I think that played a role initially, but things are going on behind the scenes IMO. I believe there are back door rules from the govt limiting production to push more and more electric and small vehicles.
Honestly, I just don't trust these new era motors, especially the 2.0L turbo direct injection. It sounds like shit and its not even cold yet. Waiting on the water pump to leak, paint to bubble/corrosion, etc. Plus I'm a lonely jeeper in my circle, no jeeps buds to off road with.
Lets be honest, we all take a chance with whatever motor and tranny we go with. Nothing is made like it used to be. If it ain't one thing with one motor its another thing with another motor. If it ain't the motor, its the turbo, or the water pump, or the electrical system. Anything is a gamble...
I agree. Would I like to have a Rubicon? Yes, but I couldn't justify the extra cost for lockers and such I will most likely never use. For me, it would have been about, "check it out, got me a Rubi". I got the next best thing IMO, a Willys. Nothing against Rubi's at all, if I had more disposable...
Yea the cooling system seems weird to me. I watch my coolant temp gauge often, the temps have a huge swing. Not so much driving, I'll see 192* - 204*, but idling and slowing putting around I've seen 219* Not sure if its normal or not