The 2026 Jeep Gladiator lineup welcomes a heritage-focused addition that connects today's off-road capability with military roots from eight decades ago. The Willys '41 package arrives as part of a broader repositioning that makes the Gladiator more accessible to Canadian truck buyers while maintaining the open-air freedom and Trail Rated capability that define the nameplate.
This special edition draws inspiration from the original Willys MB military vehicles that established Jeep's reputation for rugged dependability. For drivers in New Brunswick who value both functional capability and distinctive styling, the Willys '41 represents a bridge between proven truck fundamentals and design elements that stand out from typical midsize pickups.
Heritage-Inspired Design Elements
The Willys '41 package transforms the Gladiator's appearance through military-themed styling cues. Olive Green paint serves as the foundation, paired with black 17-inch wheels and all-terrain tires that emphasize off-road intent. Body-colour fender flares and a matching hardtop create visual continuity, while "Willys" hood decals reference the original military contractor.
Inside, the cabin features black cloth seats with Olive Green accent stitching that ties to the exterior colour. The approach balances modern comfort features with aesthetic nods to the 1941 military origins. Functional elements like rubberized floor mats and durable trim materials support the package's outdoor-focused positioning.
Standard Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission
The 2026 Gladiator lineup adopts an eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment across all trims, replacing the previous six-speed manual option. This transmission pairs with the 3.6 L Pentastar V-6 engine, rated at 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
The eight-speed automatic provides closer gear ratios for improved acceleration response and highway efficiency. For towing and hauling scenarios common in Fredericton and surrounding areas, the additional gears help maintain optimal engine rpm under load. The transmission includes electronic range select, allowing drivers to manually limit gear selection when navigating steep grades or slippery surfaces.
Capability Specifications
The Gladiator maintains strong capability numbers for the midsize truck segment:
- Maximum towing capacity: 3,492 kg (7,700 lbs)
- Maximum payload capacity: 782 kg (1,725 lbs)
- Ground clearance: 277 mm (10.9 in) on Willys models
- Approach angle: 43.6 degrees
- Departure angle: 26 degrees
- Breakover angle: 20.3 degrees
These figures position the Gladiator competitively for both work applications and recreational towing. The five-foot cargo box includes integrated tie-down points and a spray-in bedliner on most trims. The removable roof panels and fold-down windshield maintain the open-air versatility that distinguishes the Gladiator from conventional pickups.
2026 Lineup and Pricing Repositioning
Jeep reduced Canadian pricing across the 2026 Gladiator range by up to $11,400 compared to 2025 models. The lineup includes:
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Trim
|
MSRP
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Sport S
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$49,995
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Willys
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$54,995
|
|
Mojave
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$64,995
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|
Mojave X
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$76,290
|
|
Rubicon
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$64,995
|
|
Rubicon X
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$76,290
|
The Willys '41 package applies to the Willys trim level, which includes Dana 44 front and rear axles, Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials, and disconnecting front sway bar. These features support serious off-road use while maintaining daily driving comfort.
Off-Road Systems and Winter Capability
The Gladiator's Command-Trac 4x4 system on Sport S and Willys trims provides part-time four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case. Rubicon and Mojave models upgrade to Rock-Trac and full-time systems respectively, each calibrated for different terrain priorities.
For New Brunswick winters, the Gladiator's ground clearance and four-wheel-drive systems provide confidence on snow-covered rural roads and unplowed trails. The all-terrain tires on Willys models deliver improved traction compared to highway-focused rubber, though dedicated winter tires remain the optimal choice for extended cold-weather use.
The Selec-Speed Control system on Rubicon trims maintains steady speeds between 1–8 km/h during technical off-road sections, allowing drivers to focus on steering and line selection rather than throttle modulation. This feature proves equally useful when navigating icy boat ramps or snow-covered driveways.
Technology and Convenience Features
The 2026 Gladiator includes Uconnect infotainment with available 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation. The system integrates off-road pages that display pitch and roll angles, altitude, and compass heading—useful data for trail navigation or monitoring vehicle position during recovery situations.
Available features across the lineup include:
- Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Path Detection
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Remote start system
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Alpine premium audio system
The removable hardtop and soft top options both include rear sliding window for improved airflow. Hardtop models feature removable Freedom panels over the front seats, allowing open-air driving without full roof removal.
Practical Considerations for Truck Buyers
The Gladiator's 3,567 mm (140.5 in) wheelbase creates a 1,524 mm (60 in) cargo box—shorter than full-size trucks but adequate for most recreational and light commercial applications. The bed accommodates standard 4x8 sheet materials when positioned diagonally, and the available bed extender increases versatility for longer cargo.
Fuel economy figures reflect the V-6 engine and four-wheel-drive configuration. Combined ratings typically range from 12–14 L/100 km depending on trim level and driving conditions. The 81.5 L fuel tank provides reasonable range between fill-ups during highway travel.
The Gladiator's body-on-frame construction and solid rear axle deliver durability advantages for heavy use and modifications, though ride quality on paved roads feels firmer than unibody crossovers. This represents a deliberate trade-off favouring capability over isolation.
Willys '41 in Context
The Willys '41 package positions itself as a styling-focused option rather than a capability upgrade. Buyers seeking maximum off-road performance should consider the Rubicon trim with its electronic lockers, 4:1 low-range transfer case, and 33-inch tires. Those prioritizing high-speed desert running will find the Mojave's Fox shocks and strengthened frame more suitable.
The Willys '41 appeals to enthusiasts who value the visual connection to Jeep heritage and want distinctive appearance without stepping up to premium trim pricing. The Olive Green colour and period-correct graphics create a cohesive aesthetic that references the brand's military origins while maintaining modern functionality.
Explore the 2026 Gladiator at Summit Dodge
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator lineup, including the heritage-focused Willys '41 package, is available to order now at Summit Dodge in Fredericton. The team can walk you through trim differences, capability specifications, and how the Gladiator's open-air design and Trail Rated systems fit your driving needs in New Brunswick.
Visit Summit Dodge to see the Gladiator's removable roof panels, cargo box features, and off-road hardware up close. Whether you're considering the value-positioned Sport S or the trail-ready Rubicon, experiencing the Gladiator's unique combination of truck utility and Jeep capability provides clarity that specifications alone cannot deliver.
