New seven-seat Jeep Meridian previewed

The all-new 2022 Jeep Meridian has been previewed – a new seven-seat SUV that will launch in India to capitalise on the demand for spacious, go-anywhere, high-riding vehicles.

Joining the three-row, China-only Jeep Grand Commander, Latin America Commander and Grand Cherokee L, as well as the flagship Jeep Grand Wagoneer available in the US, the latest Meridian is claimed to share much with the Commander and is said to be based heavily on the current Jeep Compass sold in Australia.

Differing from our Compass, the Meridian measures in at 4769mm long and gets a 2794mm wheelbase, making it 434mm longer and handing it a 158mm stretched wheelbase.

The Indian-built model also gets a lengthened rear overhang to accommodate the third row of seating.

Featuring an all-new body, the Meridian, which takes its name from the 3500km-long Meridian 77 highway that cuts through the entire length of India, also gets taller glass and different front and rear styling.

It's not yet known how the camouflaged Jeep's design will differ from the Latin Jeep Commander.

Under the bonnet, the Jeep is thought to be powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that's combined with a nine-speed automatic and produces around 150kW.

Both two- and all-wheel drive versions will be offered.

Later on, a mid-hybrid derivative will arrive.

Inside, there's a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a large 10.1-inch infotainment system that works with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

A panoramic sunroof and wireless smartphone charger are both offered, plus the car-maker's latest semi-autonomous driving aids.

Since the new Jeep Meridian has been developed for the right-hand drive Indian market, it's feasible that it could potentially be exported to Australia and be sold as a Skoda Kodiaq alternative.

It's set to be unveiled in the coming weeks, ahead of an anticipated market launch around mid-2022.

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