The Jeep Meridian has quickly become a favorite in India’s premium SUV market. It combines rugged off-road strength with smooth city driving. Buyers who want both power and good fuel economy find this SUV an attractive option. With its 2.0L diesel engine, roomy interior, and modern features, the Meridian offers the best of both worlds.
Key Specifications of the Jeep Meridian
Launched in India on May 19, 2022, the Meridian comes with either five or seven seats. Its 2.0L diesel engine produces 168-170 horsepower and 350 Nm of pulling power. Buyers can choose between manual or automatic transmission and either front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Prices start at Rs.24.99 lakh and go up to Rs.38.79 lakh (before showroom charges). It competes directly with vehicles like the Toyota Fortuner and Tata Safari.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Multijet II Diesel |
| Power Output | 168-170 bhp |
| Torque | 350 Nm |
| Transmission Options | 6-speed Manual / 9-speed Automatic |
| Drive Options | Front-Wheel Drive / All-Wheel Drive |
| Seating Capacity | 5 or 7 seats |
| Price Range | Rs.24.99 lakh – Rs.38.79 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Fuel Efficiency Numbers You Should Know
The Meridian’s fuel consumption changes based on model type, transmission, and driving conditions. Here are the important figures:
| Condition | Mileage (kmpl) |
|---|---|
| Official ARAI Rating (Manual) | 12 |
| Official ARAI Rating (Automatic) | 8.2-11.5 |
| City Driving (User Reports) | 11-13 |
| Highway Driving (User Reports) | 14-16 |
| Heavy Traffic Conditions | 6.5-6.6 (4×4 Automatic) |
| International Version (Brazil) | Up to 15.5 |
The 60-liter fuel tank gives a driving range between 690-900 km depending on driving style. While not the most fuel-efficient in its class, the Meridian holds its own against competitors.
What Affects the Meridian’s Fuel Consumption?
Several factors play a role in how much fuel the Meridian uses:
- Transmission Choice: Manual versions typically use less fuel than automatics
- City vs Highway Driving: Stop-and-go traffic reduces mileage significantly
- Driving Habits: Quick acceleration and hard braking increase fuel use
- Vehicle Weight: The 4×4 models weigh more and use more fuel
- Maintenance: Regular servicing helps maintain good mileage
- Road Conditions: Off-road driving consumes more fuel than paved roads
Practical Tips for Better Mileage
Owners can follow these suggestions to improve their Meridian’s fuel efficiency:
- Accelerate gradually and avoid sudden braking
- Check tire pressure monthly for optimal performance
- Use air conditioning wisely – it affects fuel consumption
- Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle
- Plan routes to avoid heavy traffic when possible
- Follow the recommended maintenance schedule
How It Compares to Other SUVs
Here’s how the Meridian stacks up against its main competitors:
| Competitor | Mileage (kmpl) | Comparison Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Fortuner | 10-14 | Similar highway performance, slightly worse in cities |
| Tata Safari | Up to 22.5 | More efficient but less premium feel |
| MG Gloster | 12-14 | Comparable mileage with more power |
| Hyundai Tucson | 15-18 | Better urban efficiency but less capable off-road |
Real Owner Experiences
Actual Meridian drivers report:
- As low as 6.6 kmpl in heavy Mumbai traffic (4×4 automatic)
- 15-16 kmpl on highways at steady speeds
- 12-15 kmpl for mixed city and highway driving
Technology That Helps Save Fuel
The Meridian includes several features designed for efficiency:
- Advanced 2.0L diesel engine technology
- Optimized 6-speed manual and 9-speed automatic transmissions
- Smooth body design that cuts through air easily
- Precision steering that reduces engine strain
Understanding Fuel Costs
With diesel at Rs.90 per liter and driving 1000 km monthly:
- City driving: About Rs.8180 per month
- Highway driving: Approximately Rs.6000 monthly
- Mixed driving: Around Rs.6920 each month
Final Thoughts
The Jeep Meridian offers a compelling mix of off-road ability, premium features, and reasonable fuel economy for its class. While not the most efficient SUV available, it provides good value for buyers who want both performance and practicality. By following smart driving habits and keeping up with maintenance, owners can enjoy both the Meridian’s capabilities and decent mileage.