New Jeep Wrangler JL’s 4×4 System, Used Executive Coupe under 15K and Where are You? [Ask Nathan]

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1968 Tatra 603
  • Upcoming Jeep Wrangler JL’s 4×4 system?
  • Executive coupe under $15K?
  • Why is it so hard to meet you guys?

[Photo: Amber Weatherford]
This first question comes from a fan who wants to know our opinion on the upcoming Jeep Wrangler 4×4 system.

Q:Hi Nathan,

I’ve asked a couple of questions in the past and you have done a wonderful job at answering them.

This time I’m turning to you to ask your opinion, as you guys have more knowledge than I do on this subject.

Concerning the leaked info on the new wrangler, the selec trac transfer case in particular, do you think it is a real 4×4. Meaning, is it as “hard-core” as the traditional 4×4 transfer case in my current 2013 wrangler unlimited. Or, is it a fancy awd system like the one in the cherokee and grand Cherokee with a software locking differential system. Will it perform the same in 4hi as my current wrangler, or will it constantly looking for grip from wheel to wheel, rather than locking the center differential with real gears.

I’m looking to trade in my jeep for the new one, as gas up here in Montreal, Canada, costs almost double what you pay in the states on average, and i really like the convinence of full time awd for the snowy covered cold roads we get up here (you’ve filmed once in winter here so I know you understand our weather). Also love the idea of a power folding top, given its not one that resembles the old liberty soft top. But, honestly, if it’s a software driven awd, I’d rather choose an awd system like Subaru’s who I’ve driven and owned, and was the best performing winter car I’ve driven.

Thanks so much, and would like meet you guys next time you’re in Montreal,

Nick P.

[Photo: Amber Weatherford]
A: Hi Nick!

There are a ton of rumors out there regarding the new drive systems the upcoming Jeep Wrangler JL may use. Currently, there are two off-road systems available along with additional add-on features. For the most part – computer-driven all-wheel drive systems are not on the current Wrangler.

It’s my opinion (and it’s just an opinion) that Jeep will offer more than two 4×4 systems in the upcoming Jeep Wrangler JL. It’s possible that it will be a similar Quadra-Drive (I or II) system used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. I suspect Jeep will keep traditional 4×4 setups too. More options, more buyers – although, Jeep Wranglers sell like hotcakes.

It’s my guess that they are simply giving consumers, and folks who don’t do serious off-roading, another simple-to-use 4×4 option.

We’ll see soon!

N

This next question comes from a fan who wants our opinion regarding a good executive (luxury) coupe under $15K.

Q: I’m a huge fan of the show and TFL Trucks too. The entire staff is fantastic and each person really brings something unique to the group!.

My question is; what is a great executive coupe/grand touring type car? I’m married, not planning on kids, and want a very comfortable ride on my commute to work and something nice for dates with the wife. I don’t want to appear flashy at work, so older is ok by me and I believe I can get a nice clean used car for under $15k. We live in Seattle are but not in the city. My commute is about 45 minutes on two-lane roads, some stop-and-go traffic at times.

A few examples of cars I’m considering are 1991 Cadillac Eldorado (cool retro body-style but has the 4.9L), 1997 Jaguar XK8 but it’s a little flashy, older Porsche 928, mid-eighties Mercedes 300cd, Lexus SC400, etc.

I’d love your thoughts. I do want a reliable car with air conditioning and would at least want to add bluetooth for calls while driving. Thanks in advance for your help and for such a great show!

All the best,
Aaron

A: Hi Aaron!

Your choices are interesting, but some, like the Porsche 928, are terribly expensive to service properly. Not that I don’t like the 928 – it’s one of my favorite designs. Lexus tend to be pretty solid, provided a youngling didn’t drift it.

It seems like you prefer a rear-drive coupe, which is excellent! There are a few additional coupes I would suggest, but before that, please check on enthusiasts boards for inside information. Some of my post readers might have a few suggestions as well!

Here are a few suggestions – most are luxurious, but vehicles like the Mazda Miata and RX8 are just a hoot to drive.

  • 2008-ish Infiniti G37
  • Mazda Miata
  • BMW Z4 / mid 2000s BMW 325
  • Early 2000s Mercedes-Benz CLK or older SL500
  • Mazda RX8

There is something else: I noticed that there are a TON of restored 60s cars listed on various sales sites that fall under your max price. We’re talking Mustangs, Camaros, T-Birds, El Dorados and more!

I hope that helps!

N

  • – –

The last question comes from a fan who wants to meet us – which is harder than you might think.

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Q:Love you guys but I can’t seem to find a way to meet you!

Is there any events where you’ll be able to meet your fans?

Deb (via: NathanAdlen@twitter)

Holiday Show: Everything you always wanted to know about Team TFLcar

A: Hi Deb!

We keep trying to do meet-and-greet events, but many have failed. We’ll be at the Texas State Fair, SEMA and the LA Auto Show before the end of the year. We’re working on a few, possible fan events in the future – hopefully we can make it work.

The biggest issue is: we are small and we are constantly on the move. As an example, this week, part of the team is heading to Wyoming while I head to Pebble Beach before jetting to a Jeep Trackhawk event that Roman will meet me at. Andre and Tommy have reviews to edit as they travel to press events. We have a dozen unfinished videos that must be completed and posted soon too. Oh, and we have stories to publish on the TFLcar and TFLtruck websites as well.

That’s just the next ten days.

I would love it if we could meet our peeps and we always try to engage our fans when we meet them. Once again, we hope to have something in the works in 2018.

Thanks for your support!

N

Check out this fun Goldmine Hill video!

Nathan and The Fast Lane Car team are here to answer your (reasonable) questions. Interesting and/or entertaining emails will be posted to this column. If it’s relevant in the automotive universe, there’s a chance we may know something about it. The author’s email address and name will be omitted – leaving your initials or nickname, your preference.

From day one, The Fast Lane Car has made it our policy to answer as many questions and comments as we can. We get thousands of emails and comments and feel that, as part of a tight-knit automotive community, having an open dialogue with you keeps things fresh and exciting.

Got a question for Nathan? Drop him a line at: asknathan@tflcar.com.