Highlights: –
- Jeep Compass-based 7-seater SUV will be called ”MERIDIAN”.
- It is already available for sale in Brazil.
- Likely to be offered with both petrol and diesel engines.
- Will go up against the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and Skoda Kodiaq.
Jeep India has finally confirmed that it’s upcoming offering for the Indian market will be a full-size SUV that will be christened as ‘Meridian’. It is essentially a Jeep Compass-based three-row SUV that was globally revealed last year in Brazil with the moniker ”Commander”.
Fun fact: Mahindra has already trademarked the Commander nameplate in India, and so the Jeep chose a different title for its upcoming SUV.
Also Read: Toyota Fortuner Commander Revealed; Will It Launch In India?
Jeep Meridian – What do the teaser video reveal?
The latest teaser shows Meridian tackling the diverse nature and terrain of our country. However, it doesn’t reveal anything much about its design, features, and other details. But we can clearly sense that it draws its design cues from the Jeep Compass and Grand Cherokee.
Jeep Meridian – What to expect?
- Exterior design and dimensions: The Indian-spec Jeep Meridian is expected to look similar to the global-spec Jeep Commander, featuring the brand’s signature seven-slat grille up front, flanked by sleeker rectangular-shaped LED headlamps. The other notable features will include squared-out wheel arches, 19-inch alloy wheels, a roof-integrated spoiler, and slim LED tail lamps connected by a chrome strip, rounding off the overall macho appearance.
- Dimensions: – Similar to the Commander, this too will be a 7-seater offering that is expected to be 4769mm long (with 2794mm wheelbase), 1859mm wide, and 1682mm tall.
- Interior: – Meridian’s interior will be identical to the Compass. However, it may get a different colour scheme and textures for the dashboard and leather & suede upholstery.
- Key Features: – Expect Jeep Meridian to be a feature-loaded offering, with notable inclusion like a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, Alexa virtual assistant, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, power-adjustable driver & passenger seats, wireless phone charger, panoramic sunroof, 10-speaker 450W Harman Kardon sound system, electronic tailgate, multiple terrain modes, and most importantly the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that should include active safety features like adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and park assist, etc.
- Engine and Gearbox: – We reckon Jeep to offer Meridian with Compass’s its tried-&-tested 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel (probably in a retuned state) and Wrangler’s 268PS 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. Transmission options could include a 6-speed manual with a front-wheel drivetrain and a 9-speed automatic transmission with an all-wheel drivetrain.
- Competition: – The Jeep Meridian will square off against the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and the recently launched Skoda Kodiaq.
