2026 Jeep Meridian: Jeep has introduced the 2026 Jeep Meridian in the Indian market with a meaningful update focused on improving cabin flexibility and practicality. The highlight of the update is the addition of sliding second-row seats, a feature aimed at enhancing third-row usability and overall passenger comfort. While the upgrade strengthens the Meridian’s appeal as a premium three-row SUV, it also comes with a price revision across select variants.
What’s New in the 2026 Jeep Meridian?
The 2026 update is evolutionary rather than revolutionary, focusing on a single but impactful enhancement.
Key updates include:
- Sliding second-row seats introduced on select variants
- Improved third-row legroom and ingress/egress
- Higher flexibility for passengers and luggage
- Revised pricing reflecting the added functionality
Importantly, Jeep has not altered the Meridian’s design language or mechanical setup, preserving its familiar rugged-luxury character.
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2026 Jeep Meridian Sliding Second-Row Seats: How It Works
The newly added sliding function is available only on higher-spec trims, helping Jeep maintain a clear variant hierarchy.
Sliding seat details:
- Available on Limited (O) and Overland variants
- Works with a 60:40 split second-row layout
- Seat travel of up to 140 mm (40% section) and 130 mm (60% section)
- Forward tilt angle of 33 degrees for easier access
- Improves third-row space, which was earlier a limitation
Additionally, the second row now offers:
- 23-degree torso angle
- Up to 12 degrees of seat recline
This setup significantly boosts comfort for long journeys and makes the Meridian more practical for families.
2026 Jeep Meridian Variants and Pricing
Jeep continues to offer the Meridian in multiple trims, with the new sliding seat feature limited to premium variants.
Ex-showroom price highlights (India):
- Longitude: Rs 23.33 lakh (starting price)
- Limited (O): Around Rs 30.01 lakh
- Overland AWD: Up to Rs 37.48 lakh
Lower variants such as Longitude and Longitude Plus do not get the sliding second-row seats, keeping them more value-oriented.
Exterior Design: Familiar Yet Premium
The 2026 Jeep Meridian retains its bold and sophisticated SUV styling.
Exterior highlights include:
- Jeep’s signature 7-slot grille
- Sleek LED headlamps
- Strong shoulder lines
- Two-tone alloy wheels
- Balanced proportions with premium road presence
There are no visual changes for 2026, but the Meridian’s design still looks modern and upscale.
Interior and Features
Inside the cabin, the Meridian continues to offer a tech-rich and comfortable environment.
Key interior and comfort features:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 10.25-inch full digital instrument cluster
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Panoramic sunroof
- 12-way powered and ventilated front seats
- Powered tailgate
- Premium upholstery
- 9-speaker Alpine audio system
Jeep’s Uconnect connected car technology provides over 30 smart features, including remote functions and vehicle health monitoring.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety remains one of the Meridian’s strongest pillars.
Safety features include:
- Six airbags as standard
- 360-degree camera
- Electronic parking brake
- Hill start assist
- Electronic roll mitigation
ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems):
- Adaptive cruise control with stop & go
- Collision mitigation braking
- Blind spot monitoring
- Lane keep assist
- Intelligent speed assist
These features position the Meridian among the safest SUVs in its segment.
Engine and Powertrain
The 2026 Jeep Meridian continues with the same proven diesel engine.
Powertrain details:
- Engine: 2.0-litre turbo diesel
- Power output: ~167–170 hp
- Torque: 350 Nm
- Transmission options:
- 6-speed manual
- 9-speed torque converter automatic
Higher trims with automatic transmission also offer Jeep’s Select-Terrain 4×4 AWD system, enhancing off-road capability.
Claimed fuel efficiency:
- Up to 16.25 km/l (ARAI-certified)
Final Verdict
The 2026 Jeep Meridian doesn’t try to reinvent itself. Instead, it addresses a key usability concern by adding sliding second-row seats, making it a more practical and family-friendly SUV. While the price hike may deter some buyers, the added flexibility, premium features, strong diesel engine, and advanced safety tech ensure the Meridian remains a compelling choice in the three-row SUV segment.
