Well I have the Sahara 4xe so I can’t comment on the engine choices. But the trim level is very similar to a regular Sahara. It’s the “kinda luxury” version. Leather, nicer electronics, body colored fenders and more high-end options. But it still drives and performs like a Wrangler. The Sahara comes with larger rims and thinner rubber than the other trims, which makes it more street-oriented and less off-road oriented. But the Sahara is still highly capable for light or medium off-roading. And of course you can modify it into a hardcore offroad jeep.
The anti spin rear axle and full-time 4hi auto typically shine the most when driving in the snow, especially on roads that keep toggling back and forth between dry and slippery surfaces. The only other benefit of anti spin, is that it upgrades the Jeep to the larger Dana 44 rear axle vs the standard 35. For driving in sand, 4hi auto isn't necessary. You'll want to be in regular part-time 4hi because both axles stay engaged until you shift back to 2hi. That will maximize traction vs the front axle only engaging after the rear wheels start spinning from loss of traction. It's generally better to not lose traction in the first place, which is why part-time is better than full-time in the sand.
?— no, Don’t underbuy, it will cost more to upgrade, Willys XR gets you the tires and wheels you want, the proper gears in 44’s to run them, LSD, spare relocation-reinforcement. Plus lift, HD brakes, high flares. Without warranty issues. Upgrading gears, tires, and relocation to my pre XR cost almost as much as the XR pkg (392 came with a lift and beadlock capable wheels or add ~$4K my cost - edit- and flares) It’s a damn good deal. Also, in an emergency situation a mashed throttle and the front axle pulled me straight once, I would not of had time to shift, recommend 4-Auto
Mines ran 87 since new (20k miles) with zero issues. Runs great, plenty of power. A base Sport will do everything you want it to do..
Willys offers the best overall value in the entire JL lineup, and the XR package is pretty compelling. Especially the lower gearing. The stretched suspension “lift” gets mixed reviews, though. A Mopar lift appears to be a better setup.
Aldo, I’ve always wondered about the Sahara shocks. My wife has a 2020 Sahara JLU. Her build sheet says “Heavy Duty Suspension w/Gas Shocks.” It felt no different than my base 2018 Sport, or my 2021 Rubicon (all four door). All of these vehicles we lifted with Fox 2.0 shocks, with a noticeable improvement. I’ve tried to research the difference with the Sahara shocks, but found nothing tangible from trusted websites, including Jeep.com. What is the real deal with this? Thanks!
