When shopping midsize pickup trucks, you have a lot to choose from. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator and 2026 Honda Ridgeline are both good options. Let’s examine the features of both to see how they compare.
The Gladiator comes in seven trims, ranging from the budget-conscious Sport model to the fully-equipped Mojave X. The Ridgeline comes in six configurations, from the affordable Sport to the high-end Black Edition Two Tone. We’ll find most of what these vehicles have to offer in their respective Sport configurations, so let’s look at the standard features of the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport vs. the 2026 Honda Ridgeline Sport.
The Gladiator packs a responsive 3.6L V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower, 260 lb-ft torque, 4,500 lb towing capacity, and a payload of 1,025 lbs. As the first-ever trail-rated pickup truck, its 4×4 system with 8-speed automatic transmission gives you responsive performance with intuitive handling and control. With an estimated fuel economy of 17 MPG city / 22 MPG highway, the Gladiator is both fun to drive and practical.
The Ridgeline has a V6 engine under the hood for 280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft torque, and towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. Featuring a 9-speed automatic transmission and an estimated 18 MPG city / 24 MPG highway, the Ridgeline is also a sensible choice.
Overall, both the Gladiator and Ridgeline are more than serviceable performers in most environments.
The Jeep Gladiator has an impressive package of safety features. Standard driver-assistance or safety features include electronic stability control with anti-roll, traction control, brake assist, and cruise control, but it is overall unfussy, putting the driver in control.
The Honda Ridgeline also doesn’t kid around in terms of safety. The Ridgeline boasts a driver assist package that includes a collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation system, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and more.
If you like an inviting interior with modern amenities, you’ll probably like the Gladiator. Open the doors and you’ll discover air conditioning, nice seats, all the usual stuff. But this is a Jeep. Experience the outdoors with a fold down windshield, removable doors and open-air top options. The infotainment system features 8-speaker audio, voice-activated controls, wireless phone connectivity, and everything you need to feel at home behind the wheel.
There is also plenty to like about the Ridgeline’s interior. With tri-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with mountain controls, and remote engine start, the cabin is both comfortable and functional. 7-speaker audio, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Bluetooth® and more make for a sufficient infotainment setup.
Jeep is acclaimed for highly-capable, rugged vehicles that emphasize freedom and a connection with the outdoors. The 2026 Gladiator is no exception. The 2026 Honda Ridgeline is also a solid pick. You can’t go wrong with either, but in our opinion, the Jeep Gladiator can’t be beat.
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