I am going to be buying a JKU Rubicon 6 speed here in the next few months and i originally had in mind an 07-11 mostly for cost and not having to worry about the new adjustments with the exhaust for lifting a 12.
I almost test drove a 12 last night but decided against it due to the fact if i get a taste of the new engine ill never want to go back but the cost of a 12 would put all the bumpers, winch, lights etc on hold for quite a while.
SO is the new engine worth the money to go with the 12? or would i be fine with an 07-11 and get a superchip?
i plan on running 35s and keeping the 4.10s for now

 

Look at my sig below. I had all this done to my '08, but after test driving the new '12 I fell in love all over again. I ended up selling my '08 and made an order for the 2012 JKU. Even though I had 5.13 gearing I just wasnt satisfied because of the nature of the auto transmission. I thought of it this way as I contemplated on giving up my '08 what do I gain:

1. New 5 speed auto & more powerful engine
2. 4.10 gearing match w/the trans can pull 35s with ease
3. Do not have to spend in regearing to run 35s
4. Upgrading from an X to a RUBI
5. New interior design
6. Getting all the creature comforts such as power window, power door locks, leather seats, GPS
7. The fun factor of modding the Jeep all over again

Whatever route you choose I know you will still be happy because after all you are getting a JEEP !!!!!

 

That is very tuff. I would really like to drive a new 6 speed and compare to my 10.

 

did the superchip help the old engine quite a bit? or does it still not even compare to the 12?

 

Yes it did give a slight improvement, but for me even with the superchip, there is no comparison for the '12. Now this is a JKr who had an auto trans. I cant say for those who drive a manual '07-'11. My biggest gripe about the previous year JKs is just how poor the reaction is with the 4 speed auto....

 

Spend a little how how or spend it more later because if you get the 3.8. You going to wish the you would have gone with the 2012. If you go with the 3.8. You are going to know real soon that the 3.8 is a dog. You live in Colorado you need the power. So I would go with 12.

 

3.8 is just fine IMO. Then again, I've never driven a 2012..

 

An excellent point! Personally I'd say shell out for the '12 if you are planning on hanging on to it for a while. I have a 2011 and as many have said, the engine really is not that stellar and I wished that I'd have waited a few more months and gotten the 12 instead

 

I loved my steel blue 07 JKU auto and it was a very good vehicle both on and off road. I traded for one of last sahara tan JKUR autos because I loved that color when it came out. If you can afford the 12, buy it. There is NO comparison in the auto's especially at highway or interstate speeds. The 3.8 are nominally powered for the application and with autos, are in constant kick down mode going up a hill or trying to speed up just a little. The 3.6 have plenty of power for the application and the auto's gear range is far superior with the additional gear. Reverse is much lower as well which is nice while backing up off road or towing. I liked the 07-10's interiors but I'm 48 so the better interior is also a plus for me.

 

I have an 11 and have driven the 12 quite a bit. There is a noticeable difference is shifting and power. One thing I can't figure out is that I get better MPGs on the 11 and both are stock autos with 3.73 rear. I personally don't think there is enough difference that's worth taking the beating to trade the 11 for a 12.