Jeep Meridian to be launched in India on March 29
What's the story
Jeep has announced that its Meridian SUV will be introduced in India on March 29. To recall, it was showcased last month. As for the highlights, the car has an imposing design and a three-row cabin with a bevy of safety features. It is expected to be offered with an option of three petrol as well as diesel engines.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The Jeep Meridian is the brand's first seven-seater SUV on our shores and boasts around 80% localization. The company claims that the four-wheeler offers a combination of class-leading performance and sophistication. It is likely to be priced competitively in India, and will take on rivals such as Hyundai ALCAZAR, Tata Safari, Kia Carens, MG Hector Plus, and the Mahindra XUV700.
Exteriors
The SUV has a chrome-accented bumper and alloy wheels
Jeep Meridian flaunts a Compass-inspired design, featuring a seven-slot grille, LED headlights, LED fog lamps, and a chrome-accentuated front bumper with integrated LED DRLs. It is flanked by roof rails, ORVMs, and 17/18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. Split-style LED taillamps, a bumper with reflectors, a boot-lid mounted number plate recess, and an integrated spoiler are available on the rear end of the vehicle.
Information
Three engine options will be available
Jeep Meridian will be fueled by a 1.4-liter MultiAir petrol engine (160hp/250Nm), a 2.4-liter Tigershark diesel motor that generates 184hp/243Nm, and a 2.0-liter Multi-jet diesel unit (170hp/350Nm). The mills will be linked to a 6-speed manual, a 7-speed DCT, and a 9-speed automatic gearbox.
Interiors
The four-wheeler gets six airbags and ventilated seats
Jeep Meridian gets a dashboard made of soft-touch materials, seven seats, ventilated and power-adjustable front row seats, a multifunctional steering wheel, and USB slots with fast-charging support. The passengers' safety is ensured by six airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, and a 360-degree-view camera. It also packs a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment panel with support for OTA updates.
Information
Jeep Meridian: Pricing and availability
In India, the Jeep Meridian will cost more than the Compass SUV, which begins at Rs. 17.79 lakh (ex-showroom). The car will be manufactured at the company's Ranjangaon factory in Maharashtra from May.