Searching for the perfect compact SUV can be a challenging task. This vehicle segment is one of the most popular for a few reasons. Compact SUVs provide the drivability of a car while offering plentiful space inside for cargo and passengers. Jeep offers three models that U.S. News & World Report classifies as compact SUVs. They are the 2022 Jeep Cherokee, Compass, and Wrangler. Unfortunately, all three Jeep models fell short of U.S. News’ top 10 compact SUVs.

U.S. News top 10 compact SUVs

According to U.S. News, the best compact SUVs have more interior cargo space than sedans while maintaining a similar drive quality. As a result, the publication ranked every model in the segment based on its ability to accomplish this goal. Overall, two models tied for best compact SUV, the 2022 Honda CR-V and 2022 Hyundai Tucson. Both earned an 8.8 out of 10 and are highlighted by a low starting price, good fuel economy, an upscale interior, roomy seats, plenty of cargo space, and tons of standard safety features.

The top 10 compact SUVs are comprised of the following models:

1. Honda CR-V
2. Hyundai Tucson
3. Mazda CX-5
4. Ford Bronco Sport
5. Subaru Forester
6. Mitsubishi Outlander
7. Nissan Rogue
8. Toyota RAV4
9. Volkswagen Tiguan
10. Kia Sportage

The 2022 Jeep Cherokee barely fell short of U.S. News’ top 10

U.S. News says the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is the best of the Jeep compact SUV lineup. It earned a 7.7 out of 10 overall, over a full point behind the leading models. Starting at $29,995, the Cherokee is much more costly than top-ranked offerings like the Tucson, which begins at $25,800. Furthermore, the publication lists price and more as the many issues with the 2022 Jeep Cherokee.

For example, the quality of the cabin is much less impressive than rivals. Next, it also provides less cargo room than competitors, which is one of the most essential features of any SUV. Finally, U.S. News calls the transmission “unrefined.” It calls the response “inconsistent” when the vehicle shifts. In addition, fuel economy is below average.

Jeep Compass and Wrangler are tied

Next, the reviewers gave the 2022 Jeep Compass and 2023 Jeep Wrangler the same score. Both compact SUVs earned a 7.2 out of 10, placing them in fourteenth in U.S. News rankings. For the Compass, it’s worsened by poor fuel economy, low cargo volume, unresponsive steering, uncomfortable ride, and a pokey acceleration. It uses a 177 horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, so it’s no surprise it lacks power.

Surprisingly, the ultra-popular 2023 Jeep Wrangler is also one of the worst compact SUVs. Falling short of the top 10, the off-roader pales in comparison to others in a few ways. First, according to U.S. News, it drives like a truck. Some people don’t like the truck-like drive the Wrangler provides in a segment that’s touted for being car-like. Next, like its siblings, it gets poor fuel economy, with just 12 city and 17 highway at its worst. Finally, as is always an issue with Wranglers, the road and wind noise is plentiful.

3 Jeep compact SUVs didn’t make U.S. News’ top 10

In conclusion, only three Jeep models are considered compact SUVs by U.S. News. Unfortunately, none reviewed well enough to make it into the top 10 best models. Buyers of the Jeep Cherokee, Compass, or Wrangler will experience some issues not found with other compact SUVs. Mostly, the Jeep lineup suffers from poor gas mileage, a low ride quality, and a cramped interior.