Comparing the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X and Jeep Gladiator Mojave X
When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, the Nissan Frontier and Jeep Gladiator stand out as two of the most unique options on the market. While they share some similarities, such as their V6 powertrains and competition in the same segment, each offers a distinct driving experience that caters to different needs and preferences.
The Nissan Frontier is often seen as the value leader in its class. It provides a practical and logical choice for those who want a reliable truck that can handle both daily commuting and light off-road adventures. On the other hand, the Jeep Gladiator is built for fun and adventure, appealing to drivers who prioritize an emotional connection with their vehicle. This makes the Gladiator more of a lifestyle choice rather than just a functional one.
Both models represent the old-school idea of what a midsize pickup once was, while still competing against the newer, turbocharged offerings from Ford, Toyota, and GM. When driven, both the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X and the Jeep Gladiator Mojave X prove to be the most extreme versions of their respective models, capable of handling off-road challenges while still being suitable for daily use.
Features of the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X
The base MSRP for the Nissan Frontier is $32,050, while the Pro-4X model costs $41,770. One of the standout features of the Frontier is the King Cab configuration, which allows for two small passengers to sit behind the front seats. This setup also provides a great storage area, as the rear seats fold away. The King Cab also comes with a longer 6-foot bed as standard, which is a rarity in today’s market.
The Pro-4X model comes equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque through a 9-speed automatic transmission. It can tow up to 7,150 lbs and has a maximum payload of 1,620 lbs. Rear-wheel drive is standard, though 4WD is available for those who need it. Inside, the Pro-4X includes an 8 or 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Nissan Safety Shield 360, along with Zero Gravity front seats.
Underneath, the Pro-4X features an electrically locking rear differential, off-road biased Bilstein shocks, skid plates, and aggressive 31.6-inch all-terrain tires. These upgrades do come at a cost, as they reduce the towing and payload capacities compared to the base model.
Driving Experience of the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X
Each time I’ve driven the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X, whether on or off-road, I have been pleasantly surprised. While it may not excel in any one area, it performs exceptionally well in most. The truck handles like a small truck should—sure-footed with great cornering ability and decent on-road comfort. Off-road, it can be seriously aggressive, with excellent crawl characteristics. However, it isn’t the best at articulation, and the suspension is somewhat basic compared to other trucks in its class.
The interior is comfortable for the driver and front passenger, thanks to the unique foam used in the seats. Unfortunately, the back seats are cramped, and the seating position may be uncomfortable for some. The hard plastics on the upper door panel and the relatively small 9-inch screen are also notable drawbacks.
The 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X is EPA-rated at 16 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. In terms of safety, it received “Good” ratings for the original and updated moderate overlap front crash tests but only an “Acceptable” rating for the updated side crash test. The NHTSA gave the Frontier Crew Cab an overall four-star safety rating, with four stars for frontal crash, five stars for side crash, and three stars for rollover.
Features of the Jeep Gladiator Mojave X
The base MSRP for the Jeep Gladiator is $38,695, while the Mojave X model costs $61,100. One of the unique selling points of the Gladiator is its convertible top, standard 4WD, and solid front axle. Unlike some might assume, the Gladiator is not simply a Wrangler with a bed added—it has a rear section of the frame related to the previous-generation Ram 1500, giving it excellent load capability.
The Mojave X comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Towing capacity maxes out at 7,700 lbs, and the maximum payload is 1,725 lbs. Inside, you get a 12.3-inch touchscreen display with Uconnect 5 NAV system, removable doors, a collapsible front windshield, and a 1-inch front suspension lift.
The Mojave X is designed for challenging dunes and high-speed trail running. It also has an upgraded suspension, armor, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. Despite these features, the towing and payload capacity drop significantly due to the weight of the upgrades.
Driving Experience of the Jeep Gladiator Mojave X
Jeep Gladiators are not for everyone. They are louder, especially with the soft top, and have a tendency to handle primitively. However, they can be a total laugh when simply driving to work. They provide as much swagger as a Wrangler but in a much more usable package. The Mojave X is a bit higher in the nose, giving the driver a feeling of elevation and readiness for anything.
Off-road, the Gladiator Mojave X is almost unstoppable when desert running. While it may not be as powerful as some competitors, the V6 engine is well-matched to the gearing. It crawls beautifully and is especially happy when pushed over fast bumps, soft sand, and hard-packed dirt trails.
The seats are comfortable throughout, and the back seat space is among the highest in this class. The horizontal screen location and size make it easy to use, and the sound quality is much better than before. The interior is soft-touch with high-quality components, though some may find the unusual door sizes and interior compromises unappealing.
The 2024 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X with the 3.6L V6 engine gets an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The NHTSA gave it a four-star rating for front crash testing and a three-star rating for rollover resistance. The IIHS gave it a “Good” rating for roof strength, a “Marginal” rating for the small overlap front test, and a “Poor” rating for its standard front crash prevention system and headlight performance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an affordable daily truck that’s easy to live with, the Nissan Frontier Pro-4X is the smart pick. It’s affordable, comfortable, and plenty capable for light off-roading or weekend projects. If you want a stretched Wrangler with a bed, the Jeep Gladiator is unlike anything else in the segment. It’s more expensive, less refined, but a lot more characterful—especially if you crave off-road fun and open-air driving. Both trucks are solid choices, but they serve very different personalities.
