Jeep Boss Crushes Dreams of V8 Wrangler or Gladiator

Plenty of Jeep Wrangler owners and Gladiator hopefuls want to know why Jeep doesn’t offer the Hemi V8 or the blown Hellcat V8 in their off-road. It turns out the V8 fits like a glove, and that is the problem. There is no space left after the engine is loaded in there.

Apparently, with a V8 under the hood of the Wrangler or Gladiator, there is no space left for energy absorption in an accident. Sadly, that means these Jeep vehicles can’t pass crash tests with a V8 installed. That crushes all hopes of a factory Hellcat or Hemi V8 Wrangler or Gladiator, at least in current configurations.

In speaking with Australia’s Drive, Jeep North America head Tim Kuniskis softened the no-Hemi blow a little by saying Jeep is gauging interest on a 2-door Gladiator, and will be showing off a concept version at the upcoming Easter Jeep Safari.