Hey car lovers and prospective buyers in India! Are you looking for a new SUV? We know how tough that decision can be. You are probably thinking about your budget, how safe the car is, the monthly maintenance costs, what new features it offers, and of course, the company’s service network. All these are super important points when you are about to bring home your dream car. Today, we are going to dive deep into an exciting option that aims to tick many of these boxes for you: the new Jeep Meridian Track Edition 4x4 AT.

Jeep has made a name for itself with rugged yet premium SUVs, and the Meridian is their 7-seater offering designed specifically for the Indian market. The Track Edition 4x4 AT takes this a step further, combining luxury, capability, and performance. Let us explore if this premium SUV is the right fit for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Jeep Meridian Track Edition 4x4 AT comes with a robust diesel engine that is well-suited for both city drives and long highway journeys, and even some light off-roading.

• Engine Type: 2.0-litre Multijet II Turbo Diesel Engine
• Maximum Power: 172 PS (168 hp) at 3750 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 350 Nm at 1750-2500 rpm
• Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission (AT)
• Drivetrain: 4x4 (Four-wheel drive) for superior traction

Design Overview

Exterior

The Meridian Track Edition definitely looks the part of a premium, go-anywhere SUV. It carries the signature Jeep DNA with a modern touch.

• Iconic Jeep Grille: The seven-slot grille is instantly recognisable.
• Sleek LED Lighting: Slim LED headlamps and taillamps give it a sophisticated look.
• Muscular Stance: It has a strong road presence, making it look substantial and ready for adventure.
• Stylish Alloys: Unique alloy wheel designs enhance its premium appeal.
• Track Edition Touches: Expect specific badging and possibly some unique styling elements that set it apart.

Interior

Step inside, and you are greeted by a cabin that feels both luxurious and practical, designed for comfort during long rides.

• Premium Materials: High-quality soft-touch materials and leather upholstery are used throughout.
• Comfortable Seating: Offers comfortable seating for seven people, with good support.
• Thoughtful Layout: The dashboard is well-organised and user-friendly.
• Panoramic Sunroof: A large panoramic sunroof adds to the airy feel of the cabin.

Key Features

The Meridian Track Edition is packed with features designed to enhance your driving and passenger experience.

• Infotainment System: 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen infotainment with clear graphics.
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: A 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster provides all vital information clearly.
• Comfort Features: Dual-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats (in higher variants), powered driver and front passenger seats.
• Convenience: 360-degree camera for easy parking, wireless phone charging, keyless entry with push-button start.
• Audio: Premium sound system for an immersive audio experience.

What is the Ground Clearance of the Jeep Meridian Track Edition?

• The Jeep Meridian Track Edition offers a substantial ground clearance of 214 mm, making it capable of handling rough Indian roads and mild off-road trails with ease.

What is the Boot Space of the Jeep Meridian Track Edition?

• All 7 seats up: 170 litres
• 3rd row folded: 481 litres
• 2nd and 3rd rows folded: 824 litres (impressive for hauling larger items)

What are the Dimensions of the Jeep Meridian Track Edition?

• Length: 4769 mm
• Width: 1859 mm
• Height: 1698 mm
• Wheelbase: 2782 mm

Powertrain Options

While the Meridian generally comes with the 2.0L Multijet diesel engine, the Track Edition specifically focuses on the ultimate combination for enthusiasts.

• Engine: 2.0-litre Multijet II Turbo Diesel
• Transmission: 9-speed automatic transmission
• Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive (4x4) system for enhanced off-road capability and better traction in challenging conditions.

Safety Features

Jeep prioritises safety, and the Meridian Track Edition is loaded with features to keep you and your family secure.

• Airbags: 6 airbags as standard (driver, passenger, front side, curtain)
• Braking Systems: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Stability Control: Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS)
• Hill Assist: Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC)
• Parking Aids: Rear parking sensors, rear parking camera, and 360-degree camera
• Tyre Monitoring: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Higher variants may include features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, and Autonomous Emergency Braking, significantly boosting safety.

NCAP Rating Table

Safety ratings are a big concern for Indian buyers, and rightly so. Here is what we know about the Jeep Meridian:

Rivals of Jeep Meridian Track Edition 4x4 AT

When you are considering the Meridian Track Edition 4x4 AT, these are some of its key competitors in the Indian market:

• Toyota Fortuner: Known for its reliability, strong resale value, and robust build.
• Skoda Kodiaq: Offers a refined driving experience, luxurious interiors, and powerful petrol engine.
• MG Gloster: A feature-packed SUV with massive road presence and comfortable seating.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages (Pros)

• Premium Feel: Excellent interior quality and features give it a truly premium experience.
• Driving Dynamics: Offers a comfortable ride and stable handling, especially on highways. The steering is well-weighted.
• Off-road Capability: With its 4x4 system and generous ground clearance, it is genuinely capable of tackling challenging terrains.
• Safety Features: Loaded with passive and active safety features, including multiple airbags and potential ADAS.
• Stylish Design: Looks sharp and stands out with its modern yet rugged Jeep styling.
• Automatic Transmission: The 9-speed AT is smooth and responsive.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Price Point: Positioned in a premium segment, it might be on the higher side for some budgets.
• Third-Row Space: While it is a 7-seater, the third row can be a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys. Best suited for children or short trips.
• Fuel Efficiency: Being a heavy 4x4 diesel SUV, the fuel efficiency might not be the absolute best in its class, though it is competitive.
• No Petrol Option: Currently, only a diesel engine is available, which might be a deal-breaker for those preferring petrol SUVs.
• Maintenance Costs: Jeep’s service and parts can sometimes be perceived as expensive compared to mass-market brands.

Conclusion

The Jeep Meridian Track Edition 4x4 AT is a fantastic option for Indian car buyers who are looking for a feature-rich, capable, and premium 7-seater SUV. It offers a great blend of comfortable on-road manners and genuine off-road prowess, backed by solid safety features and a luxurious cabin. While the price and third-row space might be points to consider, its overall appeal, strong engine, and the iconic Jeep brand value make it a compelling choice.

If you are an adventurous family person who values safety, features, and a premium driving experience, and you are ready to invest in a robust SUV, the Meridian Track Edition 4x4 AT should definitely be on your test drive list. Do visit your nearest Jeep dealership to experience it firsthand and see if it aligns with all your car-buying considerations!