What kind of an off-road enthusiast are you? Do you like to do things in your own way and, therefore, prefer classic off-road hardware, or do you maybe prefer modern tech features that do most things for you? We presume that you are probably in the first group because off-road enthusiasts are usually pretty conservative. Can this 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T comparison change your mind? Here, we are about to compare the old-school approach with a modern, all-electric vision of off-roading.
Before we start, keep in mind that we are comparing two completely different types of vehicles. They may feature pickup body styles, but that’s the only thing in common. One uses internal-combustion engines, other is all electric. One shows its rugged nature all around, the other one tends to be very sophisticated. Finally, let’s not forget the huge price gap between the two models, which is the reason we are about to compare just one aspect of the two trucks – their off-road potential.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T: Before We Start
So, before we start with off-road comparison, let’s check some of the most important features of each model and see what makes it special when compared t other models.
With Mojave, things are pretty clear. This is one of the two best off-roaders in Gladiator’s lineup. Unlike the Rubicon, which is primarily a rock crawler, the Mojave is more of a desert runner but still comes with an impressive amount of off-road upgrades. It comes exclusively with a V6 gasoline engine and it is characterized by a pretty decent amount of standard equipment.
The Rivian R1T is a completely different breed. This is one of the rare electric pickups that actually entered serial production and we are so impressed with its performance. It is available in a version that includes four electric motors, with a total output of a whooping 835 horsepower, though the most basic variants come with just two. In any case, as we mentioned, this model looks way more sophisticated, not just from the outside. Its interior also impresses, with things like materials, build quality and super-fancy tech features, including a 16-inch screen on the center stack.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T: Off-Road Performance
So, we are finally starting the 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T comparison, from the most important aspect. Namely, our question here is can the all-electric Rivian R1T compete with one of the best off-road pickups on the market?
The first thing to talk about is the drivetrain. The Gladiator Mojave features a classic automatic transmission, along with low gearing, as well as a locking rear differential. It doesn’t have the front locker like the Rubicon but features an additional inch of ground clearance. On the other hand, the R1T doesn’t have any traditional off-road hardware. It rather relies on electronics, while the fact that there is one electric motor on each wheel clearly says that lockers are not needed here.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T: Dimensions and Suspension
When it comes to dimensions, we won’t bother you with the exact numbers. The only thing you should know is that the two pickups are very similar in terms of size and proportions. Things are also similar when it comes to measurements that are important for off-roading. The Gladiator Mojave features 11.9 inches of ground clearance, which is impressive. However, the R1T goes way beyond impressive, thanks to the adjustable air suspension. It can raise this pickup all way up to magnificent 15 inches from the ground. Jeep features fantastic 44.7 degrees of approach angle, while the departure angle is decent for a truck at 25.5 degrees. The break over angle sits at 20.9 degrees.
The R1T’s 35.5 degrees of the approach angle aren’t as impressive but this pickup is actually much better with departure and breakover angles, which are good for about 30 and 26.4 degrees, respectively.
Now let’s get to the suspension setup. The Rivian R1T features a fully independent air suspension, which is adjustable and can increase ground clearance significantly. That way better solution for on-road comfort compared to Gladiator’s solid axles. Jeep’s pickup may not be very smooth on the asphalt, but its solid axles ensure excellent off-road articulation. Simply, the components are amazing: 2.5-inch internal bypass Fox shocks that have remote reservoirs up front and piggyback reservoirs in the rear. As we are talking about a genuine desert runner, it’s not a surprise that there are also hydraulic jounce bumpers at the front, for better impact absorption on demanding terrains.
As for the tires, the Gladiator Mojave features 33-inch Falken Wildpeak tires, wrapped around 17-inch wheels. The Rivian R1T, on the other hand, features 34-inch Pirelli Scorpion all-terrain tires, but on much bigger 20-inch wheels.
2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T: Price and Summary
As you can see, both trucks offer a high level of off-road capability, and both can do a lot of things. The only question here is whether you prefer an old-school way off-roading, or you would rather rely on electronics and also enjoy a comfortable on-road ride. Actually, there is one more question, and that is how much you are willing to pay. The base Rivian R1T costs around 75.000 dollars, but you will have to pay way more to get a version with four electric motors and use the whole off-road potential of the truck. On the other hand, the Mojave costs around 50.000 with all the off-road features we mentioned in this article.
So, 2023 Jeep Gladiator Mojave vs. 2024 Rivian R1T? We would say it’s a tie, so it’s all about you and your preferences.
