Jeep JT Gladiator Mojave vs Gladiator Rubicon: What's the Difference? - Hooke Road
Jeep offers two impressive off-road variants of their popular Gladiator pickup truck: the Mojave and the Rubicon. While both models are designed to tackle rugged terrains, they do have some key differences. Many Gladiator JT owners do not know the difference between the Mojave and the Rubicon and therefore misunderstand the compatibility of Hooke Road Aftermarket Gladiator JT accessories. Let’s understand the difference between the two!
Engine and Transmission
Both the Mojave and Rubicon models come with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that delivers 285 horsepower. They also share the same 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.
Transfer Case
The Rubicon is equipped with the Rock-Trac 4x4 system, which includes a 4:1 low-range gear ratio for enhanced crawling and climbing capabilities. On the other hand, the Mojave features the Command-Trac 4x4 system with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, optimized for high-speed off-road driving.
Axles
The Rubicon boasts heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles, providing excellent durability and strength for extreme off-road performance. The Mojave, while still robust, features a stronger front axle and a slightly different rear axle setup to accommodate its high-speed desert capabilities.
Suspension
The Rubicon utilizes Jeep's renowned heavy-duty suspension system with front and rear locking differentials, giving it exceptional articulation and wheel travel for conquering challenging obstacles. In contrast, the Mojave is equipped with specially tuned high-performance FOX shocks and front hydraulic jounce bumpers, designed to handle high-speed desert runs with enhanced stability and control.
Frame and Suspension Strength Increases
To handle the more demanding off-road conditions, both the Mojave and Rubicon models receive frame and suspension reinforcements. However, the Mojave's frame has been specifically strengthened to withstand the rigors of high-speed desert driving.
Tires, Wheels, and a Wider Track
The Rubicon comes with aggressive off-road tires and wider track widths, providing improved traction and stability on challenging terrain. The Mojave, on the other hand, features specially designed 33-inch Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires and unique 17-inch wheels, optimized for high-speed desert performance.
Mojave Styling and Desert Rated
The Mojave sports distinctive styling cues, including a unique hood scoop, Mojave Desert exterior decals, and orange tow hooks. It is also recognized as "Desert Rated," signifying its ability to handle extreme heat, sand, and dune bashing.
Off-Road Plus
An exclusive feature of the Mojave, the Off-Road Plus system, allows drivers to customize throttle, transmission, and traction control settings for specific off-road conditions. This feature enhances performance and control when navigating sandy or rocky terrains.
In summary, while both the Jeep JT Gladiator Mojave and Rubicon are highly capable off-road vehicles, they are tailored for slightly different purposes. The Mojave focuses on high-speed desert performance, offering unique styling cues and specialized components, while the Rubicon excels in extreme off-road adventures with its heavy-duty axles, locking differentials, and advanced suspension system. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific off-road needs and preferences.