There’s a new American double cab bakkie in town, and it has some novel tricks up its sleeve including the ability to go topless and doorless.
The Jeep Gladiator is a 4x4 double cab based on the Wrangler SUV and, like its cousin, it has a removable roof and doors, making it the country’s only convertible bakkie. Its removable three-piece hard top has quick-release latches that enable fast removal and installation. Alternatively, customers can experience open-air driving with an included soft top roof that can be partially or fully opened, and a windscreen that folds down.
In terms of interior stowage it has some novel solutions including lockable storage nooks under the rear seats. The rear backrests can be folded flat and the seat cushions flipped up to cater for different passenger/cargo needs. The V6 has a satisfyingly linear power delivery and sounds good, especially with the optional sports exhaust system fitted — one of many accessories available. It is a rather thirsty beast with an official rating of 12.4The chunky 255/75 tyres whoosh vocally on tar and there’s also some wind noise due to the bakkie’s chunky shape.