As the OP I started this thread because I was happy to see the Cherokee rated as #1 in a field of 23 SUV's. I hope the Cherokee turns out to be reliable. CR has both the Patriot and Compass at half orange (above average reliability).
If you re-read my post you may notice where I said "...outside of enthusiasts". If your seeking out a car specific forum to talk about the car because of how much you love it or you want to do some upgrades/ect. then I would consider you at least a mild enthusiast. With that, there are approximately 600 members here and that is out of over 10,000 Cherokees sold so I would say most people aren't jumping onto the forums. You are right in the aspect that there aren't a ton of people here with issues, so that is awesome! For a brand new vehicle with brand new motor and trans. you can't ask for too much more then that.That part i do not agree with. The majority of the owners on this very forum have not had any serious issues with their new truck, and are much more positive than negative.