Jeep is one of the top vehicle manufacturers on the planet. This popular brand provides some of the most unique vehicles on the market today, especially if you’re looking for an off-roading ride. However, Jeep also sells a variety of dependable family-friendly automobiles.
As there are several popular Jeep models, the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon are among the most popular. In this post, we’ll discuss the differences between these two exciting Jeeps, including the features of each model.
Wrangler Top Features
When you think about the classic image of a Jeep, you probably picture a Jeep Wrangler. While this famous model is known for hitting rugged dirt roads, they’re also great for riding in the city. Their versatility is one of the leading benefits of the Wrangler.
Take a look at more features of the Jeep Wrangler below:
Performance
The WranglerJeep model features a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, which is the standard Wrangler engine. If you want to take things up a notch, you can easily pair this Jeep with a six-speed manual gearbox or a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic. Another option is to upgrade to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor! There are several other engine upgrades you can make, including:
- 3.6-liter V-6 with hybrid assist
- 3.0-liter diesel V-6
- 375-hp plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain
- 6.4-liter V-8
With so many engine choices, you can build the Wrangler you’ve always wanted!
Aside from engine configurations and power, let’s talk about speed. According to tests run by Car and Driver magazine, the base model two-door Wrangler Sport with a V-6 engine and six-speed manual transmission drove from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. For the Jeep Wrangler Sahara with four doors, it finished the test in 6.8 seconds. As we compare this Wrangler with previous models, there is definitely a speed improvement.
The handling of the Jeep Wrangler is also up a notch. However, many drivers say it’s still similar to driving a truck, which is a downside compared to today’s refined pickups and road SUV vehicles.
Fuel Economy
Whenever people talk about Jeeps, fuel economy is always a topic of discussion—and it’s not always pretty. Unfortunately, the Jeep Wrangler isn’t at the top of the list when it comes to MPG. However, Wrangler's new EPA fuel-economy estimates put the model ahead of the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 and the Toyota 4Runner. You can expect to get 20-mpg on the highway with the V-6-powered four-door Wrangler Sahara, and 29-mpg highway with the diesel engine option.
Electric Capabilities
If you’re looking to take advantage of electric vehicle technology, the new Wrangler with the 375-hp plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain engine has you covered. This Jeep model comes loaded with a 17.0-kWh battery pack, providing riders with up to 25 miles of electric-only driving! When the battery runs out, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine steps in to help.
Interior and Comfort Qualities
The Jeep Wrangler blends vintage Jeep features with modern elements, creating a sleek and comfortable ride. While it’s not the most spacious, it still gets the job done. One popular feature is the wide viewing area, whether you’re on the road or off-trail. However, the rear view is obstructed by thick roof pillars, grab handles, and roll bars. If you’re looking to clear the view, you can simply remove the roof and doors.
Need added room in the Wrangler? If so, shoot for the four-door model. While the classic two-door Wrangler has room to fit just two carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats, the four-door model can fit 10! This is a huge factor to consider when trying to choose one model over the other. Not only does the extra room mean more cargo space for gear, but it also allows you to travel with more adventure buddies. This is one of those creature comforts that is well worth the extra money!
Safety Features
The Jeep Wrangler comes with a number of safety and driver-assistance features, helping drivers stay more aware on the road. However, this vehicle doesn’t have some of the advanced technology found in other similarly priced SUVs.
Check out the safety features on the Jeep Wrangler below:
- Available rear cross-traffic alert
- Available blind-spot monitoring
- Available rear parking sensors
No matter where you take your Jeep Wrangler, this vehicle will keep you and your belongings safe.
Rubicon Top Features
Now let's talk about the Jeep Rubicon! It’s important to note that this vehicle is part of the Wrangler lineup, not an entirely different model.
While the Wrangler is designed for the off-road enthusiast, the Rubicon is built for the avid, frequent adventurer. This four-wheel drive beast features a strong steel frame, a heavy-duty suspension, electronic locking differentials, special off-road shocks, and so much more! It also comes loaded with 33-inch all-terrain tires for the most rugged of landscapes. If you want even larger tires, consider the RubiconXtreme Recon package. This ride comes loaded with 35-inch tires, allowing you to tackle some crazy terrain! This upgrade is often compared to the Sasquatch package found on the Ford Bronco.
Keep reading to learn more about Rubicon’s roading features, performance, and what makes this ride one of the best compact SUVs on the market!
Exterior Design
Whether you choose the stock Rubicon, the Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, Rubicon Sport, or another trim level, you’ll always get the same bold look of a classic Wrangler. This includes the legendary boxy frame with the intimidating grille. Additionally, similar to other Jeeps, the Rubicon features removable doors, a removable roof, and folding windows, taking the off-roading experience to another level. You can also expect a 10.8-inch ground clearance on the Rubicon, which is among the highest in its class.
Powertrain
When it comes to power, the Rubicon packs a punch. Here are the engine options on the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon and all other Wrangler models:
- 285-horsepower V6
- 270-horsepower turbo-four
- 375-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain with a turbo-four engine and two electric motors
Talk about power! If you get the stock Rubicon, you’ll still get a strong V6 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. And if you want to shift gears a little more smoothly, consider the upgraded Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. This ride features paddle shifters conveniently mounted on the steering wheel! Also, while a manual transmission is common in this Jeep, there are Rubicons with an automatic transmission if that’s your preference.
Road Capability
The Rubicon is a true off-road warrior. In fact, it’s one of the best vehicles you can take off the beaten path. It features a strong rear axle, Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials, a powerful transfer case, and an advanced traction control system.
Staying Connected
The new Rubicon is built with the advanced dashboard technology you can trust. This includes Jeep’s simple-to-use infotainment system with a 7-inch touch screen display. Furthermore, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio are all included!
Safety Features
The Jeep Rubicon takes safety to another level. Look at some of the advanced safety and driver assistance features you can expect:
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Rear parking sensors
- Electronic stability control
- Available advanced braking assist
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available full-speed forward collision warning
With all of these advanced safety features, you could be riding in one of the safest Jeeps ever built!
Cargo Room
As we’ve discussed, the available cargo space in Jeeps isn’t ideal. However, you can still get decent room in Rubicon’s four-door models. These vehicles feature 72.4 cubic feet of space behind the front seats and 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
What Are the Main Differences?
While the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Rubicon have many of the same features, there are some key differences to consider. This largely has to do with the price tag and off-road performance. Simply put, the Rubicon is an upgrade from the Wrangler. However, with so many add-ons to choose from, you could upgrade your Wrangler until it rivals the Rubicon. But when it comes to stock models, the Rubicon is better equipped for off-road adventures.
Take a look at a few more differences between these models below:
- Only the Rubicon comes with the Electronic Front Sway Bar Disconnect, providing peace of mind while on the trail.
- The Rubicon comes with a Dana 44 front axle, while the Wrangler Sahara has a Dana 30 solid axle in the front.
- The Wrangler Sahara has a 3.21 axle ratio, while there’s a 4.10 axle ratio in the Rubicon.
- The Rubicon comes loaded with a Rock-Trac system, while the Wrangler Sahara includes the Command-Trac system.
So, Which Jeep is Better?
Deciding which Jeep model is best depends on your preferences and how much you can afford. If we don’t look at the price tag, the Rubicon beats the Wrangler in several different categories, especially if you’re going off-road. The Rubicon’s electronic front sway bar disconnect, powerful suspension, high-quality rear bumper, and rock rails can make all the difference while adventuring on rugged trails.
Boost Your Ride with Specialty Performance Parts Today!
As we mentioned earlier, there are tons of add-ons and upgrades for your Jeep, whether you have the Wrangler, Rubicon, Cherokee Trailhawk, or another model. If you’re looking for some of the best Jeep parts in the business, check out Specialty Performance Parts today! We carry a wide range of Jeep LED light kits, harnesses, bumpers, and much more.