Jeep Meridian

Upon first glance, the Jeep Meridian immediately communicates its imposing stance and distinct styling, striking a harmonious balance between luxury and ruggedness. Unlike its cousin, the Compass, the Meridian has been extended by 364 mm and a wheelbase difference of 158 mm, allowing it to stand apart from its lineage. The seven-slat grille is more upright, while the headlamps have been slimmed down, subtly referencing the new design language evident in Jeep’s global lineup like the Grand Cherokee and Wagoneer.

The alloy wheels offer a unique pattern and are finished in dual-tone adding a custom touch right from the factory. A horizontal chrome slat on the tailgate amplifies the vehicle’s heft and pairs elegantly with slim, horizontal tail lights. While chrome accents are prevalent—possibly a nod to Indian aesthetic preferences—there’s enough scope for those who’d like a more subdued look, possibly through aftermarket customization or future variants.

Jeep has put a lot of thought into swanking up the Meridian’s cabin, successfully creating an upmarket feel. The quilted leather-finish seats are a feast for the eyes as well as a comfort for the back, while the dark-toned color palette elevates the luxurious feel. Unlike some competitors that go overboard with tech, the Meridian smartly integrates its features into an ergonomic design. A panoramic sunroof and a 10.1-inch touchscreen add to the car’s modern ambiance, while the 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster provides the driver with all the vital information in a crisp, easy-to-read display.

However, not everything is rosy; some plastic elements on the rear doors and cabin sides could be of higher quality to match the otherwise premium feel of the interior. In terms of connectivity, the Meridian is ahead of the curve with Jeep’s Uconnect suite, offering features like geofencing, remote door lock/unlock, and an in-built Jio sim providing free data services for three years. Adding to the convenience are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a wireless phone charger. With three trims—Limited (0), Limited + and Meridian Overland —the feature set varies, but rest assured, both come substantially equipped. For larger families, the all-important third row might not be as spacious as one would hope, especially for adults, but it should suffice for shorter journeys and younger passengers.

When it comes to safety, the Jeep Meridian doesn’t cut any corners. Recognizing the demanding and often unpredictable Indian road conditions, the Meridian features a robust safety cage construction, backed by high-strength steel to absorb impact energy and redirect it away from passengers. The inclusion of six airbags—front, side, and curtain—provides comprehensive protection against frontal and side impacts.

For child safety, ISOFIX child seat mounts come standard, ensuring the younger members of the family are equally secure. Equally impressive are the rain-sensing wipers and auto-dimming rearview mirror, which enhance visibility during inclement weather and night driving, respectively. Advanced parking assistance, including a 360-degree camera and sensors, negates the typical difficulties associated with parking a larger vehicle, especially in tight urban spots.

At the heart of the Jeep Meridian is its compelling range of engine options designed to cater to a wide spectrum of driving needs. The 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine is the real workhorse, producing 173 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, offering a blend of both power and efficiency. It comes mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission, ensuring seamless shifts and a well-spread gear ratio to match varied driving conditions.

The Jeep Meridian takes pride in its heritage of delivering superior off-road capabilities. With an independent suspension setup front and rear, the vehicle is equipped to handle a variety of terrains without sacrificing ride comfort. Jeep’s proprietary ‘Selec-Terrain’ system allows you to switch between various modes like Auto, Snow, Sand, and Mud, adjusting the vehicle dynamics to suit the surface you are on. On city roads, the Meridian shows its softer side. Despite its bulk, the SUV feels nimble and agile, partly due to its well-calibrated electric power steering, which adjusts its responsiveness based on the speed. The plush ride quality is maintained by a well-damped suspension system that irons out most road irregularities, making it equally comfortable for both the driver and passengers.

The Meridian doesn't shy away from its sporty inclinations either. With paddle shifters behind the steering wheel, drivers can tap into a more engaged driving experience when the mood strikes. The stability control and electronic traction control ensure that the power is effectively put down to the road or trail, allowing you to explore boundaries safely.

The Meridian is priced between Rs. 27.75 lakh to Rs. 37.15 lakh (ex-showroom, India). With its considerable local content, aggressive pricing could help the Meridian make a strong case against competitors like the Toyota Fortuner and MG Gloster.

The Meridian is offered in three trims – the Limited(0), Limited+ and Meridian Overland. For those seeking more features and tech, the Limited Option variant would be the ideal choice, given its additional offerings and superior appointments.

The primary competition for the Meridian comes from the likes of the Toyota Fortuner nd MG Gloster. However, the Meridian sets itself apart by offering an upmarket experience while retaining its off-road capabilities, making it a compelling choice in the segment. The Jeep Meridian has the potential to redefine the three-row SUV market in India. While its engine performance may leave some desiring more, its luxurious interiors, robust safety features, and competitive pricing make it a strong contender. With its arrival, Jeep has truly expanded its horizons, promising a product that balances style, substance, and capability.