Jeep Gladiator pickup may reach India in April-June quarter of 2027
The American pickup truck could be assembled in India from imported CKD kits, though the company has not announced a launch date.
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As the popularity of premium SUVs grows in India, the powerful American pickup truck Jeep Gladiator is likely to enter the Indian market. The truck could arrive in the second quarter of 2027, that is, between April and June. However, the company has not yet announced a launch date.
Stellantis has announced a plan to bring 12 new models to India by 2030. The company has also said it will invest about Rs 4,000 crore. Against this backdrop, all eyes are on the Gladiator's possible entry.
The truck could be assembled in India using CKD kits imported from Toledo in the US state of Ohio. It is based on the platform of the fourth-generation Jeep Wrangler. Its sturdy body-on-frame construction makes it useful for hauling cargo as well as for off-roading. In India, it could compete with pickup trucks such as the Toyota Hilux.
In international markets, the Gladiator gets a 3.6-litre petrol V6 engine. The engine produces 285 hp of power and 353 Nm of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The company discontinued the diesel engine option in 2023, so India is likely to get the petrol engine. However, this has not been officially confirmed.
According to US EPA figures, the truck's fuel efficiency is about 8 km per litre. Buyers may therefore have to be prepared for higher fuel costs along with a powerful engine.
The truck is 5,539 mm long and 1,875 mm wide, with a wheelbase of 3,487 mm. Ground clearance is 254 to 295 mm, and it can wade through water up to 800 mm deep. With an approach angle of 44.7 degrees and various 4x4 drive systems, it could prove effective on rocky roads and difficult tracks. Some variants also get an electronic locking rear differential and a front sway-bar disconnect system.
Features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 7-inch TFT display, 12-way power-adjustable front seats and four USB Type-C ports. However, some features such as ventilated seats and wireless phone charging are not available.
The launch date, price and variants for India have not yet been officially announced. The price could depend on the method of import and assembly, taxes and the variant. An official announcement will therefore have to be awaited, and the Indian price will be crucial to the pickup truck's success.
