Midsize pickups are a decision about restraint. You want a truck that fits in a garage and still does truck things, and in North Texas that usually points to two names, the Jeep Gladiator and the Toyota Tacoma.
They approach the job from opposite ends. This post sticks to what each truck is known for and leaves the numbers for you to confirm on the exact trim, since both manufacturers change equipment from year to year.
Quick answer: Choose the Jeep Gladiator if open air driving and serious trail gear matter to you, since it's the midsize pickup that lets you remove the doors and roof. Choose the Toyota Tacoma if you prefer a conventional pickup feel with Toyota's resale history. Drive both and compare the bed and the back seat.
What sets the Jeep Gladiator apart from the Toyota Tacoma?
The Jeep Gladiator is a Wrangler with a bed. That means removable doors and a removable roof, a rugged look and trail focused trims like the Rubicon and Mojave.
The Toyota Tacoma is a more traditional midsize pickup, with a well known name for dependability and a loyal following. Toyota offers it in several trims, including an off road focused one, and a hybrid option on current models.
If open air matters, only one of these trucks does it.
Price tags differ too, and trims move around from year to year. Rather than quote figures that go stale, use the inventory pages and the payment calculator to compare the actual trucks on the lot against what you've seen from Toyota.
You want open air driving, plan weekends on dirt and like a truck with personality.
You want a conventional pickup, care about a long ownership history and prefer a quieter, calmer ride.
How do they compare on bed size and cargo?
Both have beds on the shorter side of the pickup world. The Jeep Gladiator's bed is about five feet, which is fine for gear and coolers but tight for longer loads. The Toyota Tacoma offers more than one bed length depending on cab, so check the version you like.
Measure what you carry. A dirt bike, a deer feeder and a few bags of feed all fit differently from one truck to the next. A tape measure in the glove box is worth more than a spec sheet.
Graham tip: Bring a tape measure and your gear to the test drive. Ten minutes in a parking lot tells you what the bed can and can't do.
Which one is better off road around Graham?
For rough ranch roads, creek crossings and deep mud, the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and Mojave trims are built for it, with locking differentials and trail suspension. The Toyota Tacoma's off road trims are capable too, so test them on the terrain you drive.
Most North Texas ground is less dramatic than a rock trail. For gravel roads and a ranch gate, either truck handles it, and the decision comes back to how you want to feel on pavement.
Dirt isn't the only test. Hail, summer heat and the occasional flooded low water crossing show up in Young County, and a truck that sits high with good tires has an edge on all of them. Look at ground clearance and tire choice on whichever trim you pick.
A tape measure in the glove box is worth more than a spec sheet.
What is daily driving like?
The Toyota Tacoma generally drives like a conventional pickup. The Jeep Gladiator has a Jeep feel, with a taller, more upright seating position and a bit more wind and road noise. Some buyers love that character and others tire of it on the highway.
Rear seat room is limited in both, so if you carry adults in back, sit there yourself.
Think about service. A Jeep Gladiator bought in Graham can be serviced at Holiday CDJR by Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram trained technicians, with a Mopar Express Lane for quick jobs. A Toyota Tacoma means finding the nearest Toyota shop, which for some buyers is a longer drive.
How should you decide?
Make a list of what you do in a normal month and a good month. If open air and trails show up on the good month list, add the Jeep Gladiator to the drive. If the truck is mostly a commuter that tows a little and hauls a little, the Toyota Tacoma deserves a fair test too.
Then check the cost of ownership. Ask the dealer for the first few service costs and look at the warranty. Compare payments with the calculator on the Holiday CDJR site.
Trim, color and roof choices vary. If the Jeep Gladiator you want isn't on the lot, submit a preorder and a sales specialist will follow up.
Order aheadOpen air and style
Can I take the roof off a Toyota Tacoma?
No. The Jeep Gladiator is the midsize pickup with a removable roof and doors.
Is the Jeep Gladiator loud on the highway?
It has more wind and road noise than a conventional pickup. Test it on Highway 380.
Are the doors hard to remove?
It takes tools and patience the first time. The owner's manual explains the steps.
Trail and tow
What are the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and Mojave?
Both are trail oriented trims. The Rubicon suits rock and slow terrain, and the Mojave suits fast desert style driving.
Can the Jeep Gladiator tow?
Yes, within its rating. Check the rating on the exact trim.
Does the Toyota Tacoma tow more?
Compare the ratings for the exact trims. They change by year and by configuration.
Space and daily use
How long is the Jeep Gladiator bed?
It's about five feet. Measure your usual cargo before you decide.
Do adults fit in the back seat?
Space is limited in midsize trucks. Sit in the back of each one.
Is the Jeep Gladiator good for commuting?
Many owners use it that way. Expect a firmer, noisier ride than a conventional truck.
Dealing locally
Does Holiday CDJR sell the Toyota Tacoma?
No. Holiday CDJR sells Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles.
Can I trade in a midsize truck?
Yes. Use the Value Your Trade form and bring it in.
Can I estimate payments online?
Yes. Use the payment calculator.
After the sale
Where can I test drive a Jeep Gladiator in Graham?
At Holiday Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, 1609 US Highway 380 in Graham, Texas 76450.
Who services the Jeep Gladiator in Graham?
The Holiday CDJR service department works on Jeep vehicles.
How do I ask a question before I visit?
Call (940) 532-6403 or use the Contact page.