US automaker Jeep has unveiled its Meridian three-row SUV in India. It will be launched here in the first half of this year.As for the highlights, the four-wheeler has a head-turning look and a luxurious cabin with a long list of safety features.It is tipped to be offered with a choice of three petrol as well as diesel engines.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The Jeep Meridian is the company’s first seven-seater SUV in India and boasts around 80% localization.The company claims that the vehicle offers a combination of sophistication and class-leading performance.It is tipped to be priced competitively and will go against rivals such as Hyundai ALCAZAR, Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector Plus, Tata Safari, and the Kia Carens.
Exteriors
The car has LED headlights and alloy wheels
Jeep Meridian has a Compass and Grand Cherokee-inspired look, featuring a seven-slot grille, a front bumper with integrated LED DRLs, LED headlamps, and LED fog lamps.It is flanked by roof rails, ORVMs, thick cladding, and 17/18-inch alloy wheels.An integrated spoiler, a boot-lid mounted number plate recess, a bumper with reflectors, and horizontally positioned LED taillights grace the rear end of the SUV.
Interiors
The SUV gets seven seats and six airbags
Jeep Meridian has seven seats, a dashboard made of soft-touch materials, ventilated and power-adjustable front row seats, USB slots with fast-charging capability, and a multifunctional steering wheel.It houses a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch U-Connect 5 touchscreen infotainment system with support for OTA updates.Six airbags, hill-start assist, a 360-degree-view camera, and electronic stability control ensure the passengers’ safety.
Information
Three engine options will be offered
Jeep Meridian will run on a 1.4-liter MultiAir petrol engine (160hp/250Nm), a 2.0-liter Multi-jet diesel mill (170hp/350Nm), and a 2.4-liter Tigershark diesel unit that puts out 184hp/243Nm. Transmission duties will be handled by a 6-speed manual, a 9-speed automatic, and a 7-speed DCT gearbox.
Jeep Meridian: Pricing and availability
In India, the Jeep Meridian will carry a premium over the Compass SUV, which starts at Rs. 17.79 lakh (ex-showroom). The vehicle will be manufactured at the brand’s Ranjangaon facility in Maharashtra.
