Jeep has officially launched the 7-seater Meridian in the Indian market. The Meridian is based on the same platform that houses the well-known Compass, along with some modifications to accommodate the third row. The Meridian will be available as a 7-seater and will come with one a 2L Diesel engine that drives multiple Indian SUVs. Lets’s take a deeper look into the new Jeep Meridian!
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What does the Jeep Meridian look like?
Well, it looks like a Jeep, period. The design is inspired by the larger Cherokee and it surely looks bold, strong, and huge. Even though it’s an extended Compass, the Meridian looks quite different and unique in itself. To reduce the visual bulk, the Jeep Meridian gets slimmer lights and a clean design on the exterior. It is 4769mm long, 1859mm wide, 1682mm tall, and has a wheelbase of 2794mm.
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Features on the Jeep Meridian
The Meridian gets a digital drivers’ display and a massive (and very bright) infotainment unit with wireless android auto and apple carplay connectivity. It also gets powered front seats with electrically adjustable lumbar, a powered tailgate, and dual-zone climate control. The Meridian does miss out on ventilated seats, ADAS, front parking sensors, and a couple of other things that are very standard for SUVs of this segment.
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Engine
The Meridian gets only one engine option, ie, the 2L diesel that powers the Compass as well. The one produces 168HP and 350nm torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic. The Jeep Meridian can be bought as both, a 4×2 (FWD) and a 4×4 SUV.
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Competition
Primarily, the Meridian will compete with the MG Gloster and the Toyota Fortuner. It can also be an option for buyers not looking for petrol options like the VW Tiguan and the Skoda Kodiaq.
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Pricing
Well, here’s the hiccup with the Meridian. The pricing is way too high for what the SUV offers. It starts at Rs. 29.90 Lakhs and tops out at Rs. 36.95 Lakhs (both, ex-showroom). With this, the on-road prices will roughly go upwards of Rs. 46 Lakhs! (varying from state to state).
The Meridian is no doubt an excellent SUV with commendable off-road capabilities. But, do you think that the price is too high even for the Jeep brand? Let us know in the comments below!