The compact SUV segment is crowded, and Consumer Reports’ rankings are telling. For example, the Subaru Forester is in the lead, like with most reviewers. However, Jeep SUVs fall short in a lot of ways. In fact, out of every compact SUV, both Jeep models are at the bottom. Why is the 2022 Jeep Cherokee in last place?

Does the Jeep Cherokee have a lot of problems?

Unlike many other models, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee has more lows than highs in Consumer Reports‘ review. Overall, the compact SUV received just a 54 out of 100. On top of a mediocre road test result, low predicted reliability, and bottom-tier predicted owner satisfaction; the Cherokee has even more issues. It only finished ahead of its Jeep counterpart, the Compass, in CR’s rankings.

Firstly, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee suffers from sluggish initial acceleration with the turbo engine. New for the current model year, we’d expect the turbo engine to have some pep. Next, CR calls the transmission “uncooperative” due to its lack of smoothness and responsiveness. Additionally, the ride and handling are stiff and “mundane,” which shouldn’t be the case for an SUV of this size. Lastly, the engine noise is a significant problem for the publication. Moreover, CR called the optional engine “lethargic” and said it sounded like a piece of farm equipment.

Are there any changes to the 2022 Jeep Cherokee?

According to Edmunds, there are a few changes to the 2022 Jeep Cherokee. Firstly, the compact SUV received a revised trim level lineup for the new model year. The trims are Altitude, Latitude Lux, Cherokee X, Trailhawk, and Limited. For the base model, the price starts at $31,590 and reaches around $40,000 with the range-topping trim. Most notably, the mid-tier Cherokee X trim is entirely new. Furthermore, this model only uses a V6 engine, all-terrain tires, an off-road suspension, wheel arch extensions, and a rear tow hook.

That’s not all that’s new for the Cherokee this year. Next, the infotainment system uses an 8.4-inch touchscreen throughout the entire lineup. That’ll make it a bit easier to manage Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, plus the many other standard features.

Are 2022 Jeeps reliable?

According to Consumer Reports, both Jeep compact SUVs aren’t reliable. Unfortunately, their unreliability is part of the reason they’ve been ranked so low. The predicted reliability score for the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is just a 2/5. Previous model years have suffered from frequent major mechanical issues like engine, cooling, transmission, electrical, and other problems. As a result, CR doesn’t expect the new model year to be very reliable either.

On the other hand, the bottom-ranked Jeep Compass is even worse in most ways. With the same predicted reliability rating, the Compass also historically suffered from the same problems. However, brakes, body hardware, exhaust, and suspension issues join the list.

The 2022 Jeep Cherokee is in last place

In conclusion, Jeep’s compact SUVs aren’t even close to the top of the rankings. Consumer Reports dislikes more than it likes about the Cherokee and Compass. With all the new upgrades it received for 2022, we’d expect the Cherokee to be a well-rounded model. However, it falls short from a lack of reliability, an unimpressive turbo engine, poor ride quality, and more. Overall, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee is in last place because it fails to beat other compact SUVs.