I went from a 3.8L with 37s to a 6.4L with 35s. I'm real happy with the 35s. I knew I would have plenty of power to run 37s, or even 40s or 42s if I wanted to, but I wanted more than just power, I wanted handling and drivability. The current combination, with 4.10 gears, works incredibly well. This is the best driving Jeep I've ever owned. I get up to 17 mpg on the highway, which isn't too bad for 35s. I think 35s offer the best combination of off road capability and on road performance for a 4 door JK.

 

On my 07 with the 3.8, I'm still completely satisfied with 35's

 

2011 w/35's and I would never go back...I plan on re-gearing once the funds appear but for now I am happy!

 

Sluggish? Did you ever drive the 3.8? My jeep chirps the tires all day and has plenty of pep. And, I have 3.21's.

 

I have the 3.6 with 35s, and stock rubi 4.10 gears and i think the performance is fine, not too far off from stock. i'd never consider going down in size and lose the clearance, plus the 4 inch lift would look even goofier with anything smaller.

You said you know the Jeep isnt meant for speed, but it sounds like that's pretty much what you're after, considering you said it feels sluggish. Smaller tires isnt going to turn the jeep into a gt-r. start looking at bigger engines

 

Time for the LS swap :thumbup:

 

I'm not really looking for just speed in general. It just feels like I have no power at all, to the point where I'm thinking something is wrong with my engine. Already got the head replaced and I've had them test the compression. I've had the 3.8 before this, and my Pentastar doesn't feel substantially stronger than that.

But I do agree that maybe I should be looking into adding power instead of loosing clearance.