Hi guys, I bought a new 2013 wrangler unlimited automatic ,the new engine seems have enough power but why do I feel just lag if I don't push gas hard? I've tried a 2011 pathfinder, definitely feel rapid acceleration when I push lightly. (Jeep has more powerful engine)
I love the jeep, just curious how do you guys feel or deal with it?(2012-2013 wrangler)
Thanks

 

I have a 12 jku and get the same impression. The gas pedal is certainly heavier than others. It certainly requires a more deliberate push to get any real acceleration. I guess it is an attempt to week out some better MPG. I find it bothersome.

 

It's probably due to the electronic "drive by wire" that controls the throttle response, unlike some of the older vehicles that uses a throttle cable. I know for the 3.8 engines, aftermarket programmers such as hypertech, superchips, etc had a throttle response setting to help with the lag. There is also Sprint booster that specifically tailors to that need but I am not sure of its available for the pentastar engines...

 

X2 with Aldaman, Chrysler put a 3 sec delay into the drive-by-wire system. I heard it was to mimic a normal gas pedal and get the feel of a throttle cable as close as they could. You think it's annoying on your auto you should try a standard it's worse yet. After some time though you will get more used to it but there are those said products that do help this. Give it about 4 months, the new programs also include a learning program that will adjust to how you drive and that should also help but it will take a lil time but you may find by then you will both be used to it and it will adapt to you and it will seem normal then.

 

It took about 3 weeks for me to get used to my clutch, and I've been driving stick for over 35 years. Things finally settled in.