Ute falls short in safety tests

The Jeep Gladiator has been awarded a three-star safety rating with ANCAP Safety warning structural issues with the vehicle pose an “increased risk for occupants”.

Australasia’s independent voice on vehicle safety revealed the safety score for the niche utility vehicle on October 14.

It follows testing of the marque’s partner model, the Jeep Wrangler, in 2019.

Both share the same core structural underpinnings, engine configuration and restraint package. As a result, ANCAP says the Gladiator produced a similar structural crash performance to the Wrangler.

Safety tests show the five-seat dual cab Gladiator ute offers levels of protection for adult occupants and vulnerable road users below that expected by consumers, adds ANCAP, with scores of 60 per cent and 49 per cent respectively.

Rhianne Robson, director – communications and advocacy, says: “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.

“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.”

Carrying across the same collision avoidance equipment as the Wrangler – with the ability to detect and assist in avoiding a crash with another vehicle – the Gladiator achieved a safety assist score of 51 per cent.

However, the AEB system fitted to the Gladiator does not offer the ability to detect or respond to potential crashes with pedestrians and cyclists. Active lane support functionality is also not available.

The three-star safety rating applies to all Gladiator variants supplied to the Australian and New Zealand markets.