Jeep® Adds Holiday Cheer With All-New Gladiator Sahara

Just when we thought Jeep® was done unwrapping surprises for the year, the brand has dropped another Gladiator model right in the heart of the holiday season. Meet the 2026 Jeep Gladiator Sahara, a trim level that brings the iconic Sahara nameplate to the pickup lineup for the very first time—and does so with a clear focus on comfort, style, and everyday livability.

The Sahara name has been part of Jeep history since 1988, traditionally representing a more refined take on the Wrangler formula. Now, that same idea carries over to the Gladiator, creating a more upscale alternative to the Sport S while still keeping the rugged DNA that truck and Jeep buyers expect.

At first glance, the Gladiator Sahara stands out for its cleaner, more polished look. Body-color fender flares replace the black plastic pieces found on lower trims, giving the truck a more cohesive appearance. The same goes for the body-color three-piece hardtop, which adds a premium touch while still allowing drivers to enjoy open-air freedom when the weather cooperates. Standard LED headlamps and fog lamps round out the exterior upgrades, improving both nighttime visibility and curb appeal.

Heated front seats, heated steering wheel, body-color fender flares, Corning Gorilla Glass windshield, Sahara badging, remote start, full-speed forward collision warning, adaptive safety tech, 7-inch digital cluster, automatic climate control, deep-tint glass, premium wrapped steering wheel, and more.

Rolling underneath are 18-inch aluminum wheels paired with all-season tires, making the Sahara equally comfortable on pavement or light trails. Jeep will also offer an all-terrain tire upgrade at no extra cost, though availability will come later. It’s a nice touch that reinforces the Gladiator’s dual-purpose nature without forcing buyers into a single use case.

Inside is where the Gladiator Sahara really earns its name. The cabin steps up with McKinley leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel—features that feel especially well-timed for winter driving. Jeep also includes a 7-inch digital driver display alongside the latest 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, keeping the interior tech-forward without overwhelming the driver. Remote start and keyless entry come standard as well, adding everyday convenience to the mix.

From a value standpoint, Jeep is clearly positioning the Sahara as a smart upgrade rather than a major jump. The package includes $4,685 worth of added content compared to a Gladiator Sport S, yet carries an MSRP increase of just $2,210. That works out to a 53% value add, which is hard to ignore in today’s truck market.

Gladiator Sahara offers a selection of exterior colors that let buyers personalize their truck’s look while understanding the value of each choice. Bright White and Hydro Blue are available at no additional cost, making them attractive baseline options. Several mid-tier premium hues — including Anvil, Black, and Granite Crystal — each carry an upcharge of $595. For those seeking something with more personality, Mojito is also a $595 option, while Reign stands out at a $895 premium. Whether you want a classic, understated finish or a more distinctive color, the Gladiator Sahara’s palette provides choices to match your style and budget.

Altogether, Gladiator Sahara starts at $49,120 (that includes destination). As with all new vehicle pricing, this starting price does not include taxes, title, registration, or any additional dealer fees, which can vary by location. For buyers who want something more comfortable and visually refined than a Sport S—but don’t necessarily need the hardcore off-road hardware of a Rubicon—the Sahara hits a sweet spot.