If you’re in the market for an executive three-row SUV, the Jeep Meridian comes across as a competent offering. Launched in 2022, the Meridian uses the same underpinnings as the Compass but gets unique body panels and a longer wheelbase to accommodate an extra row of seats. Over the years, Jeep has ensured that the Meridian stays up to speed with the competition through variant rejigs, feature additions, and special-edition versions. If the Meridian is on your radar, we present reasons why it’s worth buying, along with reasons to look elsewhere.
Reasons to buy the Jeep Meridian
Outstanding ride and handling balance
Thanks to an independent suspension setup with Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) and Hydraulic Rebound Stoppers (HRS), the Meridian takes rough road surfaces in its stride. Ride quality on the Meridian is phenomenal, as it remains remarkably stable on any road surface it travels on. On the other hand, minimal body roll and accurate steering with good feedback help the Meridian shine when it comes to handling.
Impeccable highway manners
The Meridian’s 170hp/350Nm turbo-diesel mill delivers power linearly and is quite torquey. Combined with its supple ride quality from its beefy suspension and tall gearing from its 9-speed automatic gearbox, the Meridian makes for a brilliant highway car.
Excellent off-road capability
The Meridian’s outstanding driving dynamics aren’t just limited to the tarmac; it handles off-road equally well. Unlike its rivals that offer an AWD drive layout, the Meridian stands out with a proper 4×4 layout. Being a Jeep SUV, the off-road capabilities of the Meridian are exceptional, and it offers multiple off-road modes along with a low-range transfer case. We’ve extensively tested its off-road ability and came away impressed. Though owners may not use the Meridian’s 4×4 system often, it’s nice to know that its capabilities have your back if you do go off-road.
Reasons not to buy the Jeep Meridian
Lack of engine options
Powering the Meridian is the same 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine that also does duty in the smaller Compass SUV. There’s no petrol engine on offer, which could likely deter a section of buyers who have moved on from diesels. Rivals like the Kia Sorento offer a turbo-petrol strong-hybrid engine in addition to a diesel.
Cramped third-row seat
Though the Meridian’s first and second rows offer a comfortable seating experience, the same can’t be said for its third row. Accessing the third row is easy thanks to the tumble function of the second-row seats, but the space on offer is disappointing compared to other 7-seat SUVs. The seat is placed low on the floor, leading to a ‘knees-up’ seating experience. Additionally, because lower variants lack a sliding function for the second-row seats, foot space also takes a hit. Overall, the third row of the Meridian is best reserved for kids or kept folded for more boot space.
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