With over 75 years of history, Jeep Wranglers are some of the best-known and most-loved off-road vehicles. For most people deciding on a Wrangler, the choice comes down to the Rubicon and Sahara. Both Wrangler trims have similar rugged styling, so telling them apart on the surface can be challenging. Read as our All American Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) team in Oneonta, Alabama, digs deeper to help you decide which Wrangler suits you best.
Performance
2023 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon by Greg Gjerdingen is licensed with CC BY 2.0
As a lower trim level, the 2023 Sahara has the smallest 3.0-liter V-6 engine as standard. It's still a capable diesel motor generating 260 horsepower. You can also choose the Sahara with a 2.0-liter turbo inline plug-in hybrid motor, which boosts horsepower to 375. The standard Rubicon has a larger 3.6-liter V-6 engine up front. It's more powerful than the standard Sahara engine, generating 285 horsepower.
While the Rubicon's motor is larger, its extra off-roading equipment makes it heavier. Car and Driver tested both 2023 trims and found the Rubicon slower than the Sahara. That extra weight also impacts the Rubicon's fuel economy. It gets 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 21 mpg. The more fuel-efficient Sahara gets 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 22 mpg. Choosing the Sahara's hybrid powertrain further improves fuel economy. With any engine, the Sahara has an edge for daily driving.
Four-Wheel-Drive Systems
The Sahara comes standard with the Command-Trac four-wheel-drive system, which improves traction by delivering torque to all four wheels. You can upgrade to the superior Rock-Trac system, but it comes standard with the Rubicon. The Rock-Trac has a 4:1 low-gear ratio, so you can crawl more slowly with a greater increase in torque compared to the Command-Trac's 2.72:1 range. You won't notice too much difference on most surfaces, but hit some boulders, and that Rubicon system will come into its own.
Off-Roading Credentials
Both the Sahara and Rubicon are quality off-roaders, but the Rubicon has some extra features that give it the edge over its more affordable sibling. It has enhanced rock rails to protect its underbody, electric front and rear locking differentials, and 4:1 low-range gearing for extra traction. Dana 44 front and rear heavy-duty axles are also exclusive to the Rubicon. And it has the Xtreme Recon package, with ground-clearance-boosting 35-inch all-terrain tires, 4.56 gears, a Mopar reinforced tailgate and tire carrier, and stylish fender flare extensions.
The Sahara performs well on most surfaces, especially if you're only an occasional off-roader who doesn't take too many risks. But if off-roading is your passion and you're always looking for the next thrill, the Rubicon is probably a better choice. You'll notice the extra benefit from those Rubicon-exclusive features, especially on the most challenging off-road tracks.
Styling
The Sahara and Rubicon are similar-looking vehicles with boxy designs inspired by military Jeeps. But the Sahara has the edge if we had to choose a favorite style. Its body-color fender flares give it a more sophisticated look than the Rubicon, which has contrasting accents. The Sahara also doesn't have the large logo the Rubicon does, making it seem more chic for driving in Oneonta. The Rubicon's off-road all-terrain tires may be better suited to the beaten track, but the Sahara's standard highway terrain tires have a cooler urban look.
Configurations
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler Sahara is only available as a four-door SUV, while there are two-door and four-door versions of most Rubicon trims, so the Rubicon is the best option if you prefer a two-door vehicle. While four doors improve accessibility if you regularly carry passengers in the back, they also add weight. The Sahara is already lighter because it has less off-road equipment on board, but you should notice a real difference in handling and acceleration when you compare the two-door and four-door Rubicons. If you prefer the look of a two-door Jeep, the Rubicon is a natural choice.
Trim Levels
In 2023, Jeep offers two Sahara trims and two Rubicon trims. In addition to the standard Sahara, the Sahara Altitude has an edgier design. The differences are mostly cosmetic, including gloss-black aluminum wheels, black accent badging, and black leather-trimmed seats. The only functional difference comes from the all-terrain tires, which should suit you if you want to take your Wrangler off-road.
The differences between the Rubicon and its sibling, the Rubicon 392, are much more pronounced. The Rubicon 392 is Wrangler's top trim, delivering a mix of luxury and ultimate off-road performance. It gets the Wrangler's largest engine, a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 that generates an eye-watering 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It also features a hydro glide air induction system to protect the engine from water damage when crossing creeks and rivers. The electronic sway bar disconnect and locking front and rear differentials improve traction on challenging terrain. The Xtreme Recon package is also standard.
Jeep also released limited edition Wrangler Rubicons in 2023 to celebrate the trim's 20th anniversary. The special edition Wrangler Rubicon 4xe and Wrangler Rubicon 392 boast stylish 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, red and black leather-trimmed seats, a swing gate plaque, and a commemorative shifter medallion. Serious off-roading gear, such as a forward-facing trail camera, steel bumper, and tough rock rails, complement these opulent changes.
Test the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Wrangler Sahara for Yourself
Jeep's Wrangler Rubicon and Wrangler Sahara are both serious off-roaders, so the right choice is a matter of personal preference. Taking them both for a test drive is the best way to decide which one you want. At All American CDJR, we have the latest Wrangler Rubicon and Wrangler Sahara models and excellent used options to help you make the right decision. Our friendly team can also answer any questions you have about these Wranglers and buy your existing vehicle to finance your new ride. At All American CDJR, we make purchasing a new Jeep Wrangler easy.