The Jeep® Gladiator has begun a gruelling test across multiple disciplines in its quest to be crowned South African Bakkie of the Year.
The competition, which is now in its second year, is open to all double cab 4×4 pickup derivatives launched after September 2023. There are three classes defined by engine output: 100-125kW; 121 – 160kW and 161kW upwards. This year sees the addition of a new category for specialised pickup vehicles. This is the category into which the Jeep Gladiator has been entered.
“We are excited about the competition and to see how the Jeep Gladiator will fare,” says Jeep brand head Janus Janse van Rensburg. “We have always said it was designed to enter the arena and now it is doing just that.”
The Jeep Gladiator builds on a rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks offering rugged utility and uncompromising 4×4 capability. It really is a unique vehicle suited to taking passengers and cargo anywhere.
As the most capable mid-size truck ever, the Jeep Gladiator builds on a rich heritage of tough, dependable Jeep trucks with an unmatched combination of rugged utility, authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, clever functionality and versatility, best-in-class towing and 4×4 payload, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, superior on- and off-road dynamics and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features.
The Bakkie of the Year competition, which held its inaugural edition last year, is designed to find the best pickup in South Africa by putting all the entrants through a robust and stringent testing regimen that incorporates on and off-road dynamics as well as towing and loading capabilities.
The entrants will be evaluated by a jury made up of specialist motoring journalists and industry experts in the different categories, with each discipline under the auspices of a course director who is a recognised expert in that field.
The category winners will be announced at the Nampo Cape agricultural expo, which is being held between September 11th and 14th in Bredasdorp, with the overall winner being announced at a special event later in September.