Enthusiasts tickled our imagination with concept images of the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Hercules. This truck would take the off-road performance to another level. The base for upgrades would be the famous Rubicon package. But, the Gladiator would push the performance to the limits.
There is always a room for upgrades. However, it seems that the new pickup truck could introduce some other versions before the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Hercules is being out. For example, the truck can carry over the 4xe plug-in hybrid system from its closest relative, Wrangler SUV. Then, there is a V8 engine with 400 hp as a high-end option. This powertrain might be the key upgrade in the Hercules package compared to the Rubicon.
All in all, the Gladiator Hercules is just a render that caused a lot of interest. So, it won’t be a surprise if the company adopts an idea of its fans. Nevertheless, there won’t be too many buyers opting for this high-end and expensive model. Truckers are mostly looking for the best value and highest towing capacity.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Hercules Specs
The truck was already heavily criticized for the turbodiesel engine. The company introduced the mid-size model with a powertrain of the full-size Ram 1500 diesel. It delivers 260 hp and 440 lb-ft, which is too much for this class. A petrol V6 is something fans expected from such a vehicle. But now, the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Hercules is causing more discussions. Which of those two configurations are going to be used for the 4×4 package and how the performance is going to be lifted to the new level?
Well, the answer could be simple. A V8 with 390 hp is a solution. We saw this engine serving power to the Wrangler SUV. So, why wouldn’t the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Hercules use the configuration to storm into the truck world? It sounds simple, but there are a lot of factors. First, engineers need to tune the entire system. Then, a V8 is destroying gas mileage. Towing capacity is not a priority here, but the performance. All in all, the Hercules package would be a huge waste of resources for the experiment that can’t pay out.
Other Interesting Concepts
When a V8 engine debuted on the Wrangler, experts tried to find the connection with the Gladiator pickup. The Hercules concept served as the perfect match. But, it is very hard to happen. On the other hand, Jeep has a lot more things to offer to truckers. For example, the idea of 4xe plug-in hybrid is very interesting. Also, this system has a long-term potential, unlike the performance edition with high fuel consumption. Well, we can say the same for the Ram TRX, but bosses still gave a green light to this monster truck with 700 horsepower under the hood.
Also, Jeep is after a small truck that will compete in the subcompact segment. Ford and Hyundai are already exploring the market with Maverick and Santa Cruz. Ram 700 might be an option for this class.