Sometimes Consumer Reports’ reviews do not match the general opinions of the public. However, the Consumer Reports review system effectively measures predicted owner satisfaction and reliability. It shows how likely a driver will enjoy their car based on comfort, value, and overall driving experience.

Reliability measures how likely a vehicle is to drive without experiencing issues over time. Based on these criteria, Consumer Reports predicted low owner satisfaction with the following four compact SUVs. 

1. Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 

Despite sharing the name of the iconic Eclipse sports car, the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross might leave drivers disappointed. Consumer Reports noted issues with performance and low predicted reliability holding the Eclipse Cross back.

Handling is lackluster in the Eclipse Cross, partly because it handles more like a larger SUV than the compact SUV. The Eclipse Cross also struggles with acceleration, as it takes 9.9 seconds to get from 0 to 60 mph. 

Things don’t improve on the interior of the Eclipse Cross, either. Cargo space is an issue in this crossover SUV, and the front seats are uncomfortable. Visibility is also an issue on the sides and rear due to the size and shape of the windows. 

However, not every aspect of the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is negative. Consumer Reports states that it comes standard with safety features like a forward-collision warning. With a starting price of $23,695, it is also the most affordable vehicle on this list.

2. Volkswagen Tiguan compact SUV

In some regards, the Volkswagen Tiguan will likely satisfy drivers. Consumer Reports states that it has a relatively comfortable, high-quality interior and handles pretty well. It also has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for those interested in smartphone connectivity.

However, Consumer Reports gave the Tiguan an incredibly low predicted reliability rating. The predicted reliability of the 2022 Tiguan can be attributed to reliability issues with previous model years. It also has had four recalls from the NHTSA, which is unusually high for any vehicle. 

Outside of potential reliability concerns, the Tiguan has particularly slow acceleration, as it gets from 0 to 60 mph in 10.3 seconds.

3. Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass might appeal to fans on the surface because of its iconic Jeep style, but Consumer Reports states that there are a lot of problems with the Compass. Its predicted owner satisfaction score was low, primarily attributed to the Jeep’s overall poor performance. The acceleration of the Jeep Compass is slow, and its turning is awkward.

Riding in the Compass is uncomfortable due to its rough handling of bumps, and the rear seats are generally noted for being uncomfortable. The Compass’ engine is loud also, so the overall experience of driving or riding in the Compass is just unpleasant.

Predicted reliability is also not great for the 2022 Jeep Compass, but this seems to be primarily because of issues with previous Jeep models. The 2022 Compass has had one recall.

4. Jeep Cherokee is a terrible compact SUV

Out of the two Jeeps on this list, Consumer Reports seems to like the Cherokee over the Compass, but it still has several problems. Consumer Reports notes that the Jeep Cherokee is loud while driving, and its ride is stiff. The 2022 Jeep Cherokee has not had any recalls, but its predicted reliability is still low because of poor reliability with other Jeeps. 

To end things on a more positive note, though, the 2022 Jeep Cherokee has impressive acceleration for a compact SUV. It gets from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds.