Jeep® Finally Unveils Gladiator Big Bear Edition for California

Jeep® has officially introduced the 2025 Gladiator Big Bear Edition, a California-exclusive off-road-ready pickup designed to embrace the Golden State’s rugged terrain. This special-edition Gladiator pays homage to Big Bear Lake, a popular four-season destination, while also drawing inspiration from the California state flag’s grizzly bear. Limited to just 5,000 units, this unique model blends off-road capability with premium convenience features.

MoparInsiders first broke the news about Jeep’s Gladiator Big Bear Edition plans on December 6, 2024. Jeep has confirmed the details, positioning this model as a highly sought-after variant for off-road enthusiasts in California. Built on the Gladiator Sport S, the Big Bear Edition has rugged enhancements and exclusive badging.

Under the hood, the Gladiator Big Bear Edition retains the proven 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels through Jeep’s Command-Trac 4×4 system, which features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio for superior off-road control. Paired with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, the Big Bear Edition is ready to tackle California’s deserts, forests, and mountain trails.

Jeep has equipped the Big Bear Edition with 17-inch black-painted aluminum wheels wrapped in 32-inch mud-terrain tires to enhance its off-road credentials. Steel rock rails offer added underbody protection, while a body-color hardtop provides a refined yet rugged appearance. Unique Big Bear badging on the hood and tailgate further sets this model apart.

The Gladiator Big Bear Edition receives premium upgrades, including Black McKinley-trimmed leather seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Keyless entry, power heated mirrors, and adaptive cruise control come standard, adding everyday convenience to its off-road prowess. A 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen infotainment system brings modern connectivity with Jeep® Offroad Pages Plus, SiriusXM, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

One of the standout features is Jeep®’s AppMarket, an onboard digital hub offering adventure apps like Geocaching and The Dyrt. The system lets users purchase connected services directly from the vehicle’s main screen, ensuring seamless integration for road trips and trail excursions. The Big Bear Edition also supports over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep the software and infotainment system current.

California Jeep dealers are now accepting orders for the 2025 Gladiator Big Bear Edition, which starts at $46,090, excluding the $1,995 destination fee. Buyers can choose from various exterior colors, including the new-for-2025 shade called ‘41, Black, Bright White, Granite Crystal, Hydro Blue, Firecracker Red, Anvil, and for a limited time, Mojito!

Beyond launching the Big Bear Edition, Stellantis North America has also made a philanthropic move by donating $500,000 to the United Way of Greater Los Angeles Wildfire Response. The automaker also holds disaster relief drives at its Auburn Hills Headquarters and manufacturing facilities, collecting food and essential supplies for those impacted by the fires.

Jeep delivers a rugged, California-inspired off-roader tailored for adventure seekers with the Gladiator Big Bear Edition. As the latest addition to the Gladiator lineup, this special edition blends capability, technology, and exclusivity into one compelling package. It should be noted that this model matches the Texas-exclusive Gladiator Texas Trail model.