Jeep Gladiator 392 Coming To Do Battle Against Ford Ranger Raptor

After opting to sunset V8 engines in favor of smaller-displacement units with forced induction and electric power, Stellantis has quickly pivoted back in that direction as of late. Turns out, Mopar fans love a good old fashioned V8 engine, and the automaker is keen to give them what they want. That mission started with the decision to revive the Hemi V8 in the Ram 1500 after a one-year absence, and now, the Jeep Gladiator 392 will mark the very first V8-powered version of the mid-size Ford Ranger rival, too.

According to Car & Driver, Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf revealed this little tidbit of information during a broader announcement in which he also announced that the just-discontinued Wrangler Rubicon 392 will, in fact, live on. “After being out at the Rubicon Trail, it’s clear just how much people love the roar of the 392,” Broderdorf said. “We will extend the availability of the 392 Wrangler, and in fact, we will tap the power and performance of the Hemi across Jeep products as new projects are already underway.”

While this announcement was being made, an image of the Jeep Gladiator appeared on the screens behind Borderdorf, all while he said “Jeep fans, don’t worry, the 6.4L Hemi V8 will have a home at Jeep.” When asked if a V8 could also find its way into the Grand Cherokee, the exec didn’t deny that either, merely saying “people want options.” Regardless, perhaps the most notable news here is that the Jeep Gladiator 392 will arrive at some point in the future, becoming very first V8-powered version of that pickup to date.

As for the Ford Ranger Raptor it’ll do battle with, it has enjoyed its fair share of success since launching in the U.S. market for the 2024 model year, even if it can’t be had with V8 power – though at least it will be sold with gas engines for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, Stellantis is also reportedly working on a more traditional fixed-roof Ranger rival with a Ram badge, which will utilize body-on-frame construction and join the ever-expanding mid-size pickup fray.