2014 JKU Rubicon – 6 Month Review

After 6 months and over 14,000 miles, I’ve finally spent enough time in the seat of our 2014 JKU Rubicon to give a real and honest 6 month review. 

The question I’m asked the most is how I like the Jeep compared to the 200 Series, and it’s a tough question to answer because it’s like comparing a Kia Soul to a Mercedes S-Class. I mean lets be honest, the Jeep’s doors are held on with nylon and the Land Cruiser came with a fridge but not a freezer, get my point?

Now don’t get me wrong, I love the Jeep, but it’s nowhere near as comfortable or luxurious as the Land Cruiser. Yet on the flip side, I’ve taken the Jeep while still 100% stock though many obstacles that the Cruiser would consistently get stuck in. So at the end of the day I’ll tell you that they are completely different trucks, and that I miss having radar cruise control on a 500 mile haul to Vermont.

Okay, now before you start sending me hate mail and flaming me for comparing a 200 Series Land Cruiser to a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, I want you to know that I love the Jeep. Hands down it’s the most fun truck I’ve ever owned, and something about it makes you want to always drive with the windows down even when it’s 30 degrees outside and all you can hear are mud terrains.

Now let’s get down to the stats. I’ve owned the Jeep for a little over 6 months now, and in that time I’ve covered over 15,000 miles. She’s been everywhere from the mountains of North Carolina, to the rocky trails of Vermont, and has reliably served as my daily driver in between every one of our adventures.

 

In this time I’ve had Zero, yes read that again, Zero mechanical breakdowns, part failures, or warranty claims. I’m assuming I was lucky and my truck was not built by a union worker on a Monday nursing a hangover from downing way to much PBR.

The Jeep is actually pretty luxurious in fully loaded Rubicon trim. I’ve got heated seats, full leather, automatic climate control, and navigation, but you won’t ever forget that it’s a Jeep. One thing I don’t understand is why Jeep didn’t put any insulation on the factory hard top, or why the windows are only one touch down and not up (the bean counters must have won that one).

Since picking her up from the dealership, she’s been pretty heavily modified but I don’t think any of the handling or ride has suffered any ill effects (no death wobble bull shit here). With 35″ tires I don’t feel the need for a re-gear, and the truck still has plenty of power. I commute about 40 miles round trip everyday and get an average of 14.7 MPG (what did you expect?).

At the end of the day, I love this truck and I finally understand why guys say it’s a Jeep thing. I’m looking forward to putting on another 15,000 miles, and I’ll let you guys know if anything starts to fall apart.

Pros:

• Awesome off-road handling and performance (easily best in class).
• Factory front and rear lockers (Rubicon Trim).
• Everyone and their mother makes parts for a JK.

Cons:

• Makes a 2009 Honda Civic feel like the ultimate driving machine.
• Lots of wind noise, tire noise, jeep noise, etc. (roof racks and mud terrains don’t help)
• Your friend with a 4Runner will always ask if you want to go Jeepin.