Pulled the trigger on a 2016 JKU Sport about a year ago. I bought it already well upgraded with aftermarket off-road undercarriage, lift and 35” MT’s. I hit the trails just about every weekend and I absolutely love this rig. It’s super reliable and it will get me anywhere. No complaints..
Non of them with all that eletronic stuff is all that tough. That start stop crap on the JL is a drag. The tiny batter that operates that mess drains in a few days of not driving it and suckes down your starting battery. Makes it not very reliable in long times of camping without something to jump start it or something to keep it charged. Stupid idea. Well thats what we get for allowing a communist thing like the epa to exist in America. It seems like a good idea and would be if it weren't being weaponised by this criminal regime.
I literally cannot thank you enough for this video!!! I am about to purchase my first wrangler and was trying to find the best way to compare the two. While the new JL has a lot of great going for them (new instrument clusters and the awesome LED lighting options) the JK has the best look and what seems to be traditional aspects for me personally growing up in life where family and friends have had jeeps many times. Im not a fan of the on/off motor features in the JL and only hope the only choice isnt just a button feature to keep it off every time i enter my car if i went with the JL. I love the boxed look of the JK, even though I'm a curvy girl myself like the JL its just not me. THANK you for the review video! Now to find the perfect one out there for me!
I just got the JL 3.6 and am averaging 21mpg combined driving in a city that has tons of hills. Extremely happy with it. The start/stop can be turned off.
Sorin Stavar it has cool tricks. I have a feeling the jeep truck will be a lot like it. I’m not happy with fender lights or the crappy tail light sensors. By the way look up teraflex video. If you park to close the jl won’t move because of sensors. You have to put in 4 low to turn them off!
The diesel is going to be beautiful, but the price will be ugly. Expect the diesel to be, at minimum, a $5,000 option. That will put a Sport into the upper $40k price range and the Sahara/Rubicon at near $60k. Likewise, the diesel will not be available with the manual, so price of the 8-speed will have to be factored into that as well.
Im going with JL, easy. I am a creature that wants comfort. I work my @$$ off and the last thing i want is to have a rough ride home. Gimme the heated seats, sweet audio, freedom top, n all.
For years never thought the JK was very impressive with the look unless modified with aftermarket accessories and so forth, but when JL hit the market and the whole new revision and design of the Jeep I was in shock and that's when I went out and bought a jeep.I did test drive both very thoughtfuly and I made up my mind for the JL.
I traded in a JK sport for the JL rubi today and had the best day of my life. Just an amazing awesome piece of kit with a massive reduction to the wrangler compromises (road noise, INTERIOR, highway handling, leaky roof, windshield visibility, side airbags,) lots of technology for sure which I was definitely on the fence about but it is all very solid and very nice and the package is in basically every new chrysler so its not like its never been tested or is hard to come by if something happens to it down the road (ok your TJ doesnt have any of that 'crap' but its also got 200k miles on it so I hate to break it to you but a JL will be looking fine as hell when that thing is rusted out) . Drove it all day off road with the doors and top off and felt great after whereas my back was killing me in the jk after 5 hours of driving. Some of the options are pretty much insane for me but I'd rather have them in the car and done by jeep and tested by jeep rather than me doing it in my garage. I dont feel like i have to drop a bunch on mods either, its already nuts so I am just getting a gobi rack and light bar ($2k) but dont get me wrong, the LED lights on this thing are absolutely amazing. For me time is everything so a new rubi is and for a long time will be ready to go anywhere whereas my jk was in an out of the shop for issues with mods I did not perform (suspension issues with lift & tires and resulting issues from off roading with said problems) and needed a bunch of upgrades to get to where the rubi was going to start at. Its just built like a tank in comparison. If you want to go overlanding in this vehicle like me and you can afford this car then why the hell not make your life more comfortable, trip more reliable, ass more protected, and investment worth way more while driving one of the envys of the road!?. A random guy in front of me at safeway just bought my groceries today he was so stoked I got the only manual rubi for sale in nor cal this Easter weekend. Has your car, jeep or otherwise ever done that?!
I bought a 2018 Rubicon Recon JK at the same time that my wife bought a 2018 JLU. My Recon felt “tank-like” and the JLU felt lighter. She never took out off road and we would use it for long trips due to the better gas mileage. It just didn’t fit her short statue so she now has a Bronco Sport, which she really likes. I’m impressed with the 3 cylinder turbo and the great gas mileage. I have too much invested in my Recon and since it’s the last of the great JKs it will be in my garage for a long time to come.
My son’s JL spent more time at the dealers service dept. with a variety of problems but mostly electrical. He eventually tired of the continuous problems with it and sold it. My JK has required a new thermostat that cost $40, and a new gas cap that cost $12. It seems the more technology a vehicle has the more time it spends in the shop. JL’s are loaded with technology.
got the jeep bug recently now I'm obsessed....the jeep expert at the local ORW told me to get the JL without hesitation and he owns a JK lol on the hunt for a JLU Willys
i know this is an older video but thanks. i just got a jl sport s. i've had a tj and two jk's. i'm really liking the jl after 2500 miles. great explanation between the two
Dylan Foster please be more specific as to which BMW and Mercedes model comes with the same off-road capabilities as a Jeep for the money and which ones have insane maintenance/repair cost because of their badging and being imported? Really old how people want to constantly talk about a German vehicle costing the same as an American one. But, never mention the cost of owning those vehicles.
@@dylnfstr not true maybe a base model and that right there shows people u can only afford entry level foriegn which means u trying to be rich broke boy
Went shopping to trade my '06 Rubicon in last fall. Loved it, but the rust and OPDA issues just killed it. I compared the JK/JLs. Just on looks, the JK looks more classic as shown above. JL has more car/SUV like quality, the grill, turn signals, sculpted panels..look like they belong on a car, not a Wrangler.. JLs sloped windshield gives it a mini van type look. But comparing the quality, the plastic fenders and JL door handles are very flimsy and cheap. I went back/forth bending them and the handle made a cracking sound! I do like the improved MPG. The huge price increase was the killer. I was able to get a JK for so much less. If I could, I'd go back in time and buy a new TJ, but do like the JK because it has more of the simple/classic look. I don't like the fancy electronic crap, but the JL has 10X more. A start button!!, insane pricing!.assisted passing,..I pass.
Great review and much appreciated. I just bought a 2018 Sport S that is fully loaded and love it. I actually love the auto turn off option and after 500 miles average 23 miles per gallon. It is my first Jeep and the only reason i have not bought one previously was because of how rough they road, especially if it were to be a commuter vehicle which mine is. The JL runs so much smoother than previous models. I can openly admit I still have a lot to learn about my Wrangler, but I am loving it so far. Very comfortable ride as I picked this over the Range Rover Evoque but learned that Range Rovers are really not very good vehicles and unreliable.
I've had a YJ, TJ, and a JK 2009. Trading it in for a new 2018 JK next week. People who have been in the Jeep culture for awhile absolute hate the JL because it's so far from a Jeep.
Yes, they stopped making them but they are still available at dealers until they are gone. I picked up my JKU Rubicon Recon 2018 a month ago. I'm guessing in six months you won't be able to find them anywhere, at least new from a dealer.
As much as I prefer the stying of the JL, the reality of suburban Canadian life with the rare excursion to northern cottages, make the JK a preferable daily driver for my family’s life
@@MrNaomitherealtor I agree. I actually meant JK. I have a JK and I have a JK not a JL. I prefer the simplicity of the JK. Mine is a 2011, which I’d only upgrade to a 2015-2018
1) Don't care for the raked grille of the JL but do think it looks more complete and integrated as opposed to the JK. As a JK Rubicon owner, I always felt that the grille was just a plastic afterthought, especially when you look where the grille meets the wheel well. 2) Like the LED lights of the JK and the throwback nod to the CJ with the pinched 1st and 7th grille slots. 3) Don't care for the fenders on the JL. Looks too European. Prefer the simple turn signals of the JK. 4) Like the JL's ease of folding, but when would I ever really need to? 5) HATE HATE HATE the side vent. I get the function. Just don't like the look. 6) Don't understand why Jeep can't put a hood lock from the driver's foot well like every other vehicle in the world. Keep the latches, but for security put a hood lock release in the interior. 7) JL's taillights need to go. Look like they borrowed them from a Fiat, I mean Jeep Renegade. JK's taillights look more like the classic lights of a CJ. 8) JL interior (touchscreen) is fine for a mall crawler or daily driver, which is where 90% of the Wranglers sold will spend their time, but adding more and more electronics is a liability to those who use it their Wranglers offroad or in inclement conditions. 9) I hate start-stop. Sorry JL. 10) Axels... NOPE to the JL. Going backwards here Jeep. Dana 35 standard with a complicated two piece axel and free wheel system??? Well... Good video but I'm keeping my '16 JK Rubicon.
To be fair, the large touchscreen was a US government regulation, not necessarily an attempt to soften the Wrangler. The new axle thing is a Sahara thing where most won't go offroad, and the product manager of the JL stated that 44s will still be used on the Unlimiteds. I understand your other concerns though, I don't care for the start stop either and I'm sure there's any easy way to turn it off like the newer Cherokees.
The JL's touchscreen is actually much more durable and water resistant compared to other vehicle's touchscreens. And secondly, you'll need a screen for the rear-view camera. Thirdly, you don't have to purchase the rear-view camera nor the touchscreen if you don't want to.
First Jeep was an '81 CJ-5. LOVED IT, wish I still had it. Now I have the '18 JL LOVE IT TOO! I went with the rag top because I traded in an '06 wrangle sport (hard top) and it took 2-1/2 strong men to remove it. My '18 "rag top" I can take off or put on ALONE in about 10-15 min. Great comparison, enjoyed and learned a few things! Thanx and JEEP ON!
Nice info. I am astonished that they didn't compare the 2018 JK vs 2018 JL since Jeep made both versions in 2018. That would have been way more useful.
JKs honestly didn't vary much throughout the years, especially 2013 through 2018. If we would have found a 2018 JK for the video instead of using this 2015, you wouldn't see many differences. The more important thing is that both are Sahara model Wranglers (both with leather, painted fender flares, "luxury" options compared to Sport models). -Zach
Great video. About to buy my first Jeep and been looking hard at both. I believe I'll go with the JK. JL just has too many things I don't like. No one thing is a deal breaker as I'll be heavily modifying it, but add them all together and yeah, I'll go with the JK.
I got a 2008 h3 alpha and people are always calling it a jeep and I tell them no it's a hummer it has the iconic hummer 7 slot grill, the jeep just has seven slots.
I was about to finally upgrade my old JKU on a new JLU, dropping an extra 25 to 30k on it... well, ended up doing a hemi swap and keeping the JKU, as it already had a lot of stuff including dyna pro rocks and synergy suspension, so far not regretted.
The JL was a much needed change in both comfort and form. It can do everything the JK and then some so I’m confused as to why it’s getting hate other than “change is bad hurr durr”.
Chris Dobbs when it comes to jeeps change is are to except. That's why we bought a 18' Sahara JK and the $5,000.00 price tag difference. We Loved the JL too
Nice review! I've noticed that no one else has noticed (or mentioned) that the front fender flares sweep back towards the body, vs cutting straight back inwards, (you can see this clearly at 7:39) in what I'm guessing is an attempt to improve aerodynamics. I don't love the look of that feature, but it's not a huge deal. I'm wondering how the aftermarket will address this as well as the side marker.
Bleepinjeep did a review of the JL a while back when Matt's wife bought one. I would highly recommend that video as he addresses an issue with the front fender flares that you may not like.
Yea but as soon as I get it I’m gonna swap the bumpers, swap the fenders, I can put aftermarket hood bumpers, upgrade the headlights, put a lift and bigger tires, and the list goes on. That’s the great thing about a wrangler, time to ply and swap and mod. And my 50cal and rocket launcher mount goes well on the JK along with my clamp for old glory to wave off of the back.
The "jelly beaning" of the wrangler has begun. before I get flamed, I am not talking about performance, I am talking about looks, the 4 door JL looks an awful lot like the latest version of the Liberty/Nitro. With the angle of the windshield, the grill coming from the new cherokee, the removable rear windows and retractable center section of the hard top, the lower height between the fenders and top of hood, all looks like they plan to merge the 4 door wrangler and liberty lines. hopefully they don't decide to turn the 2 door into a chevy x-90 look-a-like... :(
I see the resemblance you mention. It is unclear to me how to make a Wrangler that gets better gas mileage without making it more aerodynamic. Of course, a more efficient drivetrain and lightweight components must play a role as well, but cost is a factor, so they're not going to make the whole body of AL and the chassis out of Ti, due to costs, so little bits here and there...
To be fair, with the grilles, the TJs had a slight bend towards the top as well, just not as much as the JL. As someone whose mom drives a 2015 Cherokee Trailhawk, I dont think that's where the inspiration for the grille bend comes from.
You're kidding, right? Jeep is smart enough to keep the Wrangler around until it stops selling. They know that people buy them for their "classic" styling (which they still have) and off road abilities. Even the thought of them merging the two lines together is ridiculous.
I would recommend next time you do a compare video to sue the same model with similar options. Looking at the JL i think i'll keep my JK for now till i see a real reason to change
This video helped out allot about the difference between the JL and JK. I’m looking at a Rubicon unlimited after I sell my 2dr Mercedes V8. I have a son on the way and the Benz won’t cut it as a family vehicle. I’m more worried about the suspension not looking for soft bouncy ride that will give my son motion sickness.
Great vid. For the money, I'll stick to the JK......plus let them work the bugs out of the first year or two. A diesel or 4-turbo may make it interesting.
FAD is one of the craziest designs I have seen. The spider gears are always spinning; seems like that could become a wear items pretty fast. JKs are definitely better from. My perspective…but I actually off-road my Jeep.
I decided to purchased a Jeep Gladiator Rubicon because the JL requires the E-Torque with Automatic Transmission unless you opt for the manual. I've owned many Jeeps and now find I'm satisfied with the Gladiator as it sis great for hauling yard supplies
Thanks for the in-depth look. One question I can't find a review on: did Jeep change the rear portion of the hardtop roof at all? Is it lighter like the front freedom panels are? Are there any added hand-holds or things like on the front doors to make it easier for someone to grab the roof and remove it? Is it any easier to take off than the JKU hardtops? So much of the design improvements on the JL seem to address small details like this (the front doors swinging forward and creating dents, etc) but no one talked about the hardtop.
Owner of a 2017 Sahara. I don’t like most of the changes at all. I do like the lighter doors and ease of removing the freedom panels for sure. But the changes to the body style are not always appealing to me.
Bumpers on the JL are also ALL plastic as opposed to the JK that has some steel. I too hate the auto-on auto-off feature and you can turn it off but that is per drive. Once you turn off the car, the next ride the auto-off will re-engage and you need to remember to turn it off again...every time. Just got the 2d JK Willys. Would have considered the JL if they had released the diesel already.
Which are you voting for? The Wrangler JL or JK?
Subscribe for more 2018 JL Wrangler videos: terrain.jp/SubscribeXTyt
Love the new JL, tho price in Australia will be way, way to much for me to buy !!
JK forever JL too much gadgets that on a heavy trail can be fail, JL is more for city and light trail on my point of view
JL even though I love the JK too
Honest review well donr. But I'll stick to my Jk. To much gadget on the JL there going after the yuppie market so they can go mall crawling
Joseph Godin, I agree with you
Jk is so simple and classic, but I love the updates with the JL!
Pulled the trigger on a 2016 JKU Sport about a year ago. I bought it already well upgraded with aftermarket off-road undercarriage, lift and 35” MT’s. I hit the trails just about every weekend and I absolutely love this rig. It’s super reliable and it will get me anywhere. No complaints..
Such a terrific comparison review. As a newbie, very much appreciated!!
I want the JK exterior with the JL interior.
Jason Green agree 💯
Jason Green Me too!
Agreed...
Still love the jk
Yuck. Life is hard enough without owning a Jeep mate
@Philip Noah yuck. Shitbox
If you skip forward 15 seconds, three times in a row starting at 19:45, he’ll say transfer case each time 😂
I'm in love with my 2018 JK.
How much did you get your 2018 jk for?
@@makeanaveragemanrich1284 41k in Cali for the altitude Sahara upgraded package. 8 miles out the dealership :)
Two in a half years later and I'm still in love lol
@@karinachavez2425 thanks .
Jk stops at 2017 JL starts at 2018
JK looks more durable and old school jeep
because it is, only reason i like the new JLs is because of more engine options and stuff like that. they are harder to work on then the JKs too.
They both kinda suk at being reliable aint it?
@Topgun Productions Cant speak for the JK but I love my JL it’s amazing imo I think it just depends on you and what your needs are
I agree i like the look of the JK better it just looks classic.
Non of them with all that eletronic stuff is all that tough. That start stop crap on the JL is a drag. The tiny batter that operates that mess drains in a few days of not driving it and suckes down your starting battery. Makes it not very reliable in long times of camping without something to jump start it or something to keep it charged. Stupid idea. Well thats what we get for allowing a communist thing like the epa to exist in America. It seems like a good idea and would be if it weren't being weaponised by this criminal regime.
I literally cannot thank you enough for this video!!! I am about to purchase my first wrangler and was trying to find the best way to compare the two. While the new JL has a lot of great going for them (new instrument clusters and the awesome LED lighting options) the JK has the best look and what seems to be traditional aspects for me personally growing up in life where family and friends have had jeeps many times. Im not a fan of the on/off motor features in the JL and only hope the only choice isnt just a button feature to keep it off every time i enter my car if i went with the JL. I love the boxed look of the JK, even though I'm a curvy girl myself like the JL its just not me. THANK you for the review video! Now to find the perfect one out there for me!
if you press the off button for the motor it stays off, you dont need to press the button every time you start the car!
Not crazy about the changes. Glad I've got the JK.
I just got the JL 3.6 and am averaging 21mpg combined driving in a city that has tons of hills. Extremely happy with it. The start/stop can be turned off.
I have a JK 3.6 and averaging the same. Where's this awesome MPG savings the redesign was supposed to address?
I like the JLs front grille but I might buy the JK
I think the JL looks better (but I started with TJs so it reminds me of those), but I love my JK.
I like my 2 door jk but the rumor of the truck with diesel will definitely peak my interest. I like the jl but not enough to trade my baby in
Chris Luce same
I have determined the new Jeep truck will be my dd and my 2dr jk will be my off road.
Chris Luce I have 2.8 diesel. It is awesome. JL is Frankenstein ugly. This is all they can?
Sorin Stavar it has cool tricks. I have a feeling the jeep truck will be a lot like it. I’m not happy with fender lights or the crappy tail light sensors. By the way look up teraflex video. If you park to close the jl won’t move because of sensors. You have to put in 4 low to turn them off!
I believe those proximity sensors are an option for the vehicle as well. Not sure how many will get them.
JL looks good but not enough to trade in the JK. I will wait to see the diesel and cost.
The diesel is going to be beautiful, but the price will be ugly. Expect the diesel to be, at minimum, a $5,000 option. That will put a Sport into the upper $40k price range and the Sahara/Rubicon at near $60k. Likewise, the diesel will not be available with the manual, so price of the 8-speed will have to be factored into that as well.
I'd rather just regear my jk 3.6 for that price, and keep my upgrades which won't be compatible.
James Lape I hear ya.
Im going with JL, easy. I am a creature that wants comfort. I work my @$$ off and the last thing i want is to have a rough ride home. Gimme the heated seats, sweet audio, freedom top, n all.
Jl is still going to be a rough ride. It's not a Mercedes, it's still a Jeep.
Tfdcffree433 h hỏi
Darren Griffith you act like the JL or JK is rough, the jl is very nice and smooth driving and JK is perfectly fine also but JL is very smooth
Jeep and comfort should not be in the same sentence
The jk has all those options too. Lol
For years never thought the JK was very impressive with the look unless modified with aftermarket accessories and so forth, but when JL hit the market and the whole new revision and design of the Jeep I was in shock and that's when I went out and bought a jeep.I did test drive both very thoughtfuly and I made up my mind for the JL.
I am just glad you are finally coming out.
I just got my first Wrangler ever and I LOVE IT! 2020 Sahara so I'm team JL.
loving the JL a lot
Hi I watch your videos and I’m a subscriber
Best video comparison I’ve seen...
The smiley front bumper on the JL is cracking me up!
JL all the way.
I traded in a JK sport for the JL rubi today and had the best day of my life. Just an amazing awesome piece of kit with a massive reduction to the wrangler compromises (road noise, INTERIOR, highway handling, leaky roof, windshield visibility, side airbags,) lots of technology for sure which I was definitely on the fence about but it is all very solid and very nice and the package is in basically every new chrysler so its not like its never been tested or is hard to come by if something happens to it down the road (ok your TJ doesnt have any of that 'crap' but its also got 200k miles on it so I hate to break it to you but a JL will be looking fine as hell when that thing is rusted out) . Drove it all day off road with the doors and top off and felt great after whereas my back was killing me in the jk after 5 hours of driving. Some of the options are pretty much insane for me but I'd rather have them in the car and done by jeep and tested by jeep rather than me doing it in my garage. I dont feel like i have to drop a bunch on mods either, its already nuts so I am just getting a gobi rack and light bar ($2k) but dont get me wrong, the LED lights on this thing are absolutely amazing. For me time is everything so a new rubi is and for a long time will be ready to go anywhere whereas my jk was in an out of the shop for issues with mods I did not perform (suspension issues with lift & tires and resulting issues from off roading with said problems) and needed a bunch of upgrades to get to where the rubi was going to start at. Its just built like a tank in comparison. If you want to go overlanding in this vehicle like me and you can afford this car then why the hell not make your life more comfortable, trip more reliable, ass more protected, and investment worth way more while driving one of the envys of the road!?. A random guy in front of me at safeway just bought my groceries today he was so stoked I got the only manual rubi for sale in nor cal this Easter weekend. Has your car, jeep or otherwise ever done that?!
You sound like a pussy, go buy a prius
I like the analog gauges in the JK over the digital JL's
Thanks for a very informative video, I just bought a 2018 JK.
I bought a 2018 Rubicon Recon JK at the same time that my wife bought a 2018 JLU. My Recon felt “tank-like” and the JLU felt lighter. She never took out off road and we would use it for long trips due to the better gas mileage. It just didn’t fit her short statue so she now has a Bronco Sport, which she really likes. I’m impressed with the 3 cylinder turbo and the great gas mileage. I have too much invested in my Recon and since it’s the last of the great JKs it will be in my garage for a long time to come.
My son’s JL spent more time at the dealers service dept. with a variety of problems but mostly electrical. He eventually tired of the continuous problems with it and sold it.
My JK has required a new thermostat that cost $40, and a new gas cap that cost $12. It seems the more technology a vehicle has the more time it spends in the shop. JL’s are loaded with technology.
i love and i need the JK.
got the jeep bug recently now I'm obsessed....the jeep expert at the local ORW told me to get the JL without hesitation and he owns a JK lol
on the hunt for a JLU Willys
I’ll keep my JK over getting a JL. Too much to go wrong on the JL.
Not if you get a manual sport JL
The answer is obvious, the TJ
The TJ was the last of the true jeeps! Love my 03 Rubicon would never trade it for one of these Barbie doll jeeps
As a JK owner... I agree with ya! There's something "genuine" about the TJ.
JeepinDan the perfect answer! I love my Tj and will never get rid of it.
JeepinDan sorry... TJ is good, but I will always love my YJ 4.0 5sp.
I like my 2015 2 door Rubicon, but I’d prefer the LJ. I’d certainly never buy a 4 door Sahara JL or JK.
JK ALL DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!
i know this is an older video but thanks. i just got a jl sport s. i've had a tj and two jk's. i'm really liking the jl after 2500 miles. great explanation between the two
11:18 Sounds like Jeep wants to have that G-Wagon door thud when it closes
Nice jeep but crazy expensive.
John Smith no BMW nd Benz is expensive
I could buy a BMW or Benz for the same price as a rubicon.
Dylan Foster please be more specific as to which BMW and Mercedes model comes with the same off-road capabilities as a Jeep for the money and which ones have insane maintenance/repair cost because of their badging and being imported?
Really old how people want to constantly talk about a German vehicle costing the same as an American one. But, never mention the cost of owning those vehicles.
@@anthonyfootball80 Congratulations on making the dumbest comment on UA-cam.
@@dylnfstr not true maybe a base model and that right there shows people u can only afford entry level foriegn which means u trying to be rich broke boy
JK all the way … JL is much more like a car with design/concept …
I’m in debate mode currently to decide which Jeep to buy. This video is exactly what I wanted to see to help me decide. Thank you
Went shopping to trade my '06 Rubicon in last fall. Loved it, but the rust and OPDA issues just killed it. I compared the JK/JLs. Just on looks, the JK looks more classic as shown above. JL has more car/SUV like quality, the grill, turn signals, sculpted panels..look like they belong on a car, not a Wrangler.. JLs sloped windshield gives it a mini van type look. But comparing the quality, the plastic fenders and JL door handles are very flimsy and cheap. I went back/forth bending them and the handle made a cracking sound! I do like the improved MPG. The huge price increase was the killer. I was able to get a JK for so much less. If I could, I'd go back in time and buy a new TJ, but do like the JK because it has more of the simple/classic look. I don't like the fancy electronic crap, but the JL has 10X more. A start button!!, insane pricing!.assisted passing,..I pass.
A TJ with a JL interior would be the ultimate jeep
Yesssss
LOVE the Original Look of JK.
Still driving my 07 2door JK. She’s got 230,000 miles on her. Still runs and drives really well. I’ll keep her.
Small editing mistake on 5:56
Great review and much appreciated. I just bought a 2018 Sport S that is fully loaded and love it. I actually love the auto turn off option and after 500 miles average 23 miles per gallon. It is my first Jeep and the only reason i have not bought one previously was because of how rough they road, especially if it were to be a commuter vehicle which mine is. The JL runs so much smoother than previous models. I can openly admit I still have a lot to learn about my Wrangler, but I am loving it so far. Very comfortable ride as I picked this over the Range Rover Evoque but learned that Range Rovers are really not very good vehicles and unreliable.
Owned a modded 2015 JKUR for over 5 years. Now own a 2020 modded JLUR.
I will take the JL all day long every day.
My first jeep, purchased a 2018 Sahara JL ! Love it !
Congrats on the first Jeep! -Zach
So glad i bought a 2018 JK!
We just bought one too
I've had a YJ, TJ, and a JK 2009. Trading it in for a new 2018 JK next week. People who have been in the Jeep culture for awhile absolute hate the JL because it's so far from a Jeep.
i’m so jealous hopefully i’m able to get one soon
Didnt they stop producing the JK?
Yes, they stopped making them but they are still available at dealers until they are gone. I picked up my JKU Rubicon Recon 2018 a month ago. I'm guessing in six months you won't be able to find them anywhere, at least new from a dealer.
As much as I prefer the stying of the JL, the reality of suburban Canadian life with the rare excursion to northern cottages, make the JK a preferable daily driver for my family’s life
JK IS BEST THE NEW JL LOOKS WEAK COMPARE WITH THE JK
@@MrNaomitherealtor
I agree. I actually meant JK. I have a JK and I have a JK not a JL. I prefer the simplicity of the JK. Mine is a 2011, which I’d only upgrade to a 2015-2018
1) Don't care for the raked grille of the JL but do think it looks more complete and integrated as opposed to the JK. As a JK Rubicon owner, I always felt that the grille was just a plastic afterthought, especially when you look where the grille meets the wheel well.
2) Like the LED lights of the JK and the throwback nod to the CJ with the pinched 1st and 7th grille slots.
3) Don't care for the fenders on the JL. Looks too European. Prefer the simple turn signals of the JK.
4) Like the JL's ease of folding, but when would I ever really need to?
5) HATE HATE HATE the side vent. I get the function. Just don't like the look.
6) Don't understand why Jeep can't put a hood lock from the driver's foot well like every other vehicle in the world. Keep the latches, but for security put a hood lock release in the interior.
7) JL's taillights need to go. Look like they borrowed them from a Fiat, I mean Jeep Renegade. JK's taillights look more like the classic lights of a CJ.
8) JL interior (touchscreen) is fine for a mall crawler or daily driver, which is where 90% of the Wranglers sold will spend their time, but adding more and more electronics is a liability to those who use it their Wranglers offroad or in inclement conditions.
9) I hate start-stop. Sorry JL.
10) Axels... NOPE to the JL. Going backwards here Jeep. Dana 35 standard with a complicated two piece axel and free wheel system???
Well... Good video but I'm keeping my '16 JK Rubicon.
To be fair, the large touchscreen was a US government regulation, not necessarily an attempt to soften the Wrangler. The new axle thing is a Sahara thing where most won't go offroad, and the product manager of the JL stated that 44s will still be used on the Unlimiteds. I understand your other concerns though, I don't care for the start stop either and I'm sure there's any easy way to turn it off like the newer Cherokees.
The JL's touchscreen is actually much more durable and water resistant compared to other vehicle's touchscreens. And secondly, you'll need a screen for the rear-view camera. Thirdly, you don't have to purchase the rear-view camera nor the touchscreen if you don't want to.
I'll take a JL sport and go from there... great coverage!
My question is will we have turn signals if we take off the finders on the JL?!
I’ll stick with JK... I used to thing the JKs were too fancy, but the JL is just ridiculous.
Too fancy? There's hardly anything luxury in a Jeep Wrangler compared to other vehicles in its price range.
You know you can just get the Sport! No one is forcing anyone to get the Sahara...
First Jeep was an '81 CJ-5. LOVED IT, wish I still had it. Now I have the '18 JL LOVE IT TOO! I went with the rag top because I traded in an '06 wrangle sport (hard top) and it took 2-1/2 strong men to remove it. My '18 "rag top" I can take off or put on ALONE in about 10-15 min. Great comparison, enjoyed and learned a few things! Thanx and JEEP ON!
Glad to hear you're loving the new JL, Bradley! Thanks for watching and happy Jeeping! -Zach
Nice info. I am astonished that they didn't compare the 2018 JK vs 2018 JL since Jeep made both versions in 2018. That would have been way more useful.
JKs honestly didn't vary much throughout the years, especially 2013 through 2018. If we would have found a 2018 JK for the video instead of using this 2015, you wouldn't see many differences. The more important thing is that both are Sahara model Wranglers (both with leather, painted fender flares, "luxury" options compared to Sport models). -Zach
Jk still be the best jeep wrangler...my opinion!
Chester ت I got a jk, and I went be trading it in anytime soon, gonna ride it til it rusts out!
SPNKr02 im own a jk O|||||||O...(Jk Sahara CRD)
Wonderful choice in vehicle I must say
Great video. About to buy my first Jeep and been looking hard at both. I believe I'll go with the JK. JL just has too many things I don't like. No one thing is a deal breaker as I'll be heavily modifying it, but add them all together and yeah, I'll go with the JK.
If you're going big and don't care for newer-car creature comforts, a JK will be a great option! -Zach
I wish they would bring back the LJ
Best comparison on UA-cam
Thanks for the love, Jay! Means a lot! -Zach
Really tempting to trade in my modded 13' ... I really like what they've done. Gonna hold out for the diesel though and see what thats like.
Still got my ‘13 JK Sahara, love it!
still love my jk, classic, vintage and traditional interior and also exterior i think looks the best for a jeep wrangler.
Thank you for being so thorough on the important things!
Love them both. I’m considering trading in my Cherokee Trailhawk for a jk or Jl. What I love about a wrangler is how personalized you can get it 🙌🔥.
Wranglers are pretty sick! Take one for a test ride if you have the change to see if you like them! -Zach
Well done comparison.
The fender vent is actually designed to eliminate the hood-flutter.
I got a 2008 h3 alpha and people are always calling it a jeep and I tell them no it's a hummer it has the iconic hummer 7 slot grill, the jeep just has seven slots.
I own a JK and a JL. I like the JK more, the JL doesn't really solve the problems I have with my JK. The JK may go down as the best Jeep ever made.
I was about to finally upgrade my old JKU on a new JLU, dropping an extra 25 to 30k on it... well, ended up doing a hemi swap and keeping the JKU, as it already had a lot of stuff including dyna pro rocks and synergy suspension, so far not regretted.
Sounds like a good alternative!! Can't beat a V8. 😁 -Zach
The JK is much more rugged on the outside, especially the bumper where if you got a scratch you just swap it out and viola
The JL was a much needed change in both comfort and form. It can do everything the JK and then some so I’m confused as to why it’s getting hate other than “change is bad hurr durr”.
Chris Dobbs when it comes to jeeps change is are to except. That's why we bought a 18' Sahara JK and the $5,000.00 price tag difference. We Loved the JL too
AWESOME, MADE THE GRILL MORE Historically correct!!!
Nice review! I've noticed that no one else has noticed (or mentioned) that the front fender flares sweep back towards the body, vs cutting straight back inwards, (you can see this clearly at 7:39) in what I'm guessing is an attempt to improve aerodynamics. I don't love the look of that feature, but it's not a huge deal. I'm wondering how the aftermarket will address this as well as the side marker.
Bleepinjeep did a review of the JL a while back when Matt's wife bought one. I would highly recommend that video as he addresses an issue with the front fender flares that you may not like.
Yea but as soon as I get it I’m gonna swap the bumpers, swap the fenders, I can put aftermarket hood bumpers, upgrade the headlights, put a lift and bigger tires, and the list goes on. That’s the great thing about a wrangler, time to ply and swap and mod. And my 50cal and rocket launcher mount goes well on the JK along with my clamp for old glory to wave off of the back.
Just got my black jl rubicon on friday
JL for sure. Love the new look.
JK is always my best friend
The JL doesn’t deserve it price
With around $25k in accessories on my JK that won't transfer to the JL, I'll be sticking with my JK.
So JK is done in 2017?
The "jelly beaning" of the wrangler has begun. before I get flamed, I am not talking about performance, I am talking about looks, the 4 door JL looks an awful lot like the latest version of the Liberty/Nitro. With the angle of the windshield, the grill coming from the new cherokee, the removable rear windows and retractable center section of the hard top, the lower height between the fenders and top of hood, all looks like they plan to merge the 4 door wrangler and liberty lines. hopefully they don't decide to turn the 2 door into a chevy x-90 look-a-like... :(
I see the resemblance you mention. It is unclear to me how to make a Wrangler that gets better gas mileage without making it more aerodynamic. Of course, a more efficient drivetrain and lightweight components must play a role as well, but cost is a factor, so they're not going to make the whole body of AL and the chassis out of Ti, due to costs, so little bits here and there...
To be fair, with the grilles, the TJs had a slight bend towards the top as well, just not as much as the JL. As someone whose mom drives a 2015 Cherokee Trailhawk, I dont think that's where the inspiration for the grille bend comes from.
You're kidding, right? Jeep is smart enough to keep the Wrangler around until it stops selling. They know that people buy them for their "classic" styling (which they still have) and off road abilities. Even the thought of them merging the two lines together is ridiculous.
Craig Schoon I thought the same thing
I would recommend next time you do a compare video to sue the same model with similar options. Looking at the JL i think i'll keep my JK for now till i see a real reason to change
You nailed it.
Great comparison. Had to know, but glad I got my ‘18 JK Sport. Minimalism just fits my Jeep passion. Thanks for the vid!
Thanks for watching, Adam! The Sport model JL's are still pretty bare bones too outside of the back-up camera and radio though! -Zach
Now that the JL has been out a while I wonder how many people still think the JK looks better?
This video helped out allot about the difference between the JL and JK. I’m looking at a Rubicon unlimited after I sell my 2dr Mercedes V8. I have a son on the way and the Benz won’t cut it as a family vehicle. I’m more worried about the suspension not looking for soft bouncy ride that will give my son motion sickness.
Glad I got my JK last year
I wasn’t impressed with the JL. So I got me a 2018 JK freedom edition and I’m loving it. JL looks more like a lexus.
Great vid. For the money, I'll stick to the JK......plus let them work the bugs out of the first year or two. A diesel or 4-turbo may make it interesting.
FAD is one of the craziest designs I have seen. The spider gears are always spinning; seems like that could become a wear items pretty fast. JKs are definitely better from. My perspective…but I actually off-road my Jeep.
I decided to purchased a Jeep Gladiator Rubicon because the JL requires the E-Torque with Automatic Transmission unless you opt for the manual. I've owned many Jeeps and now find I'm satisfied with the Gladiator as it sis great for hauling yard supplies
Nice, John! Hope you're still loving it! Thanks for watching! -Zach
I only want a JL that leaks like my JK. Surprised that wasn’t addressed. Did Jeep do anything about it?
Jl is $2-3k more than the JK. The question is if you took a JK and put 3000 into it after market, which would be better then?
Thanks for the in-depth look. One question I can't find a review on: did Jeep change the rear portion of the hardtop roof at all? Is it lighter like the front freedom panels are? Are there any added hand-holds or things like on the front doors to make it easier for someone to grab the roof and remove it? Is it any easier to take off than the JKU hardtops? So much of the design improvements on the JL seem to address small details like this (the front doors swinging forward and creating dents, etc) but no one talked about the hardtop.
The vertical windows are awesome. No snow collection.
How well does the 4auto tc work? Does it go to 4wd when detecting slip and how quickly?
Owner of a 2017 Sahara. I don’t like most of the changes at all. I do like the lighter doors and ease of removing the freedom panels for sure. But the changes to the body style are not always appealing to me.
Do you think the steering is a better then the JK? I drove a 2 door jk rubicon and it was very loose and it takes a little while to get use to.
I noticed one difference that was not mentioned. on the back, the JL spare sits a little lower and wiper is mounted on bottom of glass.
My vote is the CJ!
Saw the JLs at the dealership and thought I liked them. I was wrong. JL looks like a Liberty. JK is just so much better and "Jeep-like".
Bumpers on the JL are also ALL plastic as opposed to the JK that has some steel. I too hate the auto-on auto-off feature and you can turn it off but that is per drive. Once you turn off the car, the next ride the auto-off will re-engage and you need to remember to turn it off again...every time. Just got the 2d JK Willys. Would have considered the JL if they had released the diesel already.
I think you need a few more XT logos. Sheesh.
Fantastic video though.