The 2020 Jeep Gladiator won’t be available with the 2.0-liter turbocharged powertrain that is offered in the closely related Wrangler SUV.

Fiat Chrysler’s optional four-cylinder powertrain in the Wrangler consists of a 2.0-liter turbo four, a 48-volt mild hybrid system and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain makes 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, giving the consumer power and torque figures similar to the base 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with better fuel economy.

So why won’t this attractive powertrain be offered in the Gladiator? The Drive asked Jeep the same question, and while the automaker refrained from speaking ill of its four-cylinder, it pointed out that the base 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine “can handle the temperatures seen while towing.”

While some consumers will be let down at the lack of four-cylinder offering in the Gladiator, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is the simpler and safer option for truck buyers. Thanks to the V6, the Gladiator boasts a best-in-class tow capacity of 7,650 lbs, trouncing the Toyota Tacoma (6,500 lbs) and the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon (7,000 lbs). Even the new Ford Ranger with its 7,500 lb tow capacity is beaten by the Jeep.

SEE ALSO: 2020 Jeep Gladiator is the Wrangler Pickup You’ve Always Wanted

In addition to the base 308 hp 3.6-liter V6 engine, the Jeep Gladiator will also be offered with FCA’s 260 hp 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 from 2020 onward. The 3.6-liter can be paired with an eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission, while the 3.0-liter diesel is offered with the eight-speed automatic only.

FCA has yet to say if it will ever pair its 48-volt eTorque system with the 3.6-liter V6 in the Jeep Gladiator. The eTorque system is standard on all 2019 Ram 1500 pickups with the Pentastar engine and can briefly add 12 hp and 90 lb-ft of torque when the truck needs it. It also works as a generator for the stop-start system.

The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is expected to go on sale in mid-2019. Pricing has yet to be announced.

[Source: The Drive]

From AutoGuide.com