The Compass has always been the highest point for Jeep in their India innings, After launching the brand with CBUs like their legendary Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, it was the Compass that actually put them in the limelight. It has been single handedly carrying forward the brand in India. A mid-life makeover gave it a shot in the arm, but there was something else needed. And here it is… the new Jeep Meridian. The Meridian is based on the Compass but is an all new SUV. Complete with three row seating and more, it will rival the Skoda Kodiaqs and the Toyota Fortuners of the world. In a market filled with SUVs today, making a mark will be no easy task. So does the Jeep Meridian stand out. I was in a hot Chandigarh to put it through its paces on the road, and off it. Here are my impressions.

Jeep Meridian Exterior

First things first. The Meridian isn’t just a longer Compass; far from it. It has been redesigned and does sport an identity of its own. The Meridian is 4,769mm long and has a wheelbase of 2782mm, that’s 146mm longer than the Compass. Upfront, the trademark seven slat Jeep front grille is flanked by slim LED headlamps with a chrome strip running across. The bonnet with the bulge gives it that butch feel that you associate with a Jeep. What I realty loved was the design of the 18 inch alloy wheels. Easily one of the best out here and bring back memories of the Abarth. Those combined with the 235/55 profile tyres give the Merdian a fantastic stance. Check out the large Meridian lettering on the front doors. There is a dual tone roof and the blackened D pillar looks sweet. The slim tail lamps give a Grand Cherokee feel too, and gives the rear end a very classy look. The Compass was a good looking SUV to begin with. The Meridian looks even better, especially the rear.