In India’s rapidly evolving SUV market, where space, power, technology, and luxury define buying decisions, the Jeep Meridian has emerged as a serious contender in the premium 7-seater SUV segment. Positioned above the Jeep Compass and drawing inspiration from its global sibling, the Jeep Commander, the Meridian brings American ruggedness, European finesse, and modern-day practicality into a single package. Whether you’re driving through bustling city streets or embarking on off-road adventures, the Meridian promises an experience that blends capability and class.
In this comprehensive blog, we’ll take a closer look at the Meridian—its design, features, performance, safety, variants, pricing, and how it compares to other SUVs in its segment. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Bold and Premium Design That Turns Heads
The Jeep carries a bold stance and unmistakable Jeep DNA. It is a longer and more spacious SUV than the Compass, yet it retains the muscular design that enthusiasts adore.
Exterior Highlights:
- Signature 7-slot Jeep grille with chrome accents
- Slim LED projector headlamps with DRLs
- Strong shoulder lines and square wheel arches
- 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
- Chrome elements on the window line and tailgate
- LED tail lamps and a commanding rear design
Its road presence is immense, and its proportions are perfectly suited for a premium SUV with three-row seating. The design is functional yet stylish, exuding authority on the road.
2. Spacious and Upmarket Interiors
Step inside, and the Meridian welcomes you with a luxurious and well-appointed cabin. Designed to cater to families, long-distance travellers, and SUV lovers alike, the interiors are a mix of leather, soft-touch materials, and intelligent tech.
Interior Features:
- Dual-tone black and brown theme with ventilated leather seats
- 10.1-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- Powered front seats with memory function
- 6- and 7-seater configurations
With three-row seating, the second-row captain seats (optional) offer limousine-like comfort, while the third row is usable for adults on short trips and ideal for kids. Foldable second and third rows increase boot capacity and usability.
3. Engine and Performance: Built for Indian Roads
Under the hood, the Meridian features a powerful and efficient 2.0-litre Multijet II diesel engine, which also powers the Compass and several other Fiat-Chrysler models globally.
Engine Specifications:
- Engine: 2.0L Multijet II Diesel
- Power Output: 170 PS
- Torque: 350 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 9-speed torque converter automatic
- Drive Options: Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
The 9-speed automatic provides seamless shifts and makes long highway drives and city commutes smooth. The Meridian also excels in mild off-roading thanks to its Jeep Active Drive 4×4 system, which includes terrain modes like Snow, Sand/Mud, and Auto.
4. Ride Quality and Handling: Comfort on Every Terrain
Despite its size, the Meridian handles remarkably well. Jeep has tuned the suspension to Indian conditions, offering a plush ride on highways and strong composure over potholes and uneven surfaces.
Ride Highlights:
- Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers
- Independent suspension setup
- Good high-speed stability
- Minimal body roll for a 7-seater
The steering is light for city use but weighs up nicely at highway speeds. Whether you’re tackling mountain roads or cruising on expressways, the Meridian feels confident and composed.
5. Technology and Infotainment
Tech lovers will appreciate the intuitive and connected features inside the Meridian.
Key Features Include:
- 10.1-inch UConnect infotainment screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Alexa voice support
- Connected car technology with Jeep Life app
- Built-in navigation with OTA updates
- Wireless charging pad
- Premium 9-speaker Alpine sound system
6. Advanced Safety Suite
Jeep has equipped the Meridian with top-tier safety features, making it a dependable choice for families.
Safety Features:
- 6 airbags standard across variants
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- All-speed traction control
- Hill Start Assist & Hill Descent Control
- 360-degree camera with dynamic guidelines
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
In addition to this, the body structure is reinforced with high-strength steel, offering enhanced crash protection.
7. Variants and Pricing
The Jeep is offered in multiple variants to suit different preferences and budgets.
Variants:
- Limited MT (FWD)
- Limited AT (FWD)
- Limited (O) AT (FWD)
- Limited (O) AT AWD
Price Range (Ex-showroom, India): Rs. 33.40 lakh to Rs. 38.60 lakh
Jeep also offers various accessories and customisation options to enhance the SUV’s practicality and style.
8. Ownership Experience and Maintenance
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Meridian is the peace of mind it brings. Jeep has expanded its service network across India, ensuring better reach for owners.
Ownership Benefits:
- 3 years / 1,00,000 km warranty (extendable)
- Roadside assistance (RSA) included
- Jeep Wave customer program for premium service
- Jeep Care maintenance packages
These benefits contribute to lower running costs and improved customer satisfaction over time. The SUV is also well-regarded for its build quality, adding to its reliability.
9. Pros and Cons of the Jeep Meridian
Pros:
- Premium and commanding design
- Comfortable ride and great highway manners
- Strong diesel engine with 4×4 capability
- Feature-rich and tech-loaded interior
- Jeep brand appeal and build quality
- Trusted safety and durability
Cons:
- No petrol engine option
- Third-row space is limited for tall adults
- Slightly premium pricing compared to some rivals
10. Competition Check: How It Stands Against Rivals
The Jeep competes in the hotly contested premium 7-seater SUV segment. Here’s how it compares:
| Model | Engine Type | Drivetrain | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Meridian | 2.0L Diesel | FWD/AWD | Rs. 33.40 L |
| Toyota Fortuner | 2.8L Diesel | RWD/4WD | Rs. 33.43 L |
| MG Gloster | 2.0L Diesel | RWD/4WD | Rs. 38.80 L |
| Skoda Kodiaq | 2.0L Petrol | AWD | Rs. 39.99 L |
| Hyundai Tucson | 2.0L Diesel | AWD | Rs. 31.90 L |
The Meridian offers a unique balance of luxury, off-road capability, and urban practicality compared to its rivals.
Final Verdict: Is the Jeep Meridian Worth Buying in 2025?
If you are looking for a premium 7-seater SUV with bold styling, Jeep’s off-road heritage, powerful diesel performance, and loaded features, then the Meridian is a top contender. It appeals to buyers who want something more distinctive than the usual Fortuner or Gloster and appreciate Jeep’s global legacy.
Whether you’re a family traveller, weekend explorer, or city commuter, the Meridian delivers a perfect mix of versatility and premium appeal. It may not be the most spacious in the third row, but for everything else—comfort, tech, safety, and road presence—it delivers in style.
With a powerful engine, off-road prowess, and a luxurious feature list, the Meridian is more than just an SUV—it’s a statement of lifestyle and adventure.