The Jeep Gladiator has been awarded a 3-star rating by ANCAP based on testing of the Wrangler last year which was criticised for “structural issues”.
The all-new Jeep Gladiator has been handed a three-star ANCAP rating today with ANCAP saying it provides “similar structural crash performance to the previously-tested Wrangler”, adding it was “below that expected by consumers”.
With most new dual-cab utes launching with active safety features to rival passenger vehicles, and five-stars pretty much the norm, the Gladiator’s three-star rating will be a blow to the US car maker.
And ANCAP was scathing. “The structural issues we saw with the originally-tested Wrangler also apply to the Gladiator including A-pillar and cross-facia beam failure, footwell intrusion, high seatbelt loads and excessive pedal movement. These remain an increased risk for occupants,” said ANCAP Director – Communications & Advocacy, Rhianne Robson.
“Consumers have come to expect a high level of safety regardless of price-point and market segment.”
“Safety should remain a priority in all vehicle purchases, and this is no different for a vehicle of this type – particularly at this price-point,” Mrs Robson added.
According to ANCAP, because the Gladiator shares the same core structural underpinnings as the Wrangler, engine configuration and restrain package it also suffers from poor adult and pedestrian protection, “with scores of 60% and 49% in respective areas”. Similarly, the collision avoidance equipment offered on Gladiator (the same as Wrangler) was only given a score of 51%. “The AEB system fitted to the Gladiator however does not offer the ability to detect or respond to potential crashes with pedestrians and cyclists. Active lane support functionality is also not available,” ANCAP said.
Question: Will this three-star rating make you think twice about buying a Gladiator?
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