Jeep used to have a reputation for reliability. Enthusiasts harken back to the days of the TJ and the XJ Cherokee, when the brand’s lineup was dominated by its unkillable and nearly omnipresent 4.0-liter straight-six engine. Though Jeep models have never been particularly unreliable, we’ve never quite reached those heights since. However, new initial quality surveys from JD Power indicate that’s changing, especially with regard to the Gladiator, which ranked first in the brand’s survey for the third time running.
The Gladiator Is One High-Quality Truck
The Gladiator has taken the top spot in its midsize pickup segment in the JD Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). The truck leads the segment in an average of seven out of 10 categories, which include driving experience, infotainment (shockingly), and interior. Jeep recently updated the Gladiator and Wrangler with much-improved infotainment systems and new screens, and it’s really showing. The Wrangler, speaking of, also did pretty well. The SUV finished second in its respective SUV category, and the brand overall rose by 13 points in the rankings thanks to its recent successes. Interestingly, other Stellantis brands rose as well, with Dodge claiming 24 points to a 7th overall spot for brand quality, and Chrysler climbing an identical 13 points.
“We’re building momentum and, more importantly, building trust,” said Yuri Rodrigues, senior vice president, quality, Stellantis North America. “These results show that we’re listening to our customers and putting them at the center of every decision we make. We are focused on setting the highest ambitions in quality, and the time is now to execute.”
The Gladiator Ranks Well Because It’s A Great Truck
In the traditional sense, the isn’t the most amazing truck ever. It doesn’t tow like other midsize rivals. It also can’t haul like them, either. With a five-foot bed, the Gladiator also isn’t particularly good at carrying large cargo.
However, Jeep got something right with the Gladiator. It’s got a big interior, which means your friends fit. Its bed size matters less because that’s not why Jeep wants to buy the Gladiator. Jeep wants the weekend thrill-seekers. With an open roof, it’s a pretty easy segment to corner. When your gear fits, your friends fit, and there’s some room in the back for a bike or two, the Gladiator suddenly looks appealing. Of course, it’s also a good Jeep, with great off-road capability right out of the box, unlike some traditional midsize truck rivals.
TopSpeed’s Take
It’s surprising to see Jeep dethrone Toyota and Lexus in this survey. Ordinarily, Jeep doesn’t touch the Japanese pair, with its trucks and SUVs frequently dominating over similar products. The gains for Stellantis are important, however, as the brand faces not only internal turmoil but also continued problems outside of Jeep. Dodge continues to see slow sales, and it’s a very similar story at Chrysler. However, this is a step in the right direction.
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