Off-Road Titans: Jeep Gladiator Rubicon vs Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison

Introduction: The Reign of the Jeep Gladiator

The Jeep Gladiator continues to dominate discussions in the off-road truck world. Its rugged capability, classic Jeep styling, and modern features have made it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts. But how does it hold up against stiff competition like the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison? In this in-depth comparison, MotorVero dives into performance, customization, and safety to help you make the right choice.

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Gladiator Rubicon vs. Colorado ZR2 Bison: Off-Road Showdown

In a head-to-head clash at Badlands Off Road Park, we put two of the industry's most capable off-road midsize trucks to the test. Both the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon and Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison boast serious off-road credibility, but each brings unique strengths to the table.

• Jeep Gladiator Rubicon: Equipped with front and rear locking differentials, Rock-Trac 4x4 system, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and solid axles. Built to crawl over anything.
• Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison: Comes with Multimatic DSSV dampers, underbody skid plates, and a wider stance. Designed for high-speed trail dominance and rugged endurance.

Our off-road testing revealed that while the Gladiator excels in slow, technical terrains, the ZR2 Bison shines in high-speed desert scenarios. Choosing between them often comes down to the type of terrain you tackle most frequently.

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Customization Spotlight: $10,000 in Mopar Accessories

Customization is where the Jeep Gladiator truly stands apart. With over 200 factory-backed Mopar accessories available, owners can transform their Gladiator to match their lifestyle — whether it's overlanding, rock crawling, or everyday utility.

One build we tested came loaded with over $10,000 in Mopar upgrades, including:

• Heavy-duty rock rails
• Lift kit and off-road suspension enhancements
• LED off-road lighting and steel bumpers
• Custom bed-mounted storage solutions
• All-weather interior protection

These enhancements not only boost performance but significantly elevate the Gladiator’s rugged aesthetic. Whether you buy directly from the dealership or piece it together post-purchase, the flexibility is unmatched.

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Ram 1500 Recall Alert: What You Need to Know

While Jeep and Chevrolet dominate headlines for performance, it’s equally important to stay informed about vehicle safety. Recently, a small batch of 2019 Ram 1500 trucks were recalled due to incorrect spare tire specifications.

The issue lies in mismatched spare tires that may require different air pressures than those listed on the vehicle's label. This discrepancy could lead to unsafe driving conditions in emergencies. Ram has notified affected owners, but if you own a 2019 Ram 1500, it's crucial to verify your VIN with your local dealer or through the NHTSA recall database.

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Key Differences Between the Gladiator and ZR2 Bison

Though both trucks cater to off-road audiences, their engineering philosophies differ:

• Gladiator Rubicon: More modular with removable doors and roof, Jeep’s signature trail-rated DNA, better for rock crawling.
• ZR2 Bison: Heavier-duty armor, better high-speed damping, strong out-of-the-box for desert racing or overland prep.

For Jeep loyalists, the Gladiator feels like a natural extension of the Wrangler experience. For truck purists, the ZR2 Bison offers a unique combination of power and agility.

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Off-Road Capability: Which Truck Handles Tougher Terrain?

Terrain versatility is crucial in choosing an off-road truck. The Gladiator Rubicon, with its crawl ratio and locking front differential, is adept at rock crawling. The ZR2 Bison, on the other hand, offers superior damping technology for trail stability and control.

If you're facing sharp climbs, rock gardens, and uneven surfaces, the Gladiator offers a more confident approach. But if your off-roading style leans toward speed and suspension travel, the ZR2 Bison takes the lead.

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Ownership Costs and Value

While both trucks offer solid resale value, the Gladiator often commands a premium due to its brand prestige and off-road heritage. However, the ZR2 Bison is typically more affordable upfront, with excellent long-term reliability.

Customization costs can drive up the total investment for Gladiator owners, especially with Mopar accessories. That said, these upgrades often boost resale value if maintained properly.

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Interior and Comfort

The Gladiator offers a utilitarian yet comfortable cabin, especially in Rubicon trim. Durable materials and smart storage solutions make it road-trip ready. The ZR2 Bison, while rugged, leans slightly more toward comfort with upgraded seats and quieter interiors.

Both trucks support modern infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but Jeep's Uconnect system is widely praised for its responsiveness and layout.

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Final Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?

If your adventures involve serious rock crawling, modular flexibility, and brand tradition, the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon is a top choice. For those prioritizing high-speed capability, overland durability, and budget-friendly performance, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison is a strong contender.

Ultimately, there’s no wrong decision — only a better fit for your lifestyle and terrain preferences.

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Explore More at MotorVero

MotorVero is your go-to destination for truck reviews, off-road tips, recall alerts, and buying guides. Whether you're looking to upgrade your current ride or planning your next adventure, we’ve got the insights you need.