Jeep is a well-known name that is known for making tough cars that can go off-road. The Jeep Wrangler has been around for a long time. The JK and JL are two of the most well-known versions.
So, what’s different about the Jeep JK from the JL? First of all, the JL came out in 2017 for the 2018 model year, while the JK has been around since 2007 and was still made until 2018. That’s not all; there are also differences in the engines, transmission, comfort, and features.
Therefore, if you want to know the nuts and bolts of your Wrangler, then this JK vs JL is your ultimate blog to read!
Jeep Wrangler JK Vs JL: Comparison Overview
Before breaking down the features of both Jeep JK and JL, let’s have a quick overview of both generations with their features.
| Comparing Aspects | Jeep Wrangler JK | Jeep Wrangler JL |
| Engine comparison | 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 Engine | 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine |
| 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 Engine | ||
| Transmission differences | 6-speed transmission | 8-speed transmission |
| Exterior design | Thumb operated doors | Pull out a mechanism to open the doors |
| No fender vent | Presence of a fender vent | |
| Signal lights are below the headlights | Signal lights are on the front flare face | |
| A traditional 7-slot grille with a Jeep logo | A slightly kinked grille with no logo | |
| Interior design | Normal Jeep space | Increased space |
| Key start | Push button start | |
| Standard infotainment system | Upgraded UConnect multimedia system with a screen | |
| Weight | Weighs up to 4,406 lbs | Weighs up to 5,300 lbs |
| Suspension differences | Offers a 10.2 ground clearance | Offers a 10.8 ground clearance |
| Safety add ons | Basic safety features such as airbags and stability control | Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) |
| Blind-spot monitoring and rearview camera | ||
| Pricing | $5,500 – $29,040 | $26,995 – $40,495 |
Jeep JL Vs JK: Side-By-Side Comparison
The Jeep JK and JL aren’t just different trim levels like Sport or Unlimited; they are from different models of the Jeep Wrangler.
Moreover, the Jeep JK is from the third generation and the JL is from the 4th generation and is considerably better than the JK.
The major differences between these two generations are discussed below. Also, explore Jeep Wrangler Rubicon vs Sahara
Engine Comparison
The JL Wrangler has also upgraded in terms of performance and differs from the JK Jeep in the following ways:
| Feature | Jeep JK | Jeep JL |
| Engine | 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 Engine | 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine3.6-liter Pentastar V6 Engine |
| Horsepower | 285 horsepower | 270 horsepower |
| Torque | 260 pound-feet of torque | 295 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | 6-speed Chrysler NSG370 | 8-speed automatic transmission |
| Fuel Economy (City) | 17 MPG | 18 MPG |
| Fuel Economy (Hwy) | 25 MPG | 23 MPG |
| Main Feature | It is known for its strong wheels and reliable four-wheel-drive systems that make it very good off-road. | Well-known for off-road skills, which are made even better by high-tech features like the available Selec-Trac. |
Benefits of Choice:
Jeep JK
The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that comes standard with the JK model packs a strong punch with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine is just the right amount of powerful and fuel-efficient.
Jeep JL
The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine is an extra engine option for the JL model. Even though it’s not very big, its 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque make it very powerful.
Moreover, the JL has the same 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and it’s been tweaked to make it run smoother. To cut down on pollution and improve fuel economy, they’ve added tech like an electric start-stop tool.
Real Life Examples
As an alternative, the Jeep JL Wrangler has a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. This engine gets better gas mileage than bigger V6 engines and has good low-end power for off-roading.
The Jeep JL Wrangler also came with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine as a stock option, just like the Jeep JK. It gives you the right amount of speed and gas mileage.
Transmission Differences
Benefits of Choice:
Jeep JK
- The Jeep JK model came with a standard 5-speed manual gearbox when it was first released.
- In later models, like the 2018 model, it was improved so that a 6-speed transmission was standard.
- Highly functional when it comes to off-roading performances
Jeep JL
- The JL model comes with an automatic engine with 8 speeds as standard.
- This 8-speed automatic transmission helps the JL to have smoother gear changes, better fuel economy, and better performance.
- Adding more gears to this drive system makes it better at both delivering power and saving gas.
Real Life Examples
So, if you’re an off-road fan who needs more control over gear choices JK’s 5-speed manual transmission is the best pick. This type of transmission works well when accurate control over power delivery is needed.
Now, if you’re with JL, then the extra gears of this variant will help you keep the fuel economy and speed high while driving on the highway.
Exterior Design and Styling
When comparing the Jeep JK and JL models, it’s critical to understand the evolution of the Jeep Wrangler design and the key differences that distinguish them.
| Features | Jeep JK | Jeep JL |
| Grille and Headlights | The standard seven-slot grille is used. The surface is smooth and uninterrupted from top to bottom. | The JL model is different because it has a small bump or break in the grille’s surface and doesn’t have the usual “Jeep” logo on top. |
| Grille and Headlights | Warning lights have been moved to the front flare face. This change to the style not only makes it easier to see, but also makes the Jeep look better overall. | The JK model has warning lights below the headlights |
| Doors | To open the JK model’s door, you have to press a button | The doors have a pull-out mechanism that makes them easy to use. |
| Rear Taillights and License Plate Placement | JK model has backlights that are all rectangular, with the reverse light at the bottom of the assembly. | On the JL Wrangler, it’s connected to the bumper |
| Fender Vent | The fender vents in JK are just for looks and don’t do anything useful like vents in some other cars. | The JL makes a big improvement by adding small vents behind the front fender flares on both the driver and passenger sides. |
| Foldable Windshield | The windscreen could be folded down, however removing the A-pillar’s exterior was difficult. | In contrast, the JL Wrangler improved this. A-pillar tubes were added to the roll bar to simplify windshield folding |
| Weight (It can vary depending on the variant years) | JK weighs 4,106–4,406 pounds | JL weigh 200 pounds less than JK Rubicons, which weighs 4,406 pounds. |
Benefits of Choice
Jeep JK
- Easy-to-clean materials and controls make it ideal for off-roading in dirt and mud.
- The JK’s interior has circular air vents, a utilitarian dashboard, and exposed bolts.
- Four-door JK Unlimited versions provide a large rear cargo compartment for everyday use and off-road gear storage.
Jeep JL
- It has better materials and seats than its predecessor and improves noise isolation, making driving quieter.
- The JL has a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone connectivity, and driver-assistance systems
- Its interior has sleeker lines and better ergonomics that balance off-road toughness and modern style.
Real Life Examples
Think about going on an off-road journey in your Jeep JK through rough terrain. The JK’s interior is simple, so it’s easy to clean up after getting muddy or dirty.
However, you are likely to get the hang of your daily journey more in the JL as it’s more comfortable inside. The better climate control system also makes sure that you are relaxed no matter what the weather is like.
Interior Features
The section here will provide some ins and outs of the interior features of both Jeep JK and JL. So, make sure to skim through till the end.
| Features | Jeep JK | Jeep JL |
| Advanced Technology Features | The JK model has a basic entertainment system that doesn’t work with smartphones. | The JL model has high-tech features that are meant to make driving more enjoyable generally. |
| Increased Space | The JK model, on the other hand, has a total movement of 8″. | The JL Jeep has been improved to have an impressive 15.5″ of overall travel. |
| Push Button | JK requires a key start the engine | For the JL type, starting to the engine is as easy as pressing a button. |
Benefits of Choice
Jeep JK
- The JK model provides a pretty basic, yet classic look
- It’s easy to clean and maintain the interior
- It comes with a decent space
Jeep JL
- It has remarkable spacing compared to JK
- The interior features are pretty advanced
- JL’s push button is all you need to start the engine
Suspension
Even though both the JK and JL come with a 4″ suspension system, the JL Jeep has been improved to have an impressive 15.5″ of overall travel. The JK model, on the other hand, has a total movement of 8″.
Moreover, the JL’s new suspension setup not only gives it better articulation, but it also makes it more stable. This makes it better able to handle rough terrains with ease.
Axle and Tire Options
There is only one change between the JK and JL when it comes to the axles. These axles are changed to heavy-duty Dana 44 axles in the JL model. Not only are these Dana 44 hubs stronger, but they are also wider and bigger.
However, the JL also comes with bigger 33″ tires than the JK. The reason for this change is to ensure extra room in the JL model.
Safety Upgrades
Well, the JL models have more safety features than JK models, increasing protection. The table below will provide you with the necessary guidelines.
| Safe Upgrades | Jeep JK | Jeep JL |
| ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems) | N/A | Innovative driver-assistance technologies with sensors and cameras.Lane departure Warning, automated emergency braking Adaptive cruise controlFront collision warning. |
| Rearview Camera and Blind-Spot Monitoring | N/A | Blind-spot tracking makes the JL model much easier to see and makes the driver more aware of their surroundings. |
Pricing and Trim Levels
Jeep JK models start cheaper than JL models due to their earlier availability. JK models range from $5,500 (2007 model) to $18,920, while the 2018 model can exceed $29,040.
The JL Wrangler costs $2,000–$3,500 more than the JK. The JL model’s trim levels and basic costs are below:
| Trim Level | 2018 Wrangler JL Prices (2-door) | 2018 Wrangler JL Unlimited Prices (4-door) |
| Sport | $26,995 | $30,495 |
| Sport S | $30,195 | $33,695 |
| Rubicon | $36,995 | $40,495 |
Watch this video:
Bottom Line
In a nutshell, it’s easy to tell the difference between a JK and JL Wrangler if you know where to and what to look for.
So, which one is better? Well, honestly, that depends on your tastes. JK Wranglers are less expensive and have been around for a while, so people know they can be counted on.
JL models, on the other hand, cost more but have more space, comfort, and speed. So, it’s all about what you care about most!
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