Why Is This Popular Midsize Truck In Last Place?
One of the most popular midsize trucks is the 2022 Jeep Gladiator. Since its release, it’s been a widespread choice among consumers for several reasons. Many love that it adds some pickup truck utility to the already off-road capable Wrangler SUV. However, critics don’t think the Gladiator is as good as buyers. Why is this popular midsize truck in last place?
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator is a popular midsize truck
According to GoodCarBadCar, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator is one of the best-selling midsize trucks of 2022. The Gladiator is far ahead of others, just barely behind the leading models for Q2. For example, during this period, Jeep’s midsize truck outsold the Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, Honda Ridgeline, and GMC Canyon. Only the Chevy Colorado and Toyota Tacoma sold more units than the Gladiator by a small margin.
To be more specific, the class-leading Tacoma sold 55,466 units during Q2 2022. This is nothing new, as the Tacoma has led its class in sales for quite some time. Next, Chevy sent 22,497 customers out the door with a new Colorado during the same period. In third for midsize trucks is the Jeep Gladiator, which sold 20,844 units despite having some of the worst overall ratings. People keep buying the last place midsize truck. What’s so bad about the Jeep Gladiator?
Why is the midsize truck in last place?
According to Consumer Reports, the worst overall midsize truck is the 2022 Jeep Gladiator. Out of nine reviewed models, CR put the Gladiator dead last. The Honda Ridgeline leads the way, followed by two Ford models, making them the only three trucks to receive a recommendation. However, even other non-recommended models scored higher overall than Jeep’s popular offering. Why is it bad enough to be in last place?
Firstly, the Gladiator could be much more reliable than it’s proven to be. It received nearly the lowest possible score for predicted reliability from CR. Next, the publication dislikes the way the off-road truck handles. Calling it “clumsy with mushy and slow steering,” it feels like a chore to steer the Gladiator while pushing it to its limits. Next, like with the Wrangler and even the soft-top Bronco, wind noise is a significant issue at highway speeds.
Buyers still love the 2022 Jeep Gladiator
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator remains popular among consumers despite being ranked dead last. To go even further, customers aren’t just buying the Gladiator, they’re happy with their purchase. According to Consumer Reports customer satisfaction surveys, 75 percent of owners would buy the midsize truck again. What do owners enjoy so much about the shockingly low-rated pickup?
CR uses four categories to determine customer satisfaction. They are driving experience, comfort, value, and styling. It’s worth noting that almost no model ever gets high marks for value, as most car buyers feel like they paid too much regardless. However, the bright spots for the Gladiator are the driving experience and styling.
One of the two we already knew. Jeep lovers love the way their Jeep looks. Whether it’s a Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, or Gladiator, most people want it for its looks. Along with the removable top, the iconic frontend design is unmatched and enough to sell vehicles in most cases. Although they’re made for off-road capability, most owners don’t use them for that reason. As for the driving experience, owners love the acceleration and handling, which contradicts CR’s review.
A popular midsize truck is in last place
In conclusion, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator will be popular under almost any circumstances. Regardless of the poor reliability, low ride quality, and other issues, people love their Jeeps. As long as it remains a midsize truck with a stylish Jeep frontend and a removable top, consumers will continue buying it. However, those design cues aren’t enough to surpass any other model in Consumer Reports rankings. For now, the 2022 Jeep Gladiator is CR’s worst overall midsize/compact pickup truck.
