Jeep Meridian

Positives: This 2.0-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel engine makes 186bhp/350Nm and its clatter is well-masked inside and the vibrations on the steering are minimal. Although 168bhp may not sound much, it powers this 1.8-tonne vehicle easily; accelerating from zero to 100kmph in 10.8 seconds (claimed). The nine-speed torque converter automatic gearbox works well with this engine, offering smooth gearshifts. Independent front and rear suspension and Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) flatten road imperfections with confidence and perfection. It is not challenging to drive despite being lengthy, even on reasonably curvy roads, due to the precise and effortless steering. The 4x4 hardware exemplifies its capabilities, along with 203mm ground clearance, 18-inch wheels and competent approach, departure, and break-over angles. Negatives: Not a quick automatic transmission as there's a slight delay in downshifting gears under heavy acceleration and using manual mode makes sense. Jeep Meridian Key Specifications: Fuel Type Diesel Engine 1956 cc Turbocharged Transmission Automatic (TC) Power 168 bhp Torque 350 Nm Read more

Positives: Its affordable five-seater base model has 670 litres of boot space and 60:40 folding rear seats to expand capacity. The 2025 model has a more feature-loaded top-end ‘Overland’ version, which is equipped with Level-2 ADAS functionalities. Its soft-touch materials, good quality plastic, and comfortable electrically-operated seats with ventilation enhance comfort levels. There's a 10.1-inch infotainment with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which is easy to navigate through and is well integrated into the dashboard for ease of use. It also gets a 10.2-inch digital instrument panel with bright colour graphics, which looks premium. The Alpine sound system sounds good, there's a wireless charging pad, along with Type-A and Type-C charging ports in the front. Negatives: The base model does not get a sunroof and misses out on other features like ventilated front seats and wireless charging. The Meridian could have been equipped with rear window sunblinds for better passenger comfort. The charging port in the second row is limited to a Type-A only (no Type-C port) and there are no ports for third-row occupants. The third-row seats are best for children and can accommodate adults only for small journeys. Read more

Positives: The Meridian shows off Jeep's iconic grille, unmistakable squared-off wheel arches, and a unique dual-tone floating roofline effect. Attractive spider-like 18-inch alloys are complementing the premium dual-tone chrome-gloss black look. Has high-quality paint shades called Brilliant Black, Pearl White, Magnesio Grey, Galaxy Blue, Techno Metallic Green, Velvet Red, and Silvery Moon. While base models are offered with Seal Grey vinyl seat upholstery, the higher versions get leather with attractive stitch patterns, enhancing the cabin aura. The quality of materials along with the levels of fit and finish are very good, justifying the price tag. Negatives: The 2025 Jeep Meridian looks the same as before and could have had some exciting visual upgrades. Read more

Positives: The top-end ‘Overland’ variant comes with an ADAS suite with 10 plus safety features like Lane Keep Assist and Collision Mitigation braking. All versions get six airbags, ABS with EBD, traction control, electronic stability control, hill start assist, and electronic roll mitigation. There is an electronic parking brake, all-passenger seatbelt alert, front driver and passenger detection system, 360-degree camera, and tyre pressure monitoring. Negatives: Although the Jeep Meridian has not been tested by the NCAP safety authorities, it is based on the Compass which scored five stars in the NCAP crash test. Read more

The 2.0-litre four-cylinder Multijet diesel engine makes 168bhp of power and 350Nm of torque. The front-wheel drive (FWD) trim gets a choice between a six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic (TC) gearbox. The manual gearbox is only available on the FWD trim. Key Specifications: Fuel Type Diesel Engine 1956 cc Turbocharged Transmission Manual & Automatic (TC) Mileage (User Reported) 14 kmpl Seating Capacity 5 & 7 Seat options Power 168 bhp Torque 350 Nm Read more