Torque Staff Report
Welcome to the Seven Slot Dispatch, our weekly aggregation of Jeep news and events from around the automotive landscape. Every week, we’ll be shifting into low range to bring you the latest news, gear drops, and industry moves shaping the Jeep world.
Whether it's fresh concept news from Moab, Utah, new initiatives from Stellantis, a dive into Jeep’s latest model, or a closer look at the community that's been living the Jeep life for decades, you'll find it all here — served up with the same grit and passion that built the brand itself.
Here’s the latest news and information.
Jeep Canada Cuts Prices on 2026 Gladiator Lineup
The Jeep brand is making its midsize pickup more attainable for Canadian buyers in 2026 with significant MSRP reductions across the entire Gladiator lineup. Prices are down as much as $11,400 CAD compared to 2025 models, with the entry-level Sport S now starting under $50,000 before fees.
Customers can choose from Sport S, Willys, Mojave, and Rubicon trims—including Desert Rated and Trail Rated options—all powered by Jeep’s proven 3.6L Pentastar V-6. Despite lower pricing, capability remains unchanged: the Gladiator still leads the segment with 7,700 pounds of max towing and 1,725 pounds of best-in-class payload, while keeping its distinction as the industry’s only open-air pickup.
The Gladiator recently earned the top spot in J.D. Power’s 2025 Initial Quality Study for midsize pickups, further reinforcing its value proposition. Canadian customers can order 2026 Gladiators now, with dealer arrivals later this year.
Unexpected Heroes: Clack Middle School Staff Save Stranded Jeep
When a Jeep got stuck in the mud—right in its school uniform—the rescue came from unexpected first responders. Two Clack Middle School employees, Mrs. Josselet and Mrs. Sage, rushed to help push the vehicle free while still dressed for the school day. The school district’s superintendent, Dr. John Kuhn, shared the heartwarming story that put “customer service” into action beyond the front office.
For Jeep owners, getting stuck is almost a rite of passage—but so is lending a hand. The quick teamwork from these educators not only freed the stranded rig but also showed the same values Jeep enthusiasts celebrate on the trail: community, problem-solving, and the willingness to step up when someone else needs a push.
Jeep Wrangler Recall: Faulty Tire Pressure Sensors Could Mask Danger
Jeep is issuing a recall for nearly 80,000 vehicles—primarily 2024-25 Wranglers—due to a defect in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). A specific sensor part may drain its battery prematurely, rendering the system inoperative and potentially masking underinflated tires. This failure increases the risk of sudden tire blowouts during driving.
The fix is straightforward: dealers will inspect and replace the defective TPMS sensors at no cost. Owners are encouraged to schedule service promptly to ensure proper tire pressure monitoring is restored and remain safe on and off the road.
Stellantis Pauses EV, Hybrid Push as $7,500 Tax Credit Nears Expiration
Stellantis NV has pulled back production of its electrified lineup just weeks before the federal $7,500 EV tax credit ends on September 30. Dealers report halted or restricted orders on several key models—including the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Grand Cherokee 4xe, Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S, and Dodge Charger Daytona.
The automaker confirmed some EV production pauses but framed the move as aligning supply with demand. Still, dealers are rushing to sell remaining inventory before incentives expire, warning customers that models could soon become significantly pricier. Stellantis has even added reminders on its websites: “Your $7,500 EV incentive is going fast.”
The decision comes as California’s strict emissions policies ease under recent regulatory changes, reducing Stellantis’ pressure to push plug-in hybrids across multiple states. While EV newcomers like Wagoneer S and Charger Daytona have struggled with sales, the brand’s plug-in hybrids remain strong performers—Wrangler 4xe accounted for 37% of Wrangler sales in 2024, while Grand Cherokee 4xe and Pacifica Hybrid also logged steady volume.
Industry analysts note Stellantis’ move mirrors broader market adjustments as tax incentives disappear and consumer appetite for higher-priced EVs remains uncertain. For Jeep, it marks a pivot point in balancing electrification with traditional powertrains at a critical moment in the U.S. market.
