Jeep has introduced a retro-inspired aesthetic to its Gladiator model with the new Whitecap package, available for the model year. This package, mirroring a similar release for the Wrangler, offers a distinctive visual update to several Gladiator trim levels.
The Whitecap package includes bright white accents applied to the roof, grille and hood of the vehicle. A white side stripe, featuring the inscription “1941,” is also incorporated, paying homage to the first year of production for the original Willys MB, the vehicle that served as a precursor to the modern Jeep. This design element aims to evoke the heritage of the brand’s earliest production vehicles.
The package is offered on the Sahara, Rubicon, Rubicon X, Mojave, and Mojave X trims, providing a broad range of options for buyers interested in the vintage-inspired look. The addition of the Whitecap package is remarkably affordable, adding only $495 to the vehicle’s price. This makes it a relatively accessible option for those seeking a cosmetic upgrade.
The pricing structure varies depending on the trim level. The Sahara Whitecap starts at $50,680, while the higher-end Rubicon X and Mojave X trims with the package are priced at $63,775. The package’s affordability is further highlighted by the fact that many of the included extras are already standard on the Sahara trim, minimizing the additional cost for those starting with that base model.
Beyond the aesthetic changes, the Whitecap edition retains all the functional capabilities of the standard Gladiator. This includes a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds and a maximum payload of 1,720 pounds. The Gladiator’s signature feature – its open-air design with removable roof and doors – remains intact. All Whitecap models are equipped with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
The introduction of the Whitecap package follows Jeep’s recent release of a similar package for the Wrangler in December. This indicates a broader strategy by Jeep to capitalize on the popularity of retro-themed designs. The company has been actively releasing special edition models, with twelve special-edition Wranglers released this year alone, demonstrating a commitment to offering diverse options to its customer base.
The Whitecap package is expected to become available at dealerships this spring. The relatively low cost of the package, combined with the Gladiator’s inherent capabilities, positions it as an attractive option for buyers seeking a blend of style and functionality. The design choices, while primarily aesthetic, tap into a sense of nostalgia and brand heritage that may appeal to a wide range of Jeep enthusiasts.
The Gladiator, often described as the Wrangler’s pickup truck sibling, continues to offer a unique proposition in the automotive market as the only open-air pickup truck currently available. The Whitecap package doesn’t alter this core characteristic, but rather enhances the vehicle’s visual appeal with a nod to its historical roots.
While the Whitecap package focuses on cosmetic enhancements, the underlying mechanical components and performance characteristics of the Gladiator remain unchanged. This means buyers can enjoy the same level of off-road capability and practicality that the Gladiator is known for, now with a distinctive retro-inspired appearance.
The availability of the Whitecap package across multiple trim levels allows customers to choose the configuration that best suits their needs and budget. Whether opting for the more affordable Sahara or the more fully equipped Rubicon X and Mojave X, the Whitecap package provides a consistent aesthetic upgrade.
