Jeep Wrangler JL vs JK - A Side-By-Side Photo Comparison

Jeep sure isn’t making it easy to decide which amazing model you’ll want to be seen driving in 2018. Along with the new year comes the all-new Jeep Wrangler JL, and to say we’re obsessed is an understatement. The JL is an updated classic for the modern age, but the beloved Wrangler JK will make it a tough decision between which model to ultimately go with. There are some significant differences between the two, so we’ve highlighted some of the biggest differences to help you make a decision. Let’s get right into it:

Grille Design

Arguably the most notable differences between these two models are their exterior aesthetics. There’s no doubt the JL’s new grille will catch most Jeep enthusiasts’ eyes. It is much more prominent, protruding further than the JK grille. While the Wrangler JK’s grille is more vertical, the new JL grille is slightly slanted towards the top half. Words can only do so much justice though. Here are pictures of the JK and JL grilles side by side. Which do you prefer?

Headlights and Fog Lights

The all-new JL also features significantly different headlight and fog lights placement and design. As you can see from the photos above, the JL’s headlights actually encroach on the iconic seven-slot grille—a nod to more classic designs. The fog lights have also been moved farther from the center of the bumper on the JL. The Jeep badge above the grille has also been removed for the new model.

Other Aesthetic Differences

While the grille and headlights are the most prominent and visible changes, there are a myriad of other small changes for the new JL. The windshield is more slanted, eliminating the boxier feel of the JK. The front bumper looks slightly different, the hood latches have been redesigned, and the license plate holder has been moved back to the bumper from where it previously resided above on the JK. Here’s a photo of the rear to show the difference:

Capability and Functional Design

The Wrangler JL has been engineered differently from the JK as well. The all-new model is constructed from a mix of high-strength aluminum and steel, making it around 200 lbs. lighter than the JK, which is composed of a mostly steel frame. The JL is slightly more fuel-efficient as well, with its focus on aerodynamic design taking center stage.

Engine and Performance

Both of these vehicles feature a very similar Pentastar V6 Engine. The JL received a slightly newer engine for improved fuel economy. The all-new model also has different options available for the engine, including a Turbocharge 4 Cylinder and 3.0-Liter Eco Diesel V6, which will become available in 2019.

The Bottom Line

No matter which you choose, you can’t go wrong with either of these incredible 2018 models. The Wrangler JK may be more for those looking to honor tradition and go with a more classic, straight-forward model. But if you’re looking for the newest technology and the latest design, look no further than the Wrangler JL. Still have questions? Stop by our dealership or give us a call at (801) 896-1731. We’d love to help you find the model that’s right for you.

Snow Tires: A Winter Must? Or an Overhyped Bust?

While it may not feel like winter is in full swing because of the unusually warm weather we’ve been experiencing, we all know that Utah winter weather can strike in an instant with no real warning. Icy conditions, blizzards, snow-packed roads, and generally unsafe driving conditions plague Utahns almost every year and we expect this year to be no different. One way to combat these tough colder-weather conditions is to equip your vehicle with snow tires. But are these tires really that advantageous? Most people opt for all-weather tires because of their versatility and cost-efficiency, but are winter tires actually worth it? Read on to find out if they are a wintertime must, or just an overhyped bust: 

Tread

One of the main differences between winter and all-weather tires is the tread. Snow tires are specifically engineered to have much different patterns than all-season tires. Their design can make all the difference in terms of grip and traction. Whether your car is equipped with these tires or not, tread is also extremely important to monitor for wear and tear. Tread that is worn down will greatly affect how your car will perform in winter conditions. Even a great set of snow tires that are worn down could be a recipe for disaster on an icy Utah road. 

Stopping Distance

Stopping distance is another factor that is heavily considered when thinking about changing tires. How much does stopping distance improve when winter tires are installed? According to Consumer Reports, the average vehicle equipped with them will stop up to six feet shorter than a vehicle with all-season tires. Six feet may not seem like much, but it very well could be the difference between a nasty fender bender and getting home safe and sound. And it’s not only Consumer Reports that believes in the greater stopping power of snow tires. You’d be hard pressed to conduct a Google search on snow tires that does not yield the same result. The final word: snow tires improve stopping distance. 

Cost 

The cost of winter tires is a big concern for many looking into the subject. For some, the idea of spending money on something that they have never used before or personally seen the benefits of can be daunting. They are not exactly cheap, but the safety and security they provide may be well worth it for you and your family. 

Hopefully this information about snow tires will prove useful to you and your vehicle. We all know how crazy Utah winters can get and we want to make sure you are prepared to make an informed decision about the best tires for your vehicle in snowy and icy conditions. If you’re looking to upgrade either your tires or your vehicle, there’s no better one-stop shop than Larry H. Miller Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Riverdale. Come see us today to make sure you are winter ready!