Jeep increases prices on Wrangler and Gladiator by up to $7000

Jeep has increased prices of the Wrangler four-wheel drive and Gladiator ute by up to $7000 as the US car giant struggles to keep pace with surging demand and limited supply.

Dealers have been advised a number of customers with an existing order on a Wrangler or a Gladiator may be required to pay the higher prices – if stock of Model Year 2021 examples have sold out – despite putting down a deposit at the earlier, lower price.

The other option for those who have placed an order is to lose their spot in the queue, and receive a refund of their deposit.

A confidential dealer bulletin seen by Drive has confirmed the price increases.

The Model Year 2022 Jeep Wrangler (MY22) is subject to the sharpest price rises, up by $6600 on two-door versions, and by $6800 to $7000 on four-door versions.

The Jeep Gladiator ute has received a price rise of between $2100 and $2300, depending on specification.

Customers waiting for a 2021-build Wrangler or Gladiator may be caught out by the price rises, because extended delays have pushed deliveries into this year’s supply.

The confidential bulletin to Jeep dealers explained the circumstances, which affects both the Wrangler and Gladiator:

"As communicated in December (2021), we advised the dealer network demand for MY21 has exceeded supply and therefore we are unable to fulfil all MY21 customer orders," the notice from Jeep says.

"If an equivalent MY21 is unable to be sourced, then at the dealer’s discretion, they may opt to provide (the customer) a MY22 model, however this will be at the new MY22 price."

Jeep dealers canvassed by Drive said waiting times for a new Wrangler could be as long as nine months.

The price rises have been attributed to the change from depleted stocks of Model Year 2021 vehicles, and the arrival of Model Year 2022 vehicles.

Both model years are believed to have the same levels of equipment, however the move to the next model year means there is no pricing protection for those with a deposit, says Jeep. 

Drive understands customers with an existing order for an MY21 Wrangler or Gladiator are being contacted by their dealers, to inform them of the price increase.

When contacted by Drive, a spokesperson for Jeep Australia said "The price increase is reflective of the significant increase in material costs, coupled with ongoing supply chain issues, that continue to be experienced by manufacturers globally."

Note: The above prices exclude on-road costs such as registration and stamp duty.