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Drivers with automatic trans and 3.6L V6, any regrets on not getting the 2.0L Turbo?

SlickJoe

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Already placed a factory order in D1 status for a 3.6L V6. Admittedly, I didn't know much about the 2.0L Turbo, or what low-end torque even meant. I have just always wanted a jeep, and figured that the standard 3.6 would be safe and reliable.

However, now that I have been glued to the JL forums since making my purchase, having that better low-end torque does seem like it would make driving the jeep every day as a daily driver more fun.

Also, I just assumed that a turbo engine would be in the shop all the time based on what my Uncle (who is up there in age) told me, but the general consensus seems to be that modern turbo engines are just as reliable as NA engines.

I am going to test drive both versions back-to-back on Friday at a nearby dealership and will certainly report back with my opinion, but I'd be curious to hear if anyone regrets their engine choice, especially since turbos have only recently hit the market for the JL, so not much has been posted on the internet as far as performance and "fun-factor" goes.

I'm still fairly young, and I feel that had I known more about turbocharged engines and what low-end torque meant as far as driving off the line goes that picking the 2.0 would have been a no-brainer. I've never driven a car w/ a turbo, but people seem to rave about the sound of the turbo winding up (I don't care about fuel economy, I want the engine that is more "fun" to drive) and idk... just sounds like a fun time.
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Pic18

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No regrets
 

Oilslick

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I get irritated with my sahara not holding 8th gear worth a damn,always downshifting. I'd like to try s turbo.
 

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rkammer

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no regrets
 

CypressWrangler

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No regrets at all...but only had mine for 24hrs. Test drove the 2.0 a few time....liked the 3.6 better.
 

BillG

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Go to Jeep Informants you tube page and look at his video of the 4cyl up on a lift. All those cooling lines make me nervous. I’m happy with the 6 in mine. It’s got plenty of get up and go.
 

VolCntry73

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Go to Jeep Informants you tube page and look at his video of the 4cyl up on a lift. All those cooling lines make me nervous. I’m happy with the 6 in mine. It’s got plenty of get up and go.
Got you covered in post 5, Bill. ;)
 

BillG

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Got you covered in post 5, Bill. ;)
Think you were posting that as I was typing. I just watched that yesterday. Glad I have mine already. If the e-torque system is coming for the 6, it will probably have all that stuff too.
 

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VolCntry73

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Think you were posting that as I was typing. I just watched that yesterday. Glad I have mine already. If the e-torque system is coming for the 6, it will probably have all that stuff too.
I concur!! Makes me really glad I got a 2018. Not sure why they would mount a battery box (thin at that) in an area that will not only take a lot of punishment, but at times, submerged in water. First mod on a 2.0 should be a skid. So many coolant lines. All of it may work flawlessly and have zero problems, but not my cup of tea.
 

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StuntmanMike

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That whole "turbos are unreliable" thing is BS.

I have a turbo in my Volvo, a 2.5L 5cyl. It's about to roll 212k miles by the end of the week, and zero issues with the turbo. LOTS of older turbo cars running around with high mileage on them. Change the oil on a regular basis and they're fine.

Turbos are great in the mountains, as the thinner air does not effect them. If I lived where there was high elevation, I would strongly consider a turbo. I love my turbo Volvo motor, it's not a screamer, it's tuned for low end torque. It makes it's torque peak of 236ft lbs at under 2k rpm, so it's great on the highway at pulling grades in top gear.
 

TA1ton

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but I'd be curious to hear if anyone regrets their engine choice
I love my 3.6L 8 speed...it has plenty of power and torque. IMHO it feels like driving a go kart...the engine is lively and responsive...the 8 speed is smooth and quick. It is fun to drive, but it’s not a race car...the most fun is when you’ve got the doors and top off! Plus...the extra $1000 you pay for 2.0L will buy some nice upgrades...maybe enough to even out the difference.

It does need to be said that I haven’t driven the 2.0L, so I’m not trying to say it’s a bad engine...but like many have pointed out...it is a new engine that isn’t tried and true.

So basically I don’t think you can go wrong with either...but I have no regrets with my 3.6L.
 

RAZA

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Wanted the 2.0 mostly for better MPG, but was told they wouldn't be available till earliest next year up here in the great white north.

Jumped on the 3.6 and later learned that the 2.0 is only 1mpg better on the highway for the JLU, which is most of my driving.

Honestly couldn't be happier with the 3.6, and the $1k CAD spared expense has been dedicated to mods.
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