​Choosing between the Jeep Wrangler Willys and Rubicon isn't just buying a four-wheel-drive (4WD) vehicle — it's about finding your perfect partner for Dallas-Fort Worth adventures. Both models offer serious off-road capabilities but serve different types of Plano drivers. Whether you need a daily commuter that can handle weekend trails or a serious rock-crawling beast, this guide will help you figure out which trim best fits your lifestyle, budget, and off-road ambitions.
Understanding the Heritage: Willys and Rubicon
The Willys sits between the base Sport and Sport S trims and the Rubicon, blending vintage style with modern capabilities. It features the Command-Trac 4WD system for light off-roading, while the Rubicon comes with the heavy-duty Rock-Trac 4WD system with a 4:1 low gear ratio, Tru-Lok front and rear locking differentials, electronic sway bar disconnect, and Dana 44 axles for serious rock crawling.
Both models measure 191.5 inches long, 73.4 inches high, and 76 inches wide with 118.4-inch wheelbases. The Willys weighs 4,012 pounds versus the Rubicon's 4,246 pounds — those extra pounds are down to its specialized off-road hardware.
Historical Significance of the Willys Model
The Willys name isn't just a marketing choice — it's a direct link to Jeep's origins. The original Jeep was the Willys MB, a rugged military scout vehicle that became famous during World War II. This tough little truck established the blueprint for modern off-road vehicles, making today's Willys trim a direct descendant of that battle-tested legacy.
Take a look at the new Willys and you'll spot these vintage connections immediately through design elements such as the hood decals, black grille, and classic wheels paired with 33-inch tires and upgraded shocks. These visual touches aren't just for looks; they're rooted in the solid performance of those wartime Jeeps while delivering the capability needed for today's modern trails.
The Legacy of the Rubicon Trail
The Rubicon name originates from a notoriously challenging stretch of terrain in California called the Rubicon Trail. This infamous path has humbled many 4WD vehicles with its boulder fields, steep climbs, and impressive obstacles. When Jeep needed to name their toughest Wrangler, this legendary trail was the natural pick.
Rubicon-badged Wranglers come fully loaded with locking differentials, chunky off-road tires, enhanced 4WD systems, tough axles, and protective plating underneath. All this tech is specifically engineered to handle the same kind of punishing terrain that gives the actual Rubicon Trail its fearsome reputation.
Design and Build of the Willys and the Rubicon
Though the Rubicon and Willys share many core features, subtle differences in design and build give each its own distinct character.
Engine Options and Fuel Economy
Four engines power the 2025 lineup. The standard 3.6L V-6 delivers 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. A 2.0L turbo four cranks out 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic with the same tow rating. There's also a 375 hp plug-in hybrid option and a 6.4L V-8 generating 470 hp, which is only available in the Rubicon 392 Final Edition.
Fuel economy is improved for 2025. The V-6 hits 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway in the two-door version and 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway in the four-door version. The 2.0L turbo sees figures of 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway for the two-door and 20 mpg city/22 mpg highway for the four-door. The plug-in hybrid combines the turbo 2.0L engine with electric motors for instant torque on the trails.
Ground Clearance
Numbers matter on the trails. The Willys offers 10.9 inches of ground clearance, a 37.8-degree approach angle, and a 44-degree departure angle. The Rubicon matches that 10.9-inch clearance but improves the approach angle to 44.5 degrees while the departure angle drops to 37.8 degrees. With front lockers and 33-inch tires, the Rubicon is designed to tackle obstacles head-on.
Interior Comfort
Both models favor functionality, featuring an available 12.3-inch touch screen, cloth seats, and push-button start. The Rubicon's cloth seats stand out with signature logos and red stitching, with an option to upgrade to black nappa leather seats for a more comfortable ride. Every 2025 Wrangler comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless updates.
Cargo Space and Practicality
For everyday driving, neither model disappoints. You'll find 27.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats — ample room for Costco runs or weekend gear. Fold the seats down and you'll get 67.4 cubic feet of space that accommodates bikes or furniture. If you've got a family, consider a four-door model. You'll get more legroom and cargo capacity without sacrificing off-road capability.
Pricing
The 2025 Willys starts at $40,190 for the two-door model and $44,790 for the four-door model, while the Rubicon jumps to $47,550 for the two-door and $52,050 for the four-door version. However, that extra $7,000 buys you serious trail hardware.
Making Your Choice: Which Wrangler Suits Your Plano Lifestyle?
Ultimately, both the Jeep Willys and Rubicon offer strong daily driving capabilities, but your choice comes down to your lifestyle and priorities. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option with solid off-road capability, the Willys is a smart pick. If you're looking for enhanced off-road performance, the Rubicon may be worth the upgrade. Want to know more? Contact us at Huffines Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Plano to schedule a test-drive today.