Customer feedback drives new seating feature aimed at improving third-row comfort in premium seven-seater SUV.
21 Jan 2026 | 305 Views | By Shristi Ohri
Jeep India has introduced the 2026 Meridian, featuring sliding second-row seats on select variants as part of its latest model year update. The enhancement, available on the Limited and Overland variants, aims to address customer requests for improved third-row accessibility and comfort.
The Meridian is Jeep's premium seven-seater SUV ...
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Jeep India has introduced the 2026 Meridian, featuring sliding second-row seats on select variants as part of its latest model year update. The enhancement, available on the Limited and Overland variants, aims to address customer requests for improved third-row accessibility and comfort.
The Meridian is Jeep's premium seven-seater SUV offering in India, positioned as a versatile family vehicle that combines the brand's legendary off-road capability with refined comfort and advanced technology. Part of Jeep's locally manufactured lineup, the Meridian competes in the premium three-row SUV segment.
The new sliding mechanism allows the second-row seats to move up to 140 mm longitudinally in a 40/60 split configuration, creating additional space for third-row passengers when needed. The system also enables a sliding travel of 310 mm for the 40% seat and 290 mm for the 60% seat, combined with a 33-degree forward tilt to facilitate easier entry and exit to the rear row.
Kumar Priyesh, Business Head and Director of Automotive Brands at Stellantis India, described the update as a direct response to customer feedback, particularly from families seeking greater comfort during travel. The second row now offers a 23-degree torso angle with an additional 12-degree recline option while maintaining compliance with safety standards.
The 2026 Meridian retains its core features, including Jeep's signature seven-slot grille, LED lighting, and a premium interior with soft-touch materials. Standard equipment across variants includes a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, 12-way powered and ventilated front seats, and premium upholstery.
Technology features remain unchanged, with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Uconnect connected services, offering over 30 features including remote vehicle functions and real-time health monitoring.
Safety continues as a priority, with more than 70 active and passive safety features, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems on certain variants. The SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 170 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, paired with a Selec-Terrain 4X4 system. The vehicle achieves a fuel efficiency of up to 16.25 km/l according to ARAI certification.
The 2026 Jeep Meridian range is now available at dealerships across India, with the sliding second-row seat variants starting at Rs 30.01 lakh. The base Meridian model begins at Rs 23.33 lakh. Bookings are currently open at authorized Jeep dealerships nationwide.