The 2.0-litre “MultiJet II” four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine in the Jeep Meridian 4×4 from parent FCA is a proven performer, making 170 hp and 350 Nm. However, the “9HP” nine-speed automatic transmission is not the sharpest and feels slow at some stages, particularly when urgent overtakes are needed. It’s not the engine, because I noticed the same thing in the Discovery Sport D200 as well—it holds on to a gear when unnecessary and causes the engine to rev up close to its red-line. I cannot say if there is a coherency issue, turbo-lag and odd maps, or a misunderstanding with the traction control, but it mars an otherwise great experience. Drive more gently with progressive pedal inputs and everything seems A-okay.
The 4×4 system is electronically controlled. There is a 4WD low-range button and a 4WD lock button. The Selec-Terrain modes available are Auto, Snow, and Sand/Mud, the last of which engages the “4WD Lock” option to get out of boggy situations. Add the 214-mm ground clearance and generous approach and departure angles and it proves to be a useful all-rounder. Although it’s no Wrangler, with a fixed roof and non-removable doors, the Jeep Meridian 4×4 can handle more than its fair share of off-road activity as well.
That said, the handling on the road is commendable for a big car. The Jeep Meridian 4×4 behaves well, even with its bulk and perceptible but not bothersome body-roll. It feels predictable and holds its line well. The brakes aren’t the most efficient at getting this 1.8-tonne slender behemoth to shed speed, but they do an adequate job. Besides, the advanced assistance systems make for autonomous braking with good effect—with yours truly only mildly startled—when it engages the AEB, the safety suite’s trump card. The surround-view camera, blind-spot detection, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control are appreciated bits of equipment. The lane keep assist is evident but not overly intrusive when straying over the white line and that’s a useful wake-up call from distractions large and small. Speaking of which…
Inside, the Jeep Meridian 4×4 has a mix of screens, buttons, knobs, and toggle switches within its vast cabin. Finished in a camel tan shade of upholstery, the Overland uses a mix of art-leather and suede finish to a pleasing effect. The seats are ventilated, with the controls for this only available in the upper corners of the centre touchscreen. Both front seats are powered and have adjustable lumbar support. Thankfully, the controls for the climate settings are on the centre console; easier to locate on the move. The audio controls are located behind the two lateral spokes of the steering wheel, familiar and useful—once you get used to it.
The 10.1-inch “Uconnect” touchscreen has a crisp display and is responsive, with integrated navigation and voice controls. The 10.2-inch colour driver information display behind the wheel also is a treasure trove of vehicle information. The Alpine sound system is great, especially ideal for some good ol’ American heavy metal; in tune with its character. There’s a lot more, too, the wireless charging holds phones of all sizes and keeps them in place. The huge panoramic dual-pane folding sunroof makes for an airy cabin and puts a big check mark in the “Does it have a sunroof?” checkbox.
Getting to the versatility aspect, the three-row Jeep Meridian 4×4 has a second row which split-folds 40:60, with a one-tug tumble making for easy access to the third row. The third row has two individual folding seats, with three-point seat belts and adjustable air-vents with a blower control as well. Although the second row offers generous room for six-footers, the third one is best for children of average height or shorter adults able to squeeze in, if needed.
With all seats up, there is a usable 170 litres of boot volume. The third-row seats are good to have but, folded down when not needed, free up much more boot capacity. The powered tail-gate is a nice touch. The button, however, is on the overhead console next to the cabin light and sunroof controls; it can open and close the tailgate. The second button to close the tailgate is located on the left side of the cargo area and not on the tail-gate; not the most intuitive but facilitates easy reach.
All in all, the Jeep Meridian 4×4 is a full-size SUV which feels more like a normal car to drive. It is comfortable, spacious, flexible, and feels great to be in. It is high on safety, loaded with comfort features, and has good handling, too, all of which are not often experienced together. Yes, it doesn’t deliver double-digit economy in the city, but it makes up for that well on the highway—with a 1:1 fifth gear and four overdrive ratios, it simply will. A sturdy, robust, and fun SUV to drive every day the Meridian is, then. And it has some presence, too.
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
