Jeep Meridian spied ahead of India launch

There will soon be a Jeep SUV that can carry two more people than the outgoing Compass. It will be called the Meridian and will share the Compass’s platform, underpinnings, and powerplant.

The Jeep Meridian seven-seater SUV is the next expected vehicle from the FCA's stable. The Meridian will be positioned above the Jeep Compass in the same segment as the Volkswagen Tiguan All Space, MG Gloster, and Toyota Fortuner.

The Meridian will be based on the heavily modified version of the Compass’ platform. A 2.0-litre turbo-diesel motor is expected to power the upcoming Meridian, with figures close to 170bhp and 350Nm. The transmission options will include a six-speed manual and a nine-speed torque converter auto. The Meridian is likely to have an all-wheel-drive setup. There are very good chances that the Jeep Meridian will miss out on a petrol variant altogether, as the seven-seater SUV will be sizeable and heavy, and a petrol motor, given its low power and torque, will not be an efficient choice for it.

The cabin experience and the dashboard layout will be similar to that of the outgoing Compass. The second row is likely to be equipped with optional captain seats, allowing the upcoming SUV to offer a six-seat alternative as well. With the addition of a third row, the Meridian is likely to have a compromised boot space; however, the third-row seats can be folded down, which would increase the cargo space. The Meridian is likely to feature a panoramic sunroof, powered front seats, an electrically adjustable steering wheel, and ventilated front seats.

The price of the Jeep Meridian will most probably be Rs 1 – 1.5 lakh higher than the price of the diesel Jeep Compass, which is between Rs 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and Rs 28.84 lakh (ex-showroom). Expect the Jeep Meridian to be launched in India by Q1 of 2022.

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