Jeep Meridian 2024 Review: Unveiling the Ultimate Family SUV with Premium Features

The Jeep Meridian strikes an appealing balance between space, comfort, features, off-road talent and running costs. Take a test drive to experience its capabilities.

Driving Experience – Strong and Refined Performance

The Jeep Meridian is offered with a robust 1956cc diesel engine paired to 6-speed manual and 9-speed automatic transmissions. The engine delivers 170 bhp power and 350 Nm torque enabling strong acceleration and cruising abilities – hallmarks of Jeep SUVs.

Power delivery is smooth and linear, torque buildup strong for overtakes or surging ahead at highway speeds. The 9-speed automatic gearbox handles gear changes imperceptibly, adding to refinement. Even at higher RPMs, cabin insulation keeps engine noise well suppressed.

Ride quality is very compliant thanks to the independent suspension setup. Bad roads and undulations are handled comfortably with little judder inside. High speed stability remains surefooted with the Jeep Meridian maintaining composure at triple digit speeds. Given its sturdy ladder frame construction, some sharper bumps filter into the cabin. However, it focuses more on keeping passengers comfortable.

The electro-hydraulic power steering weighs up well as speeds increase and offers sufficient feedback. The Jeep Meridian doesn’t feel cumbersome in urban areas and can be maneuvered easily through traffic. There is some body roll expected of a heavy SUV but grip from the all-terrain tyres is assured. Overall, it strikes a fine balance between ride and handling that suits Indian conditions.

4×4 variants get Jeep’s SelecTerrain system with auto, snow, sand and mud modes that optimize the SUV’s mechanicals to match surface conditions. With low range gearing, 214mm ground clearance, and driveline disconnect, the Jeep Meridian delivers genuine off-road talent to take on Indian terrain with ease.

The cabin space makes long trips comfortable for seven occupants. Front seats get 8-way power adjust and are well-bolstered with good lumbar support. 60:40 split folding rear seats liberate boot space from 170 litres to 680 litres. Cabin storage spaces include a cooled glovebox, center armrest, and door pockets. The dual pane panoramic sunroof enhances the airy feel.

Off-roading and Adventure in Jeep Meridian

The Meridian Jeep, with its robust design and advanced features, presents an intriguing option for off-roading enthusiasts. At its core, the Meridian Jeep is built on Jeep’s legacy of rugged, off-road capable vehicles, which immediately garners attention from adventure seekers.

One of the key attributes favoring the Meridian Jeep for off-roading is its 4×4 capability, essential for tackling challenging terrains. This feature, combined with the vehicle’s impressive ground clearance, allows it to navigate through rough and uneven surfaces with relative ease. Furthermore, the Meridian Jeep is equipped with Jeep’s sophisticated terrain management system, providing drivers with the ability to adjust the vehicle’s settings to suit various off-road conditions, such as mud, sand, and rocks. This adaptability enhances its off-road prowess significantly.

The vehicle’s engine performance and torque distribution also play a pivotal role in its off-roading capabilities. The Meridian Car is designed to deliver sufficient power and torque, ensuring good traction and control in demanding off-road scenarios. Additionally, its suspension system is tuned to absorb the shocks and bumps encountered off-road, providing a more comfortable experience for the occupants.

In terms of build and durability, the Meridian Car maintains the brand’s reputation for manufacturing sturdy and durable vehicles. Its build quality ensures that it can withstand the wear and tear typical of off-road adventures.

off-road capable vehicle

Jeep Meridian is a strong contender for off-roading enthusiasts, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and reliability. Its off-roading features, combined with Jeep’s storied off-road heritage, make it a vehicle worth considering for those who love to venture off the beaten path.

How is the Meridian Jeep Against Competitors?

The Jeep Meridian competes with segment stalwarts like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan. Here is how it stacks up against key rivals:

• Pricing – Starting at Rs 29.9 lakh, the Meridian Car is competitively priced against the Fortuner and MG Gloster both of which are considerably more expensive.
• Features – A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, panoramic sunroof, powered front seats, ambient lighting, six airbags, and ADAS tech give the Meridian very generous equipment. It matches or edges out competition here.
• Space & Comfort – Less rooms in 3rd row compared with rivals is the only drawback. First-rate materials quality, the Meridian Car rates among the best alongside Fortuner and Gloster for family usage.
• Performance – The 170 bhp diesel engine delivers smooth, linear power adequate for the segment. Its segment-best 9-speed automatic provides convenience. Capabilities are on par with key rivals barring the Fortuner’s 201 bhp engine.
• Off-road Ability – With 4WD, low range gears, and electronic rear locking differential, the Jeep Meridian India delivers authentic off-road talent like the Fortuner and Gloster.
• Safety – Six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESC, hill start assist are standard. Higher variants add ADAS tech like AEB, FCW, lane keep assist etc. Safety matches the top-spec Fortuner and Gloster.
• Ownership Experience – Jeep has a reasonable service network with presence in all major cities. Owners have reported quite a few niggles in Jeep Meridian India but they are usually not a deal-breaker. Service costs, labour and parts availability is adequate at best. More widespread reach can be further improved along with manufacturing processes to ensure a more pleasant ownership experience .

Which Variant Offers the Best Value?

The Jeep Meridian is available in six variants providing buyers a choice of features and capabilities to suit priorities. Here is how the variants stack up:

2. Meridian MT – As the base variant starting at Rs 29.9 lakh, it makes do with dual airbags, manual AC and misses out on many essentials like alloy wheels or parking sensors. Appeal lies in its affordable pricing for a premium 7-seater SUV.
3. Meridian X MT – At Rs 31.29 lakh, this variant of Jeep Meridian India adds more features like automatic climate control, push button start, powered driver seat but still misses auto headlamps, cruise control or rear AC vents which modern buyers expect.
4. Meridian LT AT – Starting at Rs 33.99 lakh, this variant adds auto headlamps, cruise control, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with connected tech and power tailgate. It makes for an appealing package with the right features at a competitive price point.
5. Meridian Limited Plus AT – As the top-end variant of Jeep Meridian India priced at Rs 38.61 lakh, it offers some exclusive features like 6 airbags, wireless charging, ventilated front seats, three-zone climate control, ADAS safety and a 360-degree parking camera. The 4×4 drivetrain also enhances its off-road abilities.

Verdict –

The mid LT variant strikes the best balance between price and features. But buyers wanting the ultimate premium experience or serious mud-plugging abilities can consider the Limited Plus 4×4 AT variant.

The Jeep Meridian Ownership Experience

Here are some first-hand ownership perspectives shared by buyers after a few months and thousands of kilometres with their Jeep Meridian SUVs:

• Powerful and Refined Engine – Owners are impressed by the 2.0 litre diesel engine’s strong yet smooth power delivery. The 9-speed auto gearbox enhances drivability further. Many owners upgraded from compact SUVs and appreciate the step up in performance.
• Comfortable Family Hauler – With generous legroom and headroom on all three rows, owners highlight the Jeep Meridian’s practicality for big families. The plush ride keeps passengers comfortable over long trips on uneven roads. Accessibility to the third row is easy thanks to one-touch forward tumbling second row seats.
• Loaded with Features – From the expansive sunroof and 10.1-inch touchscreen to ambient lighting and wireless charging, owners feel top-spec Jeep Meridian India variants offer an exhaustive array of comfort, connectivity and tech features at par with more expensive luxury SUVs.
• Genuine Off-road Capability – Those who opted for the 4×4 variant mentioned its genuine go-anywhere ability thanks to robust hardware like low range gears, terrain response modes, hill descent control etc. – a boon for rural farm access.

premium SUV

Pros and Cons of Jeep Meridian

Pros

2. Butch Styling – Its imposing grille, squared-off edges and big tires mean this thing looks tough, like a classic Jeep should.
3. Roomy 3-Row Seating – Making that third row standard means more space to pack in people, pets and gear for adventures.
4. Comfort-Oriented Suspension – It’s set up for gobbling up imperfect roads rather than hard-core rock crawling. Easy living!
5. Loaded Tech Goodies – All the latest gadgets like its big UConnect 5 touchscreen, wireless charging and remote start check the tech boxes.
6. Capable Diesel Power – That smooth diesel motor has the grunt for highway cruising or towing your toys to the cabin.
7. Jeep Brand Cachet – Come on, it’s still got that iconic 7-slot grille up front that gives it instant credibility for buyers.

Cons

2. Thirsty Fuel Appetite – Those beefy off-road looks come with a big appetite for gasoline or diesel at the pump.
3. Price Creeps Up – Checking options boxes means the sticker can leap rather quickly into luxury SUV territory.
4. Heavy Handling – It steers and leans into corners like the big, heavy SUV it is rather than a sporty carver.
5. Tight Third Row – That back bench is best suited to small kids and occasional use rather than full-sized adults.
6. No Hybrid Option – No gas/electric version offered yet while rivals add hybrid and EV options to the mix.
7. Unknown Reliability – Its long-term dependability is still unproven on Indian roads compared to established models.

Caring for Your Jeep Meridian

To retain the Jeep Meridian’s capabilities and reliability long term, following some basic maintenance best practices is advised:

• Follow the service schedule diligently every 10,000 km or 1 year even if it seems unnecessary to maximize longevity.
• Inspect brake pad thickness and rotor condition every 30,000 km and flush brake fluid once in 3 years to ensure safe braking performance.
• Check tyre pressures and wheel alignment every 10,000 km to prevent premature tyre wear or damage from rough Indian roads.
• Detail the leather seats, interior plastics, glass surfaces twice a year to keep the cabin looking fresh using protectants.
• In regions with high dust levels, inspect the engine air filter every 5,000 km instead of 10,000 km to ensure optimal engine performance.
• Use engine oils meeting ACEA C2/C3 spec for diesel SUVs to maximize engine longevity.

Following such care along with Jeep’s scheduled maintenance ensures Jeep Meridian maintains its capabilities and appearances for years.

Customizing the Jeep Meridian in India

Here are some popular accessories and styling options Jeep Meridian owners can consider:

• Chrome Accessories like window visors, fog lamp garnish, side mouldings etc add flash while enhancing street presence.
• Alloy Wheel Upsize to 20 or 22 inches with low-profile tyres transforms the SUV’s side profile dramatically.
• LED Light Bar mounted on the roof accentuates the off-road DNA and comes handy during rural night drives.
• Dual-tone Exterior Paint with a blacked-out roof lends a sporty contrast along with customized decals.
• Body Kit with add-on lip spoilers and side skirts give it a lowered street-SUV look and improved aerodynamics.
• Rear Entertainment System with drop-down video screens and gaming consoles optimize the spacious cabin.
• Premium Sound System upgrades by JBL, Infinity provide an audio experience matching the premium interiors.

The possibilities are endless for an aftermarket-friendly premium SUV like the Jeep Meridian India. Personalize it to stand out from the crowd.

Key Safety Technologies Explained

The Jeep Meridian offers safety through the following technologies:

• Six Airbags – Dual front, side curtain and side airbags provide all-round impact protection.
• ABS and EBD – Prevents skidding under hard braking while balancing braking force across wheels.
• ESC – Detects loss of traction and applies brakes automatically to stabilize the SUV.
• Hill Descent Control – Automatically controls braking while descending steep inclines off-road, preventing the SUV from rolling away downhill.
• Rain Brake Support – Periodically applies brakes in wet conditions to wipe away water buildup for better braking performance.
• Rear Cross Path Detection – Alerts drivers backing up of approaching vehicles across the rear path to avoid collisions.
• Forward Collision Warning – Triggers a visual and audio alert if the SUV is approaching the vehicle ahead too fast due to distracted driving.

Together with sturdy construction, these technologies enhance safety for Jeep Meridian India owners and passengers.

Conclusion – A Capable Premium SUV for Families

With the new Meridian, Jeep India finally has a made-in-India premium 7-seater SUV to take on rivals like the Fortuner and Gloster. Blending butch styling, premium interiors, generous equipment, muscular performance and genuine off-road hardware at an attractive price point, the Meridian is a compelling choice for Indian families wanting a do-it-all SUV.