Jeep, the brand with an identity that rings with off-road toughness and adventure, has been offering SUVs that are a combination of power, performance, and luxury. Its recent car, the Jeep Meridian, has stormed the SUV segment with its ideal combination of style, comfort, and off-road driving capability. A 7-seater SUV in its form, the Meridian is equally suited for families and adventure seekers, bringing with it an experience of driving that is unmatched on urban highways and difficult terrain.
In this detailed article, we are going to look at the Meridian’s design, features, engine details, off-road strengths, safety options, and pricing. At the end of reading this article, you will better understand why Meridian is distinct from other very competitive SUV offerings.
1. Design and Exterior
Bold and Elegant Aesthetics
The Jeep Meridian features a bold design philosophy, blending a confident stance with upscale aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the international bestseller Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Meridian features the brand’s iconic seven-slot grille, accompanied by sharp LED projector headlamps. The aggressive bumper and chiseled lines give it an aggressive yet refined appearance.
Dimensions and Build Quality
The SUV is 4,769mm long, 1,859mm wide, and 1,682mm tall, which means it is a roomy and well-balanced car. It boasts a 2,782mm wheelbase to provide generous cabin space and road stability. The tall ground clearance of 214mm enables it to handle tough off-road conditions with ease, further bolstering its off-road worthiness.
Exterior Features
- LED DRLs and LED Tail Lamps for superior visibility and a contemporary look.
- Dual-tone Roof and Chrome Accents for an upscale experience.
- 18-inch Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels that contribute to its stylish character.
- Functional Roof Rails for enhanced practicality on long road trips.
2. Interior and Comfort
Premium Cabin Layout
The interior of the Jeep Meridian is all about luxury and refinement, making long drives comfortable and enjoyable. The SUV features leather upholstery, premium soft-touch finishes, and a well-thought-out dashboard layout that guarantees ease of use.
Spacious 7-Seater Configuration
The Jeep Meridian provides a spacious 7-seater configuration with plenty of space for occupants in all three rows. The middle row seats feature a sliding and reclining action, while third-row seats have been designed to provide reasonable comfort for short commutes.
Technology and Infotainment
- 10.1-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System with Uconnect 5 that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- 9-speaker Alpine Sound System that delivers an immersive audio experience.
- Digital Instrument Cluster with customizable display settings.
- Wireless Charging Pad and USB ports for added convenience.
- Dual-Zone Climate Control for maximum comfort for all passengers.
3. Performance and Engine Options
The Jeep Meridian is driven by a 2.0-liter Multijet II diesel engine, which has a reputation for strong performance and fuel economy.
Engine Specifications
- Engine Type: 2.0L Multijet II Turbo Diesel
- Power Output: 170 hp @ 3,750 rpm
- Torque: 350 Nm @ 1,750-2,500 rpm
- Transmission Options: 6-speed Manual and 9-speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Driving Dynamics
Meridian features Jeep’s Selec-Terrain 4×4 system, which enables the driver to choose from various drive modes (Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud) to achieve the best performance in diverse conditions. Independent front and rear suspension provides a smooth and collected ride even on uneven surfaces.
Fuel Efficiency
The Meridian, driven by a diesel engine, delivers an average of 16-17 km/l, which makes it a frugal choice among premium SUVs.
4. Off-Road Capability
It’s a Jeep, so there’s no shortage of off-road capability, making it a great companion for enthusiasts who love going on adventures.
Important Off-Road Features:
- Selec-Terrain 4×4 System: Makes power distribution vary with terrain.
- High Ground Clearance (214mm): Facilitates smooth ride over obstacles.
- Approach and Departure Angles (20.5° and 22.6°): Provides ability on steep ascents and descents.
- 533mm Water Wading Depth: Allows easy passage through flooded waters.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Hill Descent Control for increased safety on challenging terrains.
5. Safety Features
Jeep has loaded the Meridian with a range of sophisticated safety features, making it a safe and dependable SUV for families.
Major Safety Features:
- 6 Airbags (Dual Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags)
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control
- ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control
- Rear Parking Sensors and 360-degree Camera
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with Adaptive Cruise Control
- ISO-FIX Child Seat Anchors
6. Variants and Pricing
The Jeep Meridian is offered in several variants, according to various customer needs and affordability.
Variants:
- Limited (FWD – Manual & Automatic)
- Limited (AWD – Automatic)
- Overland (AWD – Automatic)
Pricing (Approximate):
- Base Model: ₹33.40 Lakh
- Mid Variant: ₹35.30 Lakh
- Top-End Variant: ₹38.60 Lakh
(Pricing may be different based on location, taxes, and optional equipment.)
7. Jeep Meridian vs. Rivals
The Jeep Meridian is matched against some of the top 7-seater SUVs available in India, including:
- Toyota Fortuner: Reliable and retains value but does not have all premium features.
- MG Gloster: Has top-line ADAS features but is heavier.
- Skoda Kodiaq: More premium but has no diesel engine options.
- Hyundai Tucson (7-seater model – international market): Elegant but less tough.
8. Conclusion: Is the Jeep Meridian Worth It?
The Jeep Meridian is a balanced SUV that effectively integrates luxury, comfort, performance, and off-road capability. It is a great option for individuals seeking a premium 7-seater SUV with a robust road presence and legendary Jeep toughness.
Jeep Meridian vs Rivals-A Class Apart
| Feature | Jeep Meridian | Toyota Fortuner | MG Gloster | Tata Safari |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Diesel | 2.8L Diesel | 2.0L Twin-Turbo Diesel | 2.0L Diesel |
| Transmission | 6MT / 9AT | 6AT / 6MT | 8AT | 6MT / 6AT |
| Seating | 7 | 7 | 6/7 | 6/7 |
| 4×4/AWD | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Touchscreen | 10.1” | 8” | 12.3” | 10.25” |
| Price Range | ₹33 – ₹38 Lakh | ₹33 – ₹51 Lakh | ₹32 – ₹40 Lakh | ₹16 – ₹26 Lakh |
Pros:
✅ Premium design and build quality
✅ Spacious and comfortable interiors
✅ Advanced off-road capabilities
✅ Strong safety package
✅ Fuel-efficient diesel engine
Cons:
❌ No petrol engine option
❌ Third-row seating could be more spacious
For those who seek a powerful and luxurious family SUV with the heart of an off-roader, the Jeep Meridian is definitely a top contender. Whether you’re planning city commutes or adventurous road trips, this SUV promises a smooth, safe, and enjoyable ride.
