should I trade in the 08 for a 12....is the dash and penstar/trans worth it?
06-05-2013, 07:40 AM
#11
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I had a 2011 with the new interior but 3.8, never considered a JK prior to this due to the interior. My 2013 is the best of both worlds. Motor has more than enough power and is a joy to drive. Seats are even better than my 2011...
06-05-2013, 10:23 AM
#13
JK Enthusiast
I had an '07 JKU on 33's with 4.10s and now have a '12 JKU on 35s with 3.21. Much more power, easier to drive, and slightly better mpg.
If it's a choice between a supercharged 3.8 and a 3.6, I'd go for a 3.6. I'd rather have a stock engine built for an certain amount of power and torque than a dog engine supercharged to the same level. If the mileage is low enough, the 2012 should have some powertrain warranty left that will transfer.
I'd also look and see how many mods you can pull off and put back the '12. Bumpers, rails, etc. can easily be transferred. If you are trading in the '08, the dealer isn't going to give you much for all stuff anyway.
As for the interior, crap old plastic is the same to me as crap new plastic.
If it's a choice between a supercharged 3.8 and a 3.6, I'd go for a 3.6. I'd rather have a stock engine built for an certain amount of power and torque than a dog engine supercharged to the same level. If the mileage is low enough, the 2012 should have some powertrain warranty left that will transfer.
I'd also look and see how many mods you can pull off and put back the '12. Bumpers, rails, etc. can easily be transferred. If you are trading in the '08, the dealer isn't going to give you much for all stuff anyway.
As for the interior, crap old plastic is the same to me as crap new plastic.
06-05-2013, 11:32 AM
#14
I had the 3.8L, and now a '12 JKUR with the Pentastar. Both auto'.
The 3.8L was somewhat sluggish. I wished for more power and at least one more gear.
I didn't like the 'gear hunting' between 3rd and 4th on moderate inclines and even at relatively light acceleration on highways.
The 42% power increase, combined with better spaced 5 gears instead of 4, make a substantial improvement.
It's a personal decision. For me, the difference is definitely justified.
The 3.8L was somewhat sluggish. I wished for more power and at least one more gear.
I didn't like the 'gear hunting' between 3rd and 4th on moderate inclines and even at relatively light acceleration on highways.
The 42% power increase, combined with better spaced 5 gears instead of 4, make a substantial improvement.
It's a personal decision. For me, the difference is definitely justified.
Last edited by GJeep; 06-05-2013 at 11:35 AM.
06-05-2013, 01:36 PM
#15
JK Enthusiast
There are pro's and con's... Only you can decide. Last week I traded my 07 Sahara JKU for a '13 JKUR. I gotta say, I love the Engine compared to the old one. The interior power is a nice feature, however, I tend to agree with others that the over "plushness" of the interior knobs, dash etc. take away from the "old Jeep" feel and do make it harder to clean. You really need to take a LONG test drive in a newer one and see what you think.
06-05-2013, 02:32 PM
#16
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IMHO the only reason to consider upgrading is the engine. Not a fan of the interior. It really just depends on if the extra hp is worth the 5-7 grand. I avoid unnecessary debt as much as I can and that's a lot of money to spend just to go faster up a hill or highway merge.
Sure those who've done it did so without looking back, but their not likely to say "Nah I wish I would have kept the dog...". Only you can decide since you're footing the bill. Good luck. For now I'll be in the slow lane with my '08 JKU...
Sure those who've done it did so without looking back, but their not likely to say "Nah I wish I would have kept the dog...". Only you can decide since you're footing the bill. Good luck. For now I'll be in the slow lane with my '08 JKU...
06-05-2013, 02:43 PM
#17
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Have they worked out the kinks in the new motor though? My 3.8 might be a slug but I would hate dealing with a stronger motor that has issues. Prior to buying my 08, I looked/test drove the 3.6 but it was the first year motor in the Wrangler and I steered away.
