Hi,

New to the forum and I am trying to determine if I want an rubicon LJ or JKU. Just graduated college and managed to get a pretty sweet job with no debt... Looking for a jeep to last through the years for various hunting trips (yes we do exist in CA) and possibly a couple off roading fishing and sight seeing trips. I have no intention to turn this thing into a rock crawler. Anyone have any input? Payload at max will be 4 people, an ice chest, and if all goes right a pig or buck. I have been looking here in CA for LJ's and the best i have seen is 18000. Only concern is the turning radius of the bigger jeep might make it a bit dificil when going through brush or tight turns.

Curious what you guys have to say in terms of performance, modifications, and price.

Cheers

Joe

 

I prefer the looks of the LJ.
I really like the access to the back of the JKU.
Not only is access for the rear passengers better in the JKU, but with the rear seats folded down, the back doors of the JKU are great for access to the cargo area from the sides.

I don't know the difference in turning radius between the two vehicle types, but for me, it wouldn't be an important factor in my decision. I haven't had any problems in the woods with my JKUR.

I modified the floor in my JKU. Having this much clear floor area comes in handy almost every day.

 

I have had both. Long term the JKU has more room, and easier entry to the back seats. Something to think about if you plan on having kids long term. I like my JKU more than my old LJ.

 

I'm a huge fan of the LJ but like others have said, you can't beat the space of the JKU. If you plan on having passengers in the back seat, you can't beat the JKU.