Jeep Meridian launched at Rs 29.90 lakh

The Jeep Meridian can do the 0 – 100 km/h sprint in just 10.8 seconds and attain a top speed of 198km/h. While doing so, it can also return up to 16.2km/l!

The much-awaited Jeep Meridian has been launched in India at an introductory starting price of ₹29.90 lakh (ex-showroom). There are two trims to choose from – Limited and Limited (O). In total, the Jeep Meridian offers two trims and five variants – Limited MT 4x2, Limited AT 4x2, Limited (O) MT 4x2, Limited (O) AT 4x2, and Limited (O) AT 4x4. Here's a look at the variant-wise pricing of the Meridian:

For those unfamiliar with the Meridian, it's a seven-seater version of the Compass, with three rows of seats, more equipment, and a slightly different exterior design (a six-seater version is yet to be confirmed). Jeep opened bookings for the Meridian on 3rd May – the day it went into production at its Ranjangaon facility. Customer deliveries of the SUV are expected to begin sometime next month.

Powering the Meridian is the 2.0-litre four-cylinder Multijet II turbo diesel engine of the Compass. In both models, it develops 168bhp and 350Nm of torque. There are two gearboxes to choose from – a nine-speed torque converter automatic and a six-speed manual. While the latter is on sale as front-wheel-drive (FWD) only, the automatic gearbox gets both FWD and all-wheel-drive (AWD) options.

Unlike the three-row derivatives of five-seat SUVs we've seen so far, there are enough differences between the Meridian and the Compass. Dimension-wise, the Meridian is 364mm longer, 41mm wider, and 42mm taller than its smaller sibling. The length increase has also resulted in a healthy 158mm increase in the wheelbase.

In terms of features, the Meridian is loaded with some top-of-the-shelf equipment. Some of the premium bits on offer include a powered tailgate and a nine-speaker Alpine audio system. Most other features are also carried over from the Compass, like the 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen infotainment system (with wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay connectivity), wireless charging, power-adjustable front seats, a 360-degree parking camera, multiple drive modes (Sand, Mud, Snow & Auto), six airbags as standard across all variants, hill-start, and descent control.

At this price point, the Meridian will lock horns with rivals like the Skoda Kodiaq, MG Gloster, and Toyota Fortuner.

Read more:

Jeep Meridian Review: First Drive

2021 Jeep Compass Long Term Reports