Personally, I hope the Gladiator gets built by DCX. I actually think it is quite likely to happen. However, I did seriously consider an AEV Brute and have not ruled it out, but the appearance of the Gladiator stopped me in my tracks and I decided to wait. But I think the Brute is still a tad too small just like the original Scrambler. This new kit looks appealing and it is in line (pricewise) with the AEV Brute. I figure it would cost about $12K by the time you figure in kit cost, paint, and some misc.
Would I consider it? Yep, I like the size of the bed and the look (except for the God awful tail lights) of the vehicle. Like the Brute and Scrambler it looks great and the bed appears to be slightly longer than the Brutes' and certainly longer than a Scrambler or Unlimited.

I've insured custom vehicles in the past with no real trouble and did not have to pay an arm and a leg extra. Unless something has changed with insurance coverage reg.s (here in TX) it seems do-able. Of course to keep costs realistic I would not start with a new TJ I'd buy a good used six cyl and go from there.

Even though I really like the idea of a pickup truck version of the Wrangler (My unlimited has the 1/2 top from Jeep, and wood side-rails like the Scrambler), but seriously, who would spend this kind of money for a kit or buy AEV's Brute?

Think of the fun you have talking to your insurance guy about insuring a Jeep that was modified to this level. Basically, you now have a custom car. I know, many Jeepers put on a lot of goodies, but basically, underneath it is still the Wrangler. This kind of modification changes the dimensions and structure of the vehicle beyond specifications.


I sure hope Jeep seriously considers making the Jeep Gladiator concept, because at least that would be more affordable and practicle for most of us. Unfortunately, it seems the only thing Jeep can do is produce another 4-door SUV that looks partly like the classic XJ, or is a copy of someone elses 4-door SUV. Maybe if Jeep sees all these companies converting the Wrangler into a pickup truck that they get the idea there is a market for such a vehicle.