Consumer Reports rarely gives a total score of less than 30 out of 100 for any vehicle model. However, this is different for the Jeep Wrangler with its 28 out of 100, the current lowest score of all 2022 year models. For that matter, the closest option in the mid-size SUV segment, the 2022 Ford Bronco, gets 47 out of 100. That’s not to say that the reviewer hates everything about the car. In fact, Consumer Reports points out two major positive things.
Excellent terrain properties
The Jeep Wrangler has historically been built as an off-road vehicle, and it is no different for the 2022 model. As such, it is not surprising that its off-road driving was one of two things that Consumer Reports liked in the SUV. It is noteworthy that the car has plenty of ground clearance which allows it to handle stone-strewn hills.
All details have four-wheel drive, including 4xe PHEV, which is as impressive terrain as the other gas-powered Wranglers. Still, the off-road experience should prove different given that the car adds electric motors to the mix.
For some trims, such as the Rubicon and Sahara options, there is an optional full-time four-wheel drive system that users do not need to turn off depending on road conditions. That said, Consumer Reports recommends the Sahara for those engaged in tackling rugged terrain. Some of the suitable extra functions that are included are off-road tires, lockable axles and off-road suspension.
As for the Rubicon variants, there is even the addition of protective chassis slide plates. It is worth noting that the traction of some trim options can be quite limited as they come with road tires. In addition, the slope descent control should help make it a little easier to go downhill on a slippery slope.
Strong V6 driveline
Although there are different powertrains available with the Wrangler, the Consumer Reports likes the 3.6L V6 in combination with an 8-speed gearbox. According to the reviewer, this combination gives 0 to 60 acceleration in 7.3 seconds, which is by no means slow. In addition, the 8-speed automatic transmission is soft, makes quick changes and is generally unproblematic to use.
Still, this 3.6L V6 is not cheap to drive and offers only 18 mpg. Other engine options include a 4-cylinder, 3.0L V6 diesel, a high-performance V8 and even a plug-in hybrid. The PHEV version may offer slightly better fuel economy, while others, such as the V8, will make buyers spend more on petrol.
What Consumer Reports disapproves of in 2022 Jeep Wrangler
When it comes to the things that Consumer Reports disapproves of in the 2022 Jeep Wrangler, one is the stiff driving due to stiff suspension. Consequently, there are no shocks and even small shocks outside the cabin. This is only exacerbated by the fact that the soft plush seats lose support during long journeys and that the bottom of the rear seat is too low to provide a comfortable sitting position.
Another gripe is the terrible asset. Although the included running board is intended to facilitate getting in and out of the car, it seems to do the opposite. Either it places your body too high, which means you have to jump in the car, or you have to step over it one leg at a time. Both options make entry difficult and inconvenient.
In addition, it is just as problematic to get out, and the same treadmill can stop rubbing on the leg or pants. Finally, the back door is quite narrow. But Jeep tries to compensate for that by adding a grip handle for extra support when going in and out.
Next is the fuel economy, with the 3.6L V6 mentioned above that only achieved 18 mpg in the tests, making it quite low in a class of fuel-consuming vehicles. For that matter, Consumer Reports’ highest-ranked mid-size SUV, the 2022 Subaru Outback, achieved 24 mpg.
Notably, there are some more fuel-efficient trim options in the range, including the plug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler 4xe. However, these are few compared to the rest of the lineup.
The last major problem the reviewer has with the car is the wind noise that it attributes to the vehicle’s boxy shape and the lack of a roof. That said, it’s worth noting that below 60 mph, this wind noise is unlikely to be a problem.
RELATED: Is the 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe better than regular Jeep Wranglers?