The long-awaited Jeep Meridian 3-row SUV will finally make its India debut on March 29, 2022. The SUV will go on sale in the country in May this year. The company will also launch the new locally-assembled Grand Cherokee in India before the end of 2022.
The Jeep Meridian will rival the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour and the MG Gloster. It is basically the 3-row 7-seater version of the Compass, and is already on sale in select international markets as Jeep Commander. However, this name is already trademarked by Mahindra. The “Meridian” name is inspired by the line that passes through the length of India connecting different states and cultures.
The upcoming Jeep Meridian will be powered by the same 2.0-litre MultiJet II diesel engine that powers the Compass. While powering the Compass, this engine produces 173bhp and 350Nm of torque. Jeep is expected to calibrate the engine to produce extra power, close to 200bhp. Transmission options could include a 6-speed manual and a 9-speed automatic. While the manual version will get 4×2 drivetrain system, the automatic SUV will come with both 4×2 and 4×4 setup.
The new Jeep Meridian will also receive a petrol derivative at a later stage. The vehicle could get the 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine, which will also power the Compass. This engine is capable of producing 187bhp of power and 270Nm of torque. It is the same powertrain that powers the global Compass and Commander.
The Jeep Meridian looks largely identical to the global Commander; however, Jeep will make some changes to keep things fresh in the market. It comes with a new, sleeker LED projector headlamps with LED DRLs, a 7-slat grille and a flat bonnet along with squarish wheel arches. The rear profile seems heavily inspired by the bigger Jeeps including the Grand Wagoneer and the Grand Cherokee.
The Jeep Meridian will be similar in size as the Commander. It measures 4,769mm in length, 1,859mm in width and 1,682mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,794mm. The wheelbase has been increased by 158mm to accommodate a longer body. Compared to the Compass, the new Meridian is around 364mm longer, 41mm wider and 42mm taller. Inside the cabin, it will get a 10.1-inch infotainment system. It will be offered in 6-and 7-seat options with former having captain seats in the second row.
