Jeep Meridian's production begins; bookings now open in India
What's the story
Jeep has started accepting bookings for its Meridian SUV in India via dealerships as well as its official website. It can be reserved against a payment of Rs. 50,000. Production of the vehicle has also started and deliveries will commence here in June. As for the highlights, the car has a sporty design, a feature-loaded cabin, and runs on a 2.0-liter diesel engine.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Seven-seater SUVs offer extra space, more comfort, and are hence very popular. All the carmakers are trying to enter this space with their own products. In India, Jeep has positioned the Meridian as a more premium model than the Compass. It also boasts a high localization level and will rival the MG Gloster and Toyota Fortuner.
Exteriors
The car sports LED headlights and 18-inch wheels
The Jeep Meridian has a lengthy sculpted hood, a seven-box grille finished in chrome, a wide air dam, narrow LED headlights with integrated DRLs, and dual-tone paintwork. On the sides, it is flanked by roof rails, black B-pillars, indicator-mounted ORVMs, flared wheel arches, and 18-inch multi-spoke alloy rims. A shark-fin antenna, a window wiper, and wrap-around taillamps are available on the rear end.
Information
It runs on a 168hp, 2.0-liter engine
The Jeep Meridian runs on a 2.0-liter diesel engine that generates a maximum power of 168hp and a peak torque of 350Nm. The motor is linked to a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic gearbox along with an all-wheel-drive system.
Interiors
The SUV gets a panoramic roof and ventilated seats
The Jeep Meridian has a spacious 7-seater cabin with two-tone black and brown upholstery, ventilated front seats, multi-zone climate control, an electric tumble function for the second-row seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a multifunctional steering wheel. It packs a wireless charger, a digital instrument cluster, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Six airbags and a 360-degree-view camera ensure the passengers' safety.
Information
Jeep Meridian: Pricing and availability
In India, the Jeep Meridian will likely carry a starting price-tag of around Rs. 30 lakh (ex-showroom). The car should be offered in two variants, namely Limited and Limited (O) and its deliveries will begin next month.
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Jeep Meridian
