The Convertible Pickup Truck: A Rare Species
Convertible pickup trucks seem like a forgotten segment, with only a couple of models remaining on the market. These vehicles, which combine the functionality of a truck with the open-air experience, were more common in the late 20th century.
The Jeep Gladiator, one of the remaining convertible pickup trucks.
The remaining models, as of 2025, offer distinct experiences, catering to different customer needs. Here’s a look at these unique vehicles: the Jeep Gladiator and the GMC Hummer EV Pickup.
Note: Prices in this article were accurate at the time of writing but may change.
A Brief History of the Convertible Truck
The convertible pickup truck has a surprisingly long history, dating back to 1925. Ford introduced a drop-top version of the Model T pickup, featuring a canvas roof. This design choice helped start a trend in automotive design. The idea resurfaced in the 1960s, with models from International Harvester and Ford.
The Appeal of a Convertible Pickup
The primary appeal of a convertible pickup lies in its combination of truck utility with the enjoyment of open-air driving. In the early days of motoring, before air conditioning became mainstream, the open-top design provided a refreshing driving experience, especially after working hard. For families, it added a sense of freedom.
The Jeep Gladiator: A Modern Take
The Jeep Gladiator, a re-imagining of a model Jeep originally introduced in 1962, is one of the last remaining gasoline-powered drop-top pickups. The Gladiator, resurrected in 2019, offers a versatile experience, with options like a foldable canvas roof and a removable hard top.
2025 Jeep Gladiator Specifications
- Engine: 3.6L NA V6
- Power: 285 hp
- Torque: 260 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 7.2-8.5 seconds
- MSRP: $38,695-$61,995
The Gladiator’s base model starts at $38,695 and can be found in eight different trims, each with different features. The top-end models offer off-road cameras and heavy-duty bumpers.
One notable choice for Gladiator buyers is the engine, as all eight trims come equipped with a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated Pentastar V6 engine paired with either an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission.
The Chevrolet SSR was a unique entry in the convertible truck market.
The GMC Hummer EV Pickup: Electric Power, Open-Air Design
The GMC Hummer EV Pickup offers a unique open-air experience in an electric truck.
Alongside the Gladiator, the GMC Hummer EV is another convertible pickup option. The Hummer EV’s ‘infinity’ roof design, which lacks door and roof rails, opens it up and gives it a more conventional convertible feel. This design is possible due to the Hummer’s rigid underpinnings, which support its heavy battery and electric powertrain.
2025 GMC Hummer EV Truck Specifications
- Powertrain: 2 or 3 electric motors
- Power: 570-1,000 hp
- Torque (Wheel): 7,400-11,500 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 3.0-3.5 seconds
- MSRP: $98,845-$106,945
Two versions of the Hummer EV are available: a twin-motor and a tri-motor. The tri-motor option is more powerful and includes features like torque vectoring. It is also the most expensive truck currently on sale in the US.
Why the Decline?
The primary reason for the decline of convertible pickups is that most truck drivers do not need a convertible. Many drivers need trucks for work, and the open design can lead to debris entering the cabin. Modern climate control systems have also made open-top driving less necessary.
A Look Back: Convertible Pickups of the Past
The convertible pickup market was more active in the past, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s.
- 1981-1986 Jeep Scrambler CJ8
- 1989-1991 Dodge Dakota Convertible
- 1991 Ford Skyranger
- 1992-2006 Hummer H1
- 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR
Today, only two options remain, offering a unique blend of functionality and open-air enjoyment for those looking to stand out.
Sources: Jeep, GMC.
