2023 Jeep Wrangler vs Rubicon

The Great Jeep Debate: Jeep Wrangler vs Rubicon - Which Will You Choose?

The new 2023 Jeep Wrangler for sale is expected to start at around $30,000, which will get you the two-door Wrangler Sport. This base trim of the Jeep Wrangler features a six-speed manual transmission and a 3.6-liter V6 with 4WD. The Rubicon has long been considered the ultimate off-road incarnation of the Jeep Wrangler. As off-road ready as all Wranglers are, the Rubicon is on a higher level. 

Jeep Wrangler vs Rubicon: Comparing Trims

The Rubicon is the top off-road trim of the Jeep Wrangler. If you want a top-notch off-road vehicle without having to do too much aftermarket modification, the Rubicon is definitely the way to go. It includes off-road features like heavy-duty axles, electronic locking differential, and disconnecting sway bars. Inside, the Rubicon also offers some extra features such as a seven-inch touchscreen.

When comparing the other Jeep Wrangler models to the Rubicon, it depends on which trim you look at. For example, the base Sport offers a five-inch touchscreen, but the upgraded Sport S and Sahara trims have a seven-inch screen just like the Rubicon. Part-time, low-range 4WD is the standard offering on all Wrangler models, but you can get a full-time 4WD system on the Sahara and Rubicon. 

It’s possible to get many of the same extras on certain Jeep Wrangler trims. For example, the Sahara offers many available Rubicon options and includes complete driver assistance features. The Rubicon is also the highest-priced trim outside of the Altitude trims. It’s expected to start at around $45,195 MSRP. This is roughly $4,000 more than the Sahara trim right behind it. It’s also some $15,000 more than the base Sport. If you aren’t terribly interested in extra creature comforts and want to get into the Wrangler line at the most affordable price, then the Sport or Sport S are great choices. The further up in the trim ladder you go, it becomes harder to justify not going all the way for the Rubicon trim. This is especially true if you want extra off-road features.

If you want most of what the Rubicon offers and aren’t as concerned about top off-road ability, then the Sahara would be our pick for modern comforts with an iconic Jeep Wrangler marque. However, if you want the Rubicon, nothing less will do.

Jeep Wrangler vs Rubicon At Lockwood Motors

At Lockwood Motors, you can come to test-drive as many Jeep Wrangler trims as you want. The only way to know for sure which of these great Jeep SUVs will fit your thirst for adventure is by seeing them in person. As a family-owned and run dealership, Lockwood Motors is more about helping you find that perfect vehicle for your needs versus just making the sale.