Jeep Gladiator 2020: Pics of Wrangler ute leaked

Have pics of Jeep's new Wrangler-based ute, the Gladiator, just leaked online? That's the word from the Jeep Gladiator Forum, which is claiming these pictures appeared on the official FCA media site before being hurriedly taken down.

The news comes just one day after reports Jeep had ditched the expected Scrambler moniker for its new mid-size pick-up surfaced, instead settling on Gladiator as the name. The same forum named a "trusted source" who spotted the Gladiator name flash up on FCA's offical media site, taking a screen shot before it disappeared.

Jeep Gladiator ute leaked ahead of official reveal

This most recent leak not only confirms the name, but the pictures do seem to show the final production version of the Wrangler-based ute, including a choice between a soft and hardtop roof, and a long, deep tray sticking out behind the traditional four-door body of a Wrangler Unlimited.

Along with the photo leak, a specification document has also appeared online, with Jeep describing its Gladiator as "the most capable mid-size truck ever" with "legendary capability" and "best-in-class towing".

According to the documents, the Gladiator will be offered initially with a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 equipped with engine start-stop. A 3.0-litre diesel V6 will be available from 2020. Towing capacity is listed at "up to" 7650 pounds, or around 3.5 tonnes, and payload capacity at 1600 pounds, or 725 kilograms.

Its off-road chops look very solid, too. The published documents reveal there will be a Rubicon verison, along with Command-Trac and Rock-Trac four-wheel-drive systems, Dana axles, rear axle lockers, a limited-slip differential and 33-inch off-road tyres, along with 30-inches (76cm) of water-fording ability.

The pictures appeared on a Jeep fan forum

The steel tray stretches five feet, and is equipped with a covered power source and tie-down points. American cars come with the fold-down windshield, too, though that bit it unlikely to make it to Australia. On the tech front, a choice of 7.0- or 8.4-inch touchscreens are both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto equipped. 

The long-teased ladder-frame ute will soon be officially unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show where its full specification will be revealed. Its Australian launch date remains unclear, though it is confirmed for our market. But with the incoming JL Wrangler’s USA launch expected early in the new year, we’d be surprised to see a Gladiator here before the end of next year.

What do you think of the Gladiator's looks? Tell us in the comments below.