There may not be a car-buying crystal ball to predict the future, but Consumer Reports is pretty spot on when predicting owner satisfaction ratings. Sometimes, the car and pickup truck shopping public doesn’t always agree with what the CR team has to say about certain vehicles. However, the predicted ownership satisfaction, which is calculated differently and can sometimes differ from the CR team’s overview of a car, is almost always on point.
Sometimes Consumer Reports weighs in and agrees with the sentiments of actual vehicle owners. If you’re looking at 2022 compact pickup trucks, keep reading. Here are two excellent examples of 2022 model compact pickup trucks that Consumer Reports likes and predicts consumers will love too.
What does the Owner Satisfaction category actually rank?
One of the pillars of a Consumer Reports ranking and official overview is the Ownership Satisfaction rating. It’s rightfully called that distinction because it’s derived from actual vehicle owner survey responses that CR collects every year. The scores are based on the opinions of consumers driving those specific vehicles regarding driving experience, comfort, value, and styling. More importantly, the Consumer Reports survey asks car, truck, and SUV owners whether or not they’d make the same auto purchase again. Those responses lie at the heart of the Ownership Satisfaction ratings.
So, now that you know what goes into the CR ownership satisfaction ratings, you’ll want to know which two compact pickup trucks come out ahead. These are two compact pickup truck models that the CR teams like and also think future owners will love.
1. Honda Ridgeline
2022 Honda Ridgeline RTL-E | American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
It may not be a surprise to learn that one of the two top excellent compact pickup trucks in ownership satisfaction is the 2022 Honda Ridgeline. Consumer Reports says this “car-based truck” is smart, providing a comfortable ride. The cabin is “quiet and well-finished.” In the Predicted Ownership Satisfaction realm, Honda Ridgeline owners gave rave reviews in their surveys for acceleration and handling, styling, value, and comfort, right down to the seats and climate control. More impressively, more than 80% of those surveyed said they would buy this compact pickup again.
The 2022 Honda Ridgeline is equipped handsomely with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, capable of hitting a 0 to 60 mph time of 7.3 seconds. Additionally, it’ll tow up to 5,000 lbs. CR recommends the “sweet spot,” and the best version is the RTL trim, with its leather interior and power driver’s seat extras.
2. Ford Maverick
The second compact pickup truck that both Consumer Reports and truck owners appreciate equally is the 2022 Ford Maverick. This new blue oval entry is based on the Ford Bronco and the Ford Escape. With a starting MSRP of just under $20,000, it’s also a fan favorite in affordability. However, Consumer Reports applauds this pickup’s “competent ride handling” along with its visibility, maneuverability, and hybrid fuel economy. When it comes to predicted ownership, existing owners also love this truck. More than 70% say they’d repurchase it.
With its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and output of 191 hp, or the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 200 horsepower, this little truck can do big things. You’ll appreciate the Ford Maverick’s 4,000 lbs towing rating, too. CR recommends the hybrid version as the best to get.
So, as you explore your options for a new compact pickup, add the 2022 Honda Ridgeline and the 2022 Ford Maverick to your list. Both trucks earn high marks with Consumer Reports. Additionally, they both also top the segment in Predicted Ownership Satisfaction, with more existing owners citing they’d buy again. When actual truck owners and the CR team agree, you’re almost guaranteed to love the results, too.