2026 Ford Maverick XL vs 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport
On paper, the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport wins on 94 more hp, 105 more lb-ft torque, 18.2″ longer. The 2026 Ford Maverick XL has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $10,685 price gap, 191 vs 285 hp, 39 vs 19 MPG.
The Maverick XL leads on $10,685 less, 20 MPG better. The Gladiator Sport leads on 94 more hp, 105 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Ford Maverick XL | 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,145 | $38,830 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 hybrid | 3.6L V6 |
| Horsepower | 191 hp | 285 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Transmission | electrically variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 42 | 17 |
| Highway MPG | 35 | 22 |
| Combined MPG | 39 | 19 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.8 gal | 22.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,100/yr | $2,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,674 lbs | 4,662 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 121.1" | 137.3" |
| Length | 199.8" | 218.0" |
| Width | 72.6" | 73.8" |
| Height | 68.8" | 75.0" |
| Truck Specs | ||
| Cab Type | SuperCrew | Crew Cab |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Maverick XL and 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL starts at $28,145, $10,685 less than the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport at $38,830. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $188/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Maverick XL?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $10,685 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick XL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $1,134/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport?
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport is the stronger pick when you need the extra 94 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where 4WD keeps you planted; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Maverick XL or 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport?
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL rates 39 combined MPG, 20 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Maverick XL or 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport?
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport produces 285 hp, 94 more than the 2026 Ford Maverick XL at 191 hp. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport also leads in torque at 260 lb-ft vs 155 lb-ft. That torque gap matters most when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 2026 Ford Maverick XL runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport uses a 3.6L V6. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2026 Ford Maverick XL, 4WD on the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport.
Is the 2026 Ford Maverick XL bigger than the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport?
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport is 18.2″ longer at 218.0″ vs 199.8″. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport has a 16.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Ford Maverick XL and 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport comes with 4WD, while the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Maverick trims, Jeep trims, Jeep Gladiator trims
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Maverick vs Gladiator: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL and 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport compete directly in the compact truck segment, where towing capacity, payload, and cab comfort separate the contenders. The $10,685 gap adds up to $188/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL runs a 2.5L I4 hybrid; the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport uses a 3.6L V6. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport has 94 more hp (285 vs 191). A gap that large affects towing confidence, highway merging, and how loaded the vehicle can feel before it struggles. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport also delivers 105 more lb-ft of torque (260 vs 155), which matters for trailer stability and pulling heavy loads up grades. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport comes with 4WD; the 2026 Ford Maverick XL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Maverick vs Gladiator
The 2026 Ford Maverick XL saves roughly $1,134/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $5,670. The 2026 Ford Maverick XL wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport is 18.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport has a 16.2″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport weighs 988 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Ford Maverick XL when you want to keep $10,685 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Maverick XL covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport when you need the extra 94 hp for towing, hauling, or highway merging. At $188/month more, the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or Jeep or any dealership.