I am planning on purchasing one of these rods but can't decide which. I currently have 2 of the last gen. Crucials and love the sensitivity, but hate the bottom tightening handle. Therefore, I was excited to see the new models no longer had it. While shopping on Tackle Warehouse, I noticed last year's Zillion rods were on sale. I've never had a Daiwa rod, but the few reviews that are out there seem to be positive. The purpose for this rod is casting jigs and soft plastics and sensitivity is my main concern.

Any recommendations?

Never used either but the comparisons that I've heard made with the zillion, my guess is that it would be better than the crucial

Never fished either of them so my opinion is just that....  but having felt them both in my hands in store, the zillion seemed so much more comfortable and a little lighter.  Those 2 things for me ulitmately make for a better sensitivity rod.  so i'd be leaning toward the zillion, plus that sale price is tempting! 

You can save even more money by getting the Tatula rod.

I'd go with the new Crucial, but I'm also a "Shimano guy". I've owned a few Daiwa rods in the past, my highest end being a Steez. Daiwa makes great tackle in general so either way you're going to get a nice rod.

I would be tempted to say Cumara vs Zillion. The Crucial would be Tatula comparative. The new lines are too new, no ones gonna be able to give a fair response without a good amount of time on the water. Keep a eye on tackle tour for reviews as they come.

I prefer the full cork handle. So I'd go with the Crucial. However, the I've picked up the Zil, and it sure seems sensitive!

I own 2 of the new Crucial's. Absolutely love them. 

 

I haven't used any Diawa rods, but the foam handles alone will keep me from owning any rod. Stick with cork.

If the blank on the new Crucial is like the last generation I'll pass. If it's like the old model, light and crisp, it should be good. Cork Eva, who cares if the blank sucks. When comparing last generation models of both rods I'd take the Zillion every time. The last Crucial was clunky imo.