Judging by Jeep’s introduction of the Meridian, it looks set to compete with the likes of the Skoda Kodiaq, MG Gloster and Toyota Fortuner. This is an odd place to be, considering the cars mentioned above are so different from each other. While Jeep hasn’t yet announced the pricing of the Meridian, we expect it to start in the mid-to-high range of Rs 30 lakh from the old dealership. The Compass is priced high and we really hope Jeep doesn’t go too high on the Meridian.
Exterior:
Design and styling
- At first glance, to the untrained eye, it may look like nothing more than a long-wheelbase Compass. But take a closer look at the body and you’ll see the subtle design of the Compass; there are new cuts and creases, such as the difference between the hood and the fenders. The grille and head are new, as is the bumper and everything inside.
- The design and styling changes dramatically as you step through the door, and you start to notice the difference between the Meridian and the Compass. The three-quarter styling at the rear is boxy, with straighter lines and boxy design cues. The roof doesn’t drop, but it does stop as quickly as possible, which led to the addition of a nearly 90-degree rear window. It’s clear that the Meridian’s styling (especially the rear) is inspired by its bigger sibling, the Grand Cherokee.
- The Meridian is around 4796mm long, making it longer than the Compass at 4405mm. It’s also around 40mm wider and 40mm longer than its smaller sibling. But the most important thing is the wheelbase; the Meridian’s wheelbase is 2782mm, making it around 146mm longer than the Compass, making it considerably longer than the Compass. wheels and tyres
- The Meridian rides on large 18-inch wheels shod with 235/55 R18 Bridgestone tyres. Despite its size, the Meridian looks oddly tireless in photos. However, unlike the MG Hector, which often seems to be swept away on social media, it looks very similar.
- ground clearance
- Basically, the Meridian seems to benefit from a higher, more elevated stance than the Compass, and we’re glad Jeep did this, because the lower stance will give the Meridian a full/wagon-like profile, which will be credited with the square rear end and overall proportions. The Meridian has a ground clearance of 214mm; that’s 36mm more than the Compass.
Interior:
Cabin design and quality
- Step into the Meridian and you’ll be greeted by a stylish and well-designed interior. Apart from the plastic cladding below the belt, the interior is generally a very nice place to be. The details of perforated coffee brown leather and brushed metal pieces, mixed with black plastic of varying quality levels, add elegance to the Meridian only above the belt.
- For the most part, the overall look and feel is good. However, there are some poor cuts and rough, hard black plastic that turns grey at the slightest dust and dirt. We did notice some creaks and odd rattles coming from the press vehicle, especially when driving over rough roads. Compass owners have been complaining about rattles and squeaks lately, so you might expect to see that in the Meridian. However, the Meridian’s well-designed interior makes up for most of its shortcomings.
- One good observation, especially about the dashboard; most cars that undergo a mid-life refresh won’t need a completely new interior. But FCA seems to be taking a different approach, which is nothing new. All models, from the Palio and Sienna to the Punto and Linea, receive new interior appointments in their mid-life updates. Fortunately, this trend continues today, with the new Compass/Meridian dial being the latest beneficiary.
- Driving position and ergonomics
- It goes without saying that the best seats in the Meridian are the driver’s seat or the front seat. The front seats are supportive and supportive, providing great comfort and additional support from the ventilation, which is a big plus on a hot day. However, the range of motion up front is limited, and both the driver and passenger will be comfortable in their seats. Location and comfort
- The wide doors now open to 80 degrees, which is ideal for accessing the second row of seats. When you open the wide door, you immediately see the thick door. The second seat is long and has good thigh support, but you can’t expect great comfort because the seat isn’t so cuddly that it hugs the occupants. The interior is only slightly larger than the Compass, but the second row seems larger than the Compass in terms of overall space. Oddly, the Meridian’s larger footprint doesn’t seem to translate into a larger cabin. Second-row legroom is almost usable for tall passengers, especially if there are people of equal height in the front seat. It’s also nice that the second seat can be adjusted to achieve different recline angles. But best of all is the second-row split feature and touch-and-tumble feature designed to provide access to the Meridian’s third row.
