Differences Between 2007, 2008, and 2009 Rubicon
 

I hope to purchase a Rubicon unlimited (with an automatic transmission) and have a question regarding changes between the model years. Are there any significant differences between the 2007, 2008, and 2009 Rubicons?

I did notice that there may have been an extra color (Light Graystone) offered in 2007.

I tried doing a search on the subject, and wasn't able to find any information.

Thanks for your help.

Pasco

I am not 100% on this, but beyond color options I think they are all the same. Grestone began to be offered in 08 and Rescue green was discontinued in 08. ANyone else out there know anything more please feel free to correct me.

Why bother getting an Automatic Rubicon.... Takes away most of the fun. Thats like buying a Mustang GT automatic. Pointless.

To each his own, seems like a waste to make that your first post on this site.


As far as differences, nothing performance wise. besides some color differences, there is also the TPMS and a few other safety gadgets, but nothing all that significant. I have heard a rumor that Jeep was looking to change the Rubicon tire from the BFG KM's to Goodyear MT/R's, but not sure if that is going to happen or not.

Come back and talk when you're fording water :wink:

That statement makes no sense to me. The way I read it you believe that the fun of driving and offroading is in moving a stick around? :naw:

I have an automatic Rubicon. I enjoy figuring out the right line, being in the outdoors, and probably a half dozen other things. No fun lost from my experience.

But be sure you have extentions on your breathers!!! Auto's dont like water! My tj filled to the steering wheel with water because i had no gears.

Standards from then on! lol (yes i know they have breathers too) To each his own!

I have considered both an automatic and manual transmission and I am currently leaning towards a manual transmission for several reasons.

1. While I might regret it, I would like my wife to be able to enjoy driving the Jeep,
2. I have heard from others that the automatic transmissions are less prone to problems than the manual transmissions,
3. I have heard several comments about potential issues while fording water, and
4. The Jeep will likely be my daily driver and I am concerned I might spend an inordinate amount of time shifting through six gears.

Pasco

had a manual TJ and a manual mustang......

got an automatic JK and have no probs or regrets.

....same situation here--traffic and the old lady swayed my decision.

now back on topic.....i dont think there are any major (noticable) changes between 07-09 rubi's. my suggestion, however, would be to get the newest model you can.

good luck.

Far as I can tell... the 2009 will have:
- Sorted out some of the easily correctable problems from 2007 / 2008 models (hopefully)
- A removable change tray in the center console
- A little cargo net in front of the shifter
- I believe the "YES" fabrics have been replaced with something comparable. (not 100% sure)
- Improved tops (??? I guess the Jury is still out, 2009 owners can chime in here)
--- Gaskets should have taken into account all the crap from the TSB on previous year models
--- Redesigned set of freedom panels (front latch moved forward, hooks under the windshield tie-down)
--- A redesigned (metal?) headliner for the soft top