The 3.21 even with stock tires and the Pentastar is a dog. I don't know why they would make it, probably for an extra 1mpg on the fuel economy. I remember back in '07 when 4.10 came with every automatic...

 

Keep in mind that on the 2012 auto, the 3.21's are geared quicker than 3.73's on a 2011 tranny. Throw in the added torque and HP of the new engine, and a 2012 3.21 would feel a tad quicker than a 2011 auto Rubi with 4.10's. Especially with an extra gear.

The change in auto-trannys was as big a change (maybe bigger) than the engine itself.

 

why even bother with the Pentastar when you are losing the big gain of HP and Torque when gearing it to 3.21? Also good luck taking it to the trails.

 

You are correct....it won't perform as well on the trails, and negates the new engine a bit.
I don't know about the OP....
But I think the new engine, along with the interior updates, has brought in a different "group" of buyers (myself included).

While I know this is sacrilegious to the core of Wranglers... fuel economy and on-road ability my trump off-road ability for some. A very higher percentage of Wranglers (80% from a recent article on AOL) never see more than dirt roads.

 

Part of the problem is people not wanting to beat up and abuse a $30K rig on crazy trails. I have to admit my first one will be relegated to logging trails initially. At least until gussets, sleeves, rock rails and various armor are installed. That will likely be a two year process. Most of my interest is more overland that rock crawler. Mine will be a daily driver, but my daily drive is less than 2 miles 1 way. that is why I am getting rid of my megacab diesel. Diesel + short mileage = bad for motor. Luckily the cummins is oil injected under the pistons, and I mitigate short mileage with thin synthetic oil. But the JKU will much better suit my needs.

Have you ever tried to wheel an 8000 lb rig the length of a school bus. Not good at all. It does get 22mpg thoug

 

EPA gas mileage. That way Chrysler can say that the Wrangler gives 21 mpg standard.

 

Yea man. Ya'll are right. Well my Jeep 2012 Sport feels like a rabbit. I kinda floored it for the first time on the highway and it went!! IMO they are all good with the new engine