If you are looking for a midsize SUV that can handle both on-road and off-road adventures, you might be interested in the Jeep Wrangler. The Wrangler is one of the most iconic and versatile vehicles in the market, with a loyal fan base and a rich history. But the Wrangler is not a one-size-fits-all model, as it offers different trim levels and options to suit different needs and preferences. Two of the most popular and capable trim levels are the Sahara and the Rubicon, which have some similarities and differences that you should know before making your decision. In this article, we will compare and contrast the Jeep Sahara and the Rubicon based on their features, performance, pricing, and ratings.
What are the main features of the Sahara and the Rubicon?
The Sahara and the Rubicon are both four-door models that come with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. They also come with a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, or an optional six-speed manual transmission. Both models have a removable roof and doors, and a fold-down windshield, which give them a unique and fun character. However, they also have some distinctive features that set them apart.
The Sahara is more oriented towards on-road and light-duty off-road use, as it has a 3.21 axle ratio, a non-vented hood, and an 18-inch wheel suitable for on-road use. The Sahara also comes with a premium tan Sunrider soft top, which can be upgraded to a hardtop or a Sky One-Touch power top. The Sahara has cloth low-back bucket seats that come in black or black & tan color schemes, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Sahara also has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a wireless charging pad. The Sahara has several optional packages available, such as the Trailer Tow Electrical Group, the Safety Group, the Advanced Safety Group, the Radio & Premium Audio Group, the LED Lighting Group, and the Cold Weather Group.
The Rubicon is more oriented towards heavy-duty off-road use, as it has a 4.10 axle ratio, a dual-vented hood, and a 17-inch wheel with off-road specialized tires. The Rubicon also comes with a black Sunrider soft top, which can be upgraded to a hardtop or a Sky One-Touch power top. The Rubicon has premium cloth low-back bucket seats that are only available in black, and a leather-trimmed seat option. The Rubicon also has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, and a wireless charging pad. The Rubicon has some exclusive features, such as a lifted suspension, FOX shocks, a locking front and rear differential, a disconnecting sway bar, a Rock-Trac transfer case, and a Rubicon badge on the tailgate.
How do the Sahara and the Rubicon perform on-road and off-road?
The Sahara and the Rubicon both have impressive performance on-road and off-road, but they have some advantages and disadvantages depending on the terrain and the situation. The Sahara has a smoother and quieter ride on the road, thanks to its lower suspension, higher gear ratio, and all-season tires. The Sahara also has better fuel economy, with an estimated 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The Sahara can handle some off-road challenges, such as gravel, sand, and snow, but it might struggle with more difficult obstacles, such as rocks, mud, and steep inclines. The Sahara has a ground clearance of 10 inches, an approach angle of 41.4 degrees, a breakover angle of 21 degrees, and a departure angle of 36.1 degrees. The Sahara can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
The Rubicon has a rougher and louder ride on the road, due to its higher suspension, lower gear ratio, and off-road tires. The Rubicon also has worse fuel economy, with an estimated 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The Rubicon can handle any off-road challenge, thanks to its enhanced features, such as the locking differentials, the disconnecting sway bar, the Rock-Trac transfer case, and the skid plates. The Rubicon has a ground clearance of 10.8 inches, an approach angle of 43.9 degrees, a breakover angle of 22.6 degrees, and a departure angle of 37 degrees. The Rubicon can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
How much do the Sahara and the Rubicon cost and what are the ratings?
The Sahara and the Rubicon have different prices and ratings, depending on the source and the criteria. The Sahara starts at $38,645, while the Rubicon starts at $42,195. The Sahara has a higher resale value, as it retains 66.5% of its value after three years, and 58.3% after five years. The Rubicon has a lower resale value, as it retains 64.3% of its value after three years, and 55.6% after five years. The Sahara has a higher customer satisfaction rating, as it scores 84 out of 100, according to J.D. Power. The Rubicon has a lower customer satisfaction rating, as it scores 82 out of 100, according to J.D. Power. The Sahara and the Rubicon have the same safety rating, as they both receive four stars out of five from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and a Good rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Which one should you choose?
The Sahara and the Rubicon are both great choices for anyone looking for a midsize SUV that can handle both on-road and off-road adventures. They are both packed with features, performance, and versatility, but they also have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Sahara is more suitable for those who value comfort, economy, and style, and who only need occasional off-road capability. The Rubicon is more suitable for those who value capability, durability, and technology, and who need frequent off-road capability. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your personal taste and lifestyle. So, which one will you choose? The Sahara or the Rubicon? The choice is yours.