Should I get a JL or JT

I'm currently rocking a 2018 JLUR on 35s. I'm wanting to put a rooftop tent on it. I have a soft top, so I installed the GOBI Stealth roof rack. Between noise (from rack and soft top) and MPG decrease with with rack, tires, steel bumper, etc., I'm wondering if it would be better to trade in my JLUR for a JT Rubicon and run my rooftop tent on the bed so it's flush with the cab. Still will put at least 35s on. Is switching to the JT Rubicon worth the trade?
 
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For how it sounds like you're using your Jeep, I'd say yes. Granted, your MPG still won't be good as you'd prefer unless you get a diesel.
 
Totally depends on what you do with the vehicle, as in type of wheeling and everyday driving habits. The gladiator is indeed a truck and the Wrangler is indeed an SUV. (At least nowadays) Although they are both body on frame and both have solid axles front and rear, the biggest factor is the much longer wheelbase of the JT. Both are extremely capable and easily upgradable, but it all just comes down to personal preference. Factor in that wheelbase and MPG and decide what's best for your situation. The way I look at it, one is a pickup truck. 👍
 
kms695 said:
I'm currently rocking a 2018 JLUR on 35s. I'm wanting to put a rooftop tent on it. I have a soft top, so I installed the GOBI Stealth roof rack. Between noise (from rack and soft top) and MPG decrease with with rack, tires, steel bumper, etc., I'm wondering if it would be better to trade in my JLUR for a JT Rubicon and run my rooftop tent o the bed so it's flush with the cab. Still will put at least 35s on. Is switching to the JT Rubicon worth the trade?
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What mileage are you expecting? I run a JT with 4.11 gears and 35s and I get about 15-16 mph when I am careful with how I drive it. Most of the time, I have fun driving it and get around 13 or so.
 
I'm getting 15-16 on good day and unloaded, 12-13 with the roof rack on, but know that a RTT will hurt it even more. If it's possible to stay in the 15-17 when fully loaded, that would be great. I know it's a "which box is more aerodynamic" question, but every little bit counts!
 
WJCO said:
What mileage are you expecting? I run a JT with 4.11 gears and 35s and I get about 15-16 mph when I am careful with how I drive it. Most of the time, I have fun driving it and get around 13 or so.
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That's pretty good. I could totally see how a setup like that could be a lot of fun.
 
DirtHeadDavis said:
Totally depends on what you do with the vehicle, as in type of wheeling and everyday driving habits. The gladiator is indeed a truck and the Wrangler is indeed an SUV. (At least nowadays) Although they are both body on frame and both have solid axles front and rear, the biggest factor is the much longer wheelbase of the JT. Both are extremely capable and easily upgradable, but it all just comes down to personal preference. Factor in that wheelbase and MPG and decide what's best for your situation. The way I look at it, one is a pickup truck. 👍
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Agreed. It's a daily driver slowly being transformed into my weekend fun toy. I know I'll most likely need to go bigger (tires/lift) with the JT to compensate for breakover and departure angle, which fits into my eventual plan of going bigger. Bigger is (almost) always better :)
 
wayoflife said:
For how it sounds like you're using your Jeep, I'd say yes. Granted, your MPG still won't be good as you'd prefer unless you get a diesel.
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For, say the trails in Moab, do you find the JL's shorter wheelbase to be significantly more helpful?
 
kms695 said:
For, say the trails in Moab, do you find the JL's shorter wheelbase to be significantly more helpful?
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Depends on the trail. For the most part, the long wheel base of the Gladiator is a benefit. The only place where it has a harder time is climbing tall ledges due to the breakover angles. But really, there are go arounds on most of those obstacles.
 
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