Photography by:- Siddharth Dadhe


As the Jeep Meridian graced our headquarters in Pune, the anticipation was palpable. Managing Ed Snehal, a fervent admirer of the Ford Endeavour and Toyota Fortuner, took the keys from the Jeep India team, signalling the dawn of a new contender in the full-size SUV arena. With the Endeavour bowing out of the Indian market and the Fortuner’s escalating price, the Meridian steps into the limelight, promising to be a game-changer. In this detailed road test, we delve into the Meridian’s nuances, comparing it not only to its younger sibling, the Compass but also to the Toyota Fortuner and the now-absent Ford Endeavour. Snehal, with a penchant for the Fortuner, found herself at a crossroads when the Endeavour bid adieu and the Fortuner became a budgetary challenge. The Meridian, with its promise of full-size SUV glory, beckoned her. But can it truly be an alternative to her beloved Fortuner or the other rivals in the segment? Well, we are ready to unravel those answers for you.

Exterior Elegance
The Meridian is not just a stretched Compass; it’s a visual symphony of extended wheelbase and revamped body panels. Stretching at 4,769mm, a substantial 364mm longer than the Compass, the Meridian asserts dominance with a wheelbase of 2,782mm, surpassing even the Fortuner. The exterior exudes Grand Cherokee vibes, showcasing a seven-slot grille adorned with chrome, a two-tone roof, and eye-catching 18-inch alloys. It’s not just a full-size SUV; it’s a style statement.

Interior Sophistication
Step inside the Meridian, and the familiarity of the Compass welcomes you, but with a distinctive touch. The brown-and-black colour scheme, combined with reprofiled seats, adds a touch of elegance. The dashboard boasts a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch infotainment system with wireless connectivity, and a suite of features, making every journey a delightful experience. While the middle row shines with improved seats and higher positioning, the third row leans towards practicality for kids or luggage, rather than adult comfort.

Engine and Performance
Beneath the hood lies the tried-and-true 170hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine from the Compass. Mind you, this is the only engine option available with several transmission options like the 6-speed manual or the 9-speed auto for the 4×2 variants and the 9-speed auto only for the 4×4 top-of-the-line variant. However, the Meridian undergoes a power transformation with a remapped ECU and tweaked engine calibrations. The result is a more measured power delivery for a smoother ride. The variant on the test we had was the 4×4 top-of-the-line mated to a 9-speed automatic gearbox, which while leaning towards leisurely shifts, transforms the Meridian into a comfortable cruiser, excelling on highways and showcasing commendable dynamics.

Ride and Handling Excellence
The Meridian not only inherits the Compass’s stellar ride and handling but elevates it to unprecedented heights. The suspension setup, with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) and Hydraulic Rebound Stoppers (HRS), offers unparalleled stability on any surface. While maintaining a degree of firmness, the Meridian boasts increased compliance compared to the Compass, resulting in a more settled experience for passengers.

The handling prowess is further accentuated by minimal body roll, precise steering, and confidence-inspiring cornering. On the off-road front, the Meridian takes centre stage, effortlessly conquering everything from steep slopes to water troughs, underscoring its Jeep legacy.

Should you choose the Meridian?
The Meridian emerges as a highly capable SUV, seamlessly blending on-road comfort with off-road prowess. Its well-crafted cabin, coupled with a versatile third row, makes it a compelling option. While the absence of a petrol variant might give some buyers pause, the Meridian’s embodiment of Jeep DNA, striking aesthetics, and urban-friendly manoeuvrability solidify its standing as a well-rounded package. Priced competitively and undercutting the Fortuner, the Meridian defines itself with a unique set of talents in this segment, with starting prices at Rs 33.60 lakh for the 4×2 manual, which goes up to Rs 39.66 lakh for the 4×4 top-of-the-line dubbed the Overland variant.

In the realm of full-size SUVs, the Jeep Meridian emerges not just as a contender but as a triumphant force. Its charismatic design, practical interiors, and exceptional performance make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and capable ride. If you’re in search of a full-size SUV that not only meets but exceeds expectations, the Meridian beckons, promising a journey filled with style, comfort, and unmatched capability. It’s time to embrace the road in the epitome of SUV brilliance – the Jeep Meridian.