Not many people are aware that a Rubicon is just one of the many trim models of a Jeep Wrangler. So, asking me what is the difference between a Rubicon and a Wrangler will need you to understand that a Rubicon is simply one of the many types of Jeep Wrangler.
The Jeep Wrangler is composed of Jeep models of military-looking SUVs, whereas Rubicon is one of its trim models. The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic model that started its production in World War 2 era, while the Rubicon was first introduced in 2003, where it immediately gained its reputation as an excellent off-road vehicle.
| Features | Jeep WranglerRubicon | Jeep Wrangler Sahara |
| Off-Road Capability | Extra Features for Extra Capability | Regular Off-Road Capability |
| Pricing | More Expensive | Less Expensive |
| 4WD System | Rock Trac System | Command Trac System |
| Axle Ratios | 4.10 | 3.21 |
| Front Axles | Dana 44 | Dana 30 |
| Differentials | Tru-lok Differentials | Standard |
| Sway Bar Disconnect | Electronic Front | Standard |
Table of Contents
The Difference Between a Rubicon and a Wrangler
As I have said earlier, the Jeep Wrangler is considered a general model that is composed of many trim models including the rubicon. But, we can still compare and differentiate the Rubicon and the other models of the Wrangler. Check the list below:
Pricing
One way to differentiate Rubicon from other models of Jeep Wrangler is the pricing. And I can confirm that the Rubicon’s price is much higher than the other models. To give you an overview, the Jeep Wrangler Sport is considered a bottom tier in all the models.
The Jeep Wrangler Sahara is regarded as a mid-tier, while the Rubicon is regarded as a top-tier. For a clearer view, according to the famous Jeep blog Offroading Pro, the MSRP of a Rubicon starts at $386954 while the Sahara is at $ 38645 and the Sport at $28295.
Vehicle Usage
The Jeep Wrangler as a vehicle is a popular off-road travel but is also great as a city car. Its versatility is very popular among Jeep enthusiasts, but its ability to be upgraded with other components makes it an excellent choice as a private vehicle.
On the other hand, the Rubicon is specially made for people who plan to go off-roading most of the time. If you are passionate about off-road adventures, the Rubicon is equipped with parts and components designed to improve off-road performance.
Among the parts that are included in the rubicon are disconnecting sway bars, stronger axles, lower transfer case gears, skid plates, and locking differentials. The Rubicon also features a more progressive tire which is perfect for off-road use.
More Than Just a Trim a Model
I have been repeating so many times that a Rubicon is a trim model of the Jeep Wrangler. But I can say that it is much more than that. I can compare the rubicon to a Jeep Wrangler Sahara with off-road-oriented additional features.
Having the Rubicon in your garage means only one thing: take this vehicle to the toughest off-road routes in your area to maximize its features and functionalities. If you like off-roading adventures, this vehicle is worth the extra cost.
Extra Off-Roading Features
The Jeep Wrangler models are known for their off-roading capabilities, but the Jeep Rubicon is entirely different. This vehicle is equipped with additional features and components which give extra capability and performance while off-roading.
- Dana 44 Front Axle is being used to deliver extreme performance when doing off-road driving. The axle tube comes with extra thickness for improved strength, durability, and rigidity.
- The Rubicon also comes with a powered sway bar disconnect. The sway bar disconnect is the most efficient way to disconnect the sway bar for a much better suspension articulation while off-roading.
- The Rubicon is also equipped with a locking differential which is a must when you go off-road. Engaging in a locking differential will be needed when driving off-road if you need more traction.
- The Rubicon also comes with rock rails which protect the vehicle from pushing away brush while keeping parking lot dents at bay.
Rubicon vs. the Other Jeep Wrangler Models
It can be hard to differentiate the Rubicon from the other Jeep Wrangler models because some of them will be modified by their respective owners. But if you try to compare the 2017 Rubicon and the 2017 Sahara, you will see that the bumper and the fender flares as the main difference.
Choosing a Rubicon, which is considered a top-tier Jeep model, is significant in mechanics, especially while driving off the road. The special parts I mentioned earlier contribute to the excellent ability of the Rubicon off the road.
The Jeep manufacturers were clever enough to recognize that most Jeep owners tend to upgrade their vehicles over time to improve off-road capability. What the manufacturers did was to create a vehicle where all the upgraded components were already there, which is now the Rubicon.
Conclusion
What is the difference between a Rubicon and a Wrangler? There is not much to compare since a Rubicon is one of the trim models of a Jeep Wrangler. However, if Jeep Wrangler models are known for their off-road capability, then the Rubicon provides the advanced features and functionalities to make the off-road experience more fun and adventurous.