ranger.
The Raptor runs 37s on 4.10s just fine thanks to its power. It’s not like the 3.6 Jeep engines. As long as you’ve got the torque, 35s won’t be an issue for the Raptor.
@Kim
As a tech, I’d warn you about Ford’s EcoBoost engines. They’re notorious for oil pump issues and valve damage after 70k miles. Plus, they’ve got plastic oil pans that can crack on trails. Just something to think about.
@Fraser
This is gold! Thanks for the detailed insight. It’s definitely something I’ll keep in mind.
If you’re after a small, iconic truck, the Ranger Raptor isn’t a bad pick. But the Gladiator is arguably better looking, in my opinion. Is it worth paying $20k more for that? Maybe not, but looks can be a big factor.
@Drew
Totally agree—the Gladiator does win in the looks department!
If you don’t plan on heavily modifying the truck, go with the Ranger Raptor. Jeeps, however, are incredibly customizable, and it’s hard to walk away from that.
Penn said:
If you don’t plan on heavily modifying the truck, go with the Ranger Raptor. Jeeps, however, are incredibly customizable, and it’s hard to walk away from that.
That’s a great point. The ability to customize is one of the things I love most about Jeeps.
Think about how much you’re willing to stick with the stock Ranger Raptor versus modifying it. The Gladiator is easier to modify and DIY. The Raptor’s suspension is designed around stock specs, so any lift or mods could compromise its performance unless you go for pricey, high-quality components. For basic mods like a winch, the Gladiator is the easier choice.
Ford’s quality control post-COVID has been rough, and dealerships are still charging markups on popular models like the Maverick and likely the Raptor too. If you don’t need to remove the top and doors like on a Gladiator, there are better midsized truck options out there.
@Bryce
This is really helpful to know—thank you for the insight!
I saw a ton of Ranger Raptors while working in Australia, and they looked amazing. Didn’t get to check out the inside, though. They’re definitely cooler than Tacomas but maybe just shy of Gladiators in terms of looks.
Not sure why the comparison is with the luxe Mojave X, but the Ranger Raptor has better towing capacity, a front locker, and is way better for daily driving or Baja-style runs. The Gladiator shines in hardcore off-road situations. They’re very different trucks, so it depends on your needs.
@Shiloh
You make some excellent points. Thanks!
I traded my Ranger Tremor for a diesel Gladiator Rubicon, and I don’t regret it. The Ranger Raptor is great but lacks a diesel option in the US, which is a big downside for me. If they offered the turbo diesel drivetrain available overseas, I’d be all over it.
If there aren’t any markups, the Ranger Raptor is a great deal at $55k for 400hp. Gladiators like the Mojave cost more, have less power, and get worse fuel economy. I switched from a Mojave to a Wrangler 392, and the power difference is night and day.
Gladiators come with two unbeatable features:
- Manual transmission.
- Convertible top.
Everything else is just a detail. 
Sage said:
Gladiators come with two unbeatable features:
- Manual transmission.
- Convertible top.
Everything else is just a detail.
So much wisdom in this comment.
Don’t bank on massive discounts for 2024 Gladiators. Jeep is scaling back production, so there won’t be an oversupply like there was in 2023. If you’re looking for a fast, capable small truck for things like mulch runs, the Ranger Raptor might be the better choice.