[suhaas307]

Originally Posted by Arnav612

That can't be acceptable, let alone good. The Compass has quite a cozy backseat and having the Meridian feel the same, is practically barely any car over the Compass. Identical interior + similar second row + close to unusable third row, where is the space utilisation at all?

Also, given that it is to fall in a similar price bracket to the Gloster, as a package how do you think it shapes up in comparison?

The Compass' back seat is pretty tight for a 6-footer like me. If there are 6-footers sitting up front, the back seat is not going to be comfortable for me, especially if I am sharing it with another 6-footer. My knees would be right up against the seat-backs.

The Meridian on the other hand is somewhat OK. Two 6-footers can sit one behind the other, with a little wiggle-room, but only a little. The problem is largely for the 5th passenger / 3rd passenger in the 2nd row. While the cabin is wider than the Compass, it's only marginally wider.

The Gloster, Fortuner and Meridian are very different cars and would appeal to very different customers. It just so happens that they are all priced similarly.

Personally, I would get the Meridian over the Gloster or the Fortuner, because I prefer a SUV that provides a driving-experience that is sedan-like and not ladder-frame like.

The Gloster is extremely spacious yes, but it does not appeal to me at all. And it does not appear to have appealed to many either, considering that it has barely sold thus far.

The Fortuner will continue to sell in large numbers. The Meridian will occupy the space left vacant by the Endeavour.

People in the market for a Kodiaq or Tiguan are more likely to consider the Meridian. I don't think a potential Gloster / Fortuner customer would give the Meridian more than a second look.

[cool_dube]

Originally Posted by suhaas307

People in the market for a Kodiaq or Tiguan are more likely to consider the Meridian. I don't think a potential Gloster / Fortuner customer would give the Meridian more than a second look.

Spot on! As you rightly said, the options available today in the Indian market for a 7-seater premium SUV are quite different from each other, with price bracket being the only common factor.

I also agree that the Meridian seems to be a good midway option between the Kodiaq and the Fortuner. Now waiting for the price reveal!

[porsche_guy]

Originally Posted by suhaas307

My only real grouse with it, apart from the obvious lack of features and the tentatively high proposed price tag (it's an epidemic now, with all new cars) is the fact that the middle row feels not too different from the Compass - which essentially means 3 in the middle row will be a squeeze. The exterior dimensions simply do not translate to interior room. And that, in my opinion, is the only real major issue with the Meridian. Even the 3rd row being tight is forgivable, because 3rd rows are generally tight in most SUVs unless it's a Kia Carnival or a Toyota Vellfire.

If Jeep prices this 10 lakh over the Compass (variant for variant), we may have a DOA product, unfortunately.

Originally Posted by Arnav612

That can't be acceptable, let alone good. The Compass has quite a cozy backseat and having the Meridian feel the same, is practically barely any car over the Compass. Identical interior + similar second row + close to unusable third row, where is the space utilisation at all?

Also, given that it is to fall in a similar price bracket to the Gloster, as a package how do you think it shapes up in comparison?

Exactly my thoughts. I wonder if this will be the Alcazar moment for Jeep? I don't see much going for the Meridian over the Compass which in itself caters only to a niche set of buyers. This doesn't have the image and reputation that the Fortuner has built till now either.

On top of this, I do expect the Compass to be more adept at tackling the tougher stuff being a more compact machine. Then, I wonder really if there's a convincing answer Jeep can give to the question "why should I buy this over a Compass?"

Frankly speaking, a price premium of over 4 lakhs over the Compass in my opinion will make it DOA. And looking towards all the hints that Jeep has given about their "rivals", this would be priced in the Fortuner ballpark.

[Venkatesh]

Here’s a glimpse of the Jeep Meridian Media Drive Experience.

https://youtu.be/4a0XAraRPSY

[Revvman]

Landmark Jeep Noida has started sending launch date invites for 19th May. As per my conversation with the SA, car will be available on display on the same day itself.

[Gsynch]

Received this appended invite for showroom launch and price reveal for Jeep Meridian.

"Landmark Jeep proudly presents an SUV that redefines Sophistication - Jeep Meridian! Please join us for the Exclusive Unveiling and Price Launch over some light music and snacks on 19th May. Grace the occasion with your presence. I look forward to seeing you"