That's right -- more from the LA Auto Show:

I usually don't get too excited about concept cars, but Jeep keeps bringing out the Gladiator to work me into a lather. It premiered at last year's shows, and it's back again this year.

The gladiator is what Jeep is calling a "Flexible Utility Truck." It's basically a pickup truck with the styling of a Wrangler. Jeep claims that it actually would have the off-road capability of a Wrangler as well, though with a 138.4" wheelbase and 4,150 lb curb weight, that's kind of an ambitious overstatement. The Gladiator has some nice features -- a 5'8" bed that can be expanded to 6'8" by opening a midgate and 8'11" by dropping the tailgate; solid front and rear axle suspensions with 5 bar links, dual coilover springs and 13.7" of ground clearance.

Jeep admits that the Gladiator is conceived as a "lifestyle" pickup -- and I appreciate that admission. I just love the way it looks, and would love to tool around in such a cool-looking truck.

So, go ahead, DaimlerChryslerMercedesBenzMaybachDodgeJeep. Make me a Gladiator.