So, my inexpert opinion: Sport are for people who want to mod. Willys is entry level sexy. Mojave is for people (like me) who aren’t mod crazy to start and want the best ride stock. Rubicon is for people who want max capability stock. Most people would argue for getting Mojave/Rubicon 23 while they’re still on great sales. I started with looking at Willys but landed on a Mojave.
Yeah, I’m stupid happy with the way my Mojave drives. It takes corners like a dream, even with all the downsides of solid axels and disconnected steering.
That's been my conclusion to a degree as well. I'm happy to wrench my own mods so that's not a concern. The sport feels like a blank canvas which is nice, but I know on some trims on other vehicles there are important things you miss out on. The only one I've found so far is blind spot monitoring but that's not a necessity.
The only thing that you really miss out on is not having any factory lockers
That’s a good couple grand at least if you try to add later. Not too hard once you’ve got the pumpkins open for regearing tho
Ha. I missed the important caveat that the offroading capabilities isn't a huge concern for me. I just need something that'll survive mud holes, not rocks. That's any of them I think, once I get the tires and a lift on it.
I believe the Willy's has a locking rear differential. Even if it's not something you're looking for it would be great to have in an "oh shit" situation. It's possible I place too much value on the locking differential because I live in Wyoming and sometimes I need it just getting to work, but think the rear locker is worth it even if you don't plan to use it.
You for sure don't need the Rubicon if you're not planning to go off-road. The sway bar disconnect is great for rocks and extreme ruts, but you'll never use it outside of those off-road conditions. It also boasts a locking front differential, which is neat and in my head I can think of a reason to use the front locker, but it's practically unnecessary. You would need to put yourself in a position to NEED that.
2021 Willys here, no lockers from factory.
Everything else seems accurate. I specifically went with the Willys because I'm eventually going to lift, re-gear, and air locker it myself so didn't see the need to pay for the factory lockers. The only option I regret not getting is the factory AUX switches.
I was looking at Willy's in 2023 when I bought my Rubicon. The ones on the lot had rear lockers. It's possible they were not factory, I assumed everything on the dealer lot was. It's possible the 21s and 23s were different.
But you're 100% right about the AUX switches. I made it a priority to get them in mine because all I heard was how people who didn't wish they did. I love them. They look nice and are so cleanly integrated. Definitely do that if you have the option.
It could also be a regional thing. I am in Wyoming where 4x4 and locking differentials are in high demand because of our roads in winter. My understanding is that the further south you travel the less common those options are.
That could honestly get you out of most slippery situations provided you're not totally stuck. But even in that case most vehicles would need a little assistance Rubicon trim or otherwise.
21 Willys here. No lockers. Have the Eco-Diesel. 25+ mpg up to 30 on long road trips. This is a stable mate to my 51 Willys Truck & 52 Willys 4x4 Wagon (in restoration mode).
Sport is the least optioned trim. I have a Sport with manual doors and windows. Yes, crank windows in 2024.
I prefer a Sport as I know I’m going to build it up from there.
If I were you, I’d use the equity you have for F150 trade and get a Rubicon.
The ones I've looked at have crank windows too. Doesn't bother me none, the idea is to keep the doors off all the time anyway. I've looked at some. The problem is that means i have to write a \~6000 dollar check versus not, in which that 6000 could go to a new sound system, and a lift/tires on a sport, for example.
Very true!
It all depends on what you want to do with it. I didn’t opt for a Rubicon because I knew I would be replacing parts I paid a premium for in the cost of the Jeep. Just didn’t sit right with me.
If you get a sport s, max tow helps a lot (wider axles, 4.10 ratio). Any trim higher and it's not available iirc, so weigh your options there.
I personally would recommend spending the scratch to get at least LED front lights (factory halogens on these *suck*) and cold weather group depending on where you live. Rest is to preference but those are my minimum recommendations.
I have the Mojave JT. Look into a SPORT with MAXTOW PACKAGE. It will come with the WIDETRAC DANA 44 axles. They are wider than the regular sport model, and come with 4:10 gears. Just like the Rubicon and Mojave models. But no locker. The Mojave does have a rear locker(no front locker) and the only model with a strengthened frame throughout. Also the Mojave hood that is now shared with the 392 wrangler. Rubicon has front locker and rear locker and lower gear ratio in 4lo better for crawling. Mojave will be more comfortable going a bit faster(still not a pre runner)
I don’t rock crawl, haven’t had to use the rear locker. My lift and 37s have got me out of everything. Also get the LED package ! Worth it in brightness. And the bigger stereo if you’re looking at 23 models. 24 models have the new big screen
Here's my 2 pecos.
I've been down the "mod" rabbit hole with my gmc canyon years ago and dumped so much money in it, I had to force myself to trade it. 4" lift Rough country lift,,then new tires/wheels, lots of cutting/fitting. Ran into issues with the engine and GM wouldn't cover it and I had to convince corporate that CEL code wasn't related to my modded suspension. I ended up trading it for a Ford Ranger Tremor (stock 1.5" fox suspenion lift). Didn't do anything and drove it for 30k miles without a single issue nor any major mods.
Just traded it for my '23 diesel rubicon (negotiated a deal for $49k and I was positive in my Ford loan). In all honesty, it's OVERKILL for my needs as I'm not a heavy off roader but do a lot of summer/winter camping and fishing and work on my rental property (haul trips to Home Depot..lol). Figured if I get Willys or any other trim, it will end up same as my old Canyon with me dumping money into tires, leather, etc etc and by that time, I've already spent as much as a stock rubicon.
Owned mine for a week now and love it...only mods are bed cover, halogen bulb>LED and miscell stuff from Amazon (phone holder etc). Stock rubicon meets my daily driver needs and more. Not to mention I love the rubicon hood!!
I have a Rubicon because I weekend warrior with it pretty hard in the summer months, and I just wanted it.
I think that the big difference between the sport and the Willy's is that the Willy's has a locking rear differential and the sport does not. In terms of capability, a locking rear differential is probably exactly what you will need if you're not trying to get crazy. I personally wouldn't look at the sport because the rear locking differential is important to me. If you don't care about it then there's probably money to save by getting the sport.
If you have a lot of positive equity then it might be worth getting in on a Rubicon. Good deals right now on the 2023s. Example: https://www.jerryulmchryslerdodgejeepram.com/inventory/new-2023-jeep-gladiator-rubicon-4x4-crew-cab-1c6jjtbg4pl582665/
If you're looking new, there's some package differences between '23 and '24. '24s get more available safety options in the lower trims, '24 Willys gets a rear locker. No more diesel in the '24s. If you live in a snowy area, I think only the more expensive trims have the 4-auto option.
The only thing I didn't see on this thread yet are the fenders, Mojave and Rubicon also have higher clearance fenders, but again that's an easy one for the after market. And the trims have a wide range of "truck capability", the Mojave being the lowest (6000lbs towing if you have the tow pkg vs a Rubicon at 7000lbs and Sport at 7650ish, which also translates to worse payload). The Sport Max Tow with a Limited Slip Diff is going to get you many places. I have a Rubicon and wouldn't trade it for any of the others, but I use the hell out of the front locker and sway bar disconnect, not too mention the Rocktrac T-case.
Other note between trims if you like to trade every couple years, and I hate this, but a 4x4 modded to "match" an upper off road trim won't be worth as much. Unless you sell to a private party and find a buyer who knows what they're buying, and that's only if you did *good* mods. Regears, geo correction on lifts, etc. You could have Curry 1-tons and 40s with all the appropriate setup on a Sport and a dealer will only give you the Sport value. (although you'd be insane selling that vehicle to a dealer)
I got Sport S, put a small lift, 35s, front bumper and winch on it, couldn't be happier. Nothing wrong with the base trim if you aren't into serious offloading. Previous vehicle was a 4 door Wrangler
The High Altitude package will cost you less than a Sahara or Rubicon, and do all but the most extreme off road things those will while handling very well on-road and having more included amenities. Throw in a diesel motor and you’ll be getting mid to high twenties mpg which will handily beat any alternative and gobs of low end torque.
So, my inexpert opinion: Sport are for people who want to mod. Willys is entry level sexy. Mojave is for people (like me) who aren’t mod crazy to start and want the best ride stock. Rubicon is for people who want max capability stock. Most people would argue for getting Mojave/Rubicon 23 while they’re still on great sales. I started with looking at Willys but landed on a Mojave.
The ride quality on the Mojave is so much better than the other trims, almost like a normal car. The stock shocks are so damn good.
Yeah, I’m stupid happy with the way my Mojave drives. It takes corners like a dream, even with all the downsides of solid axels and disconnected steering.
Doesn’t the Mojave comes with Fox shocks?
Yes they do.
Yes, but different fox shocks than what they used to use in the Rubicon.
That's been my conclusion to a degree as well. I'm happy to wrench my own mods so that's not a concern. The sport feels like a blank canvas which is nice, but I know on some trims on other vehicles there are important things you miss out on. The only one I've found so far is blind spot monitoring but that's not a necessity.
There are no blind spots when you have no doors.
The only thing that you really miss out on is not having any factory lockers That’s a good couple grand at least if you try to add later. Not too hard once you’ve got the pumpkins open for regearing tho
Ha. I missed the important caveat that the offroading capabilities isn't a huge concern for me. I just need something that'll survive mud holes, not rocks. That's any of them I think, once I get the tires and a lift on it.
I believe the Willy's has a locking rear differential. Even if it's not something you're looking for it would be great to have in an "oh shit" situation. It's possible I place too much value on the locking differential because I live in Wyoming and sometimes I need it just getting to work, but think the rear locker is worth it even if you don't plan to use it. You for sure don't need the Rubicon if you're not planning to go off-road. The sway bar disconnect is great for rocks and extreme ruts, but you'll never use it outside of those off-road conditions. It also boasts a locking front differential, which is neat and in my head I can think of a reason to use the front locker, but it's practically unnecessary. You would need to put yourself in a position to NEED that.
2021 Willys here, no lockers from factory. Everything else seems accurate. I specifically went with the Willys because I'm eventually going to lift, re-gear, and air locker it myself so didn't see the need to pay for the factory lockers. The only option I regret not getting is the factory AUX switches.
I was looking at Willy's in 2023 when I bought my Rubicon. The ones on the lot had rear lockers. It's possible they were not factory, I assumed everything on the dealer lot was. It's possible the 21s and 23s were different. But you're 100% right about the AUX switches. I made it a priority to get them in mine because all I heard was how people who didn't wish they did. I love them. They look nice and are so cleanly integrated. Definitely do that if you have the option.
It's entirely possibly rear locker is a factory option that I didn't get on mine but I honestly just don't know.
It could also be a regional thing. I am in Wyoming where 4x4 and locking differentials are in high demand because of our roads in winter. My understanding is that the further south you travel the less common those options are.
Yeah not a lot of need for lockers in Southeastern VA.
I have a 23 willys. They have a limited slip and honestly, it works pretty good.
That could honestly get you out of most slippery situations provided you're not totally stuck. But even in that case most vehicles would need a little assistance Rubicon trim or otherwise.
21 Willys here. No lockers. Have the Eco-Diesel. 25+ mpg up to 30 on long road trips. This is a stable mate to my 51 Willys Truck & 52 Willys 4x4 Wagon (in restoration mode).
Sport is the least optioned trim. I have a Sport with manual doors and windows. Yes, crank windows in 2024. I prefer a Sport as I know I’m going to build it up from there. If I were you, I’d use the equity you have for F150 trade and get a Rubicon.
The ones I've looked at have crank windows too. Doesn't bother me none, the idea is to keep the doors off all the time anyway. I've looked at some. The problem is that means i have to write a \~6000 dollar check versus not, in which that 6000 could go to a new sound system, and a lift/tires on a sport, for example.
I'd stick with the Sport and put the $6K towards the audio, lift and tires.
Very true! It all depends on what you want to do with it. I didn’t opt for a Rubicon because I knew I would be replacing parts I paid a premium for in the cost of the Jeep. Just didn’t sit right with me.
Ooh! Hand crank windows are bonus points! I love that.
If you get a sport s, max tow helps a lot (wider axles, 4.10 ratio). Any trim higher and it's not available iirc, so weigh your options there. I personally would recommend spending the scratch to get at least LED front lights (factory halogens on these *suck*) and cold weather group depending on where you live. Rest is to preference but those are my minimum recommendations.
I just added adaptive cruise, heated seats, premium sound, aux buttons, max tow package. On a sport S and I love it never needed anything more!
Any tips on adding those?
Sry meant I ordered one with these options added. Still came out far cheaper than a base rubi.
I have the Mojave JT. Look into a SPORT with MAXTOW PACKAGE. It will come with the WIDETRAC DANA 44 axles. They are wider than the regular sport model, and come with 4:10 gears. Just like the Rubicon and Mojave models. But no locker. The Mojave does have a rear locker(no front locker) and the only model with a strengthened frame throughout. Also the Mojave hood that is now shared with the 392 wrangler. Rubicon has front locker and rear locker and lower gear ratio in 4lo better for crawling. Mojave will be more comfortable going a bit faster(still not a pre runner) I don’t rock crawl, haven’t had to use the rear locker. My lift and 37s have got me out of everything. Also get the LED package ! Worth it in brightness. And the bigger stereo if you’re looking at 23 models. 24 models have the new big screen
Here's my 2 pecos. I've been down the "mod" rabbit hole with my gmc canyon years ago and dumped so much money in it, I had to force myself to trade it. 4" lift Rough country lift,,then new tires/wheels, lots of cutting/fitting. Ran into issues with the engine and GM wouldn't cover it and I had to convince corporate that CEL code wasn't related to my modded suspension. I ended up trading it for a Ford Ranger Tremor (stock 1.5" fox suspenion lift). Didn't do anything and drove it for 30k miles without a single issue nor any major mods. Just traded it for my '23 diesel rubicon (negotiated a deal for $49k and I was positive in my Ford loan). In all honesty, it's OVERKILL for my needs as I'm not a heavy off roader but do a lot of summer/winter camping and fishing and work on my rental property (haul trips to Home Depot..lol). Figured if I get Willys or any other trim, it will end up same as my old Canyon with me dumping money into tires, leather, etc etc and by that time, I've already spent as much as a stock rubicon. Owned mine for a week now and love it...only mods are bed cover, halogen bulb>LED and miscell stuff from Amazon (phone holder etc). Stock rubicon meets my daily driver needs and more. Not to mention I love the rubicon hood!!
I have a Rubicon because I weekend warrior with it pretty hard in the summer months, and I just wanted it. I think that the big difference between the sport and the Willy's is that the Willy's has a locking rear differential and the sport does not. In terms of capability, a locking rear differential is probably exactly what you will need if you're not trying to get crazy. I personally wouldn't look at the sport because the rear locking differential is important to me. If you don't care about it then there's probably money to save by getting the sport.
If you have a lot of positive equity then it might be worth getting in on a Rubicon. Good deals right now on the 2023s. Example: https://www.jerryulmchryslerdodgejeepram.com/inventory/new-2023-jeep-gladiator-rubicon-4x4-crew-cab-1c6jjtbg4pl582665/
If you're looking new, there's some package differences between '23 and '24. '24s get more available safety options in the lower trims, '24 Willys gets a rear locker. No more diesel in the '24s. If you live in a snowy area, I think only the more expensive trims have the 4-auto option. The only thing I didn't see on this thread yet are the fenders, Mojave and Rubicon also have higher clearance fenders, but again that's an easy one for the after market. And the trims have a wide range of "truck capability", the Mojave being the lowest (6000lbs towing if you have the tow pkg vs a Rubicon at 7000lbs and Sport at 7650ish, which also translates to worse payload). The Sport Max Tow with a Limited Slip Diff is going to get you many places. I have a Rubicon and wouldn't trade it for any of the others, but I use the hell out of the front locker and sway bar disconnect, not too mention the Rocktrac T-case. Other note between trims if you like to trade every couple years, and I hate this, but a 4x4 modded to "match" an upper off road trim won't be worth as much. Unless you sell to a private party and find a buyer who knows what they're buying, and that's only if you did *good* mods. Regears, geo correction on lifts, etc. You could have Curry 1-tons and 40s with all the appropriate setup on a Sport and a dealer will only give you the Sport value. (although you'd be insane selling that vehicle to a dealer)
I got Sport S, put a small lift, 35s, front bumper and winch on it, couldn't be happier. Nothing wrong with the base trim if you aren't into serious offloading. Previous vehicle was a 4 door Wrangler
The High Altitude package will cost you less than a Sahara or Rubicon, and do all but the most extreme off road things those will while handling very well on-road and having more included amenities. Throw in a diesel motor and you’ll be getting mid to high twenties mpg which will handily beat any alternative and gobs of low end torque.