Jeep Meridian vs Jeep Compass: differences and similarities

While the Meridian is a brand new model, it seems to have a lot in common with the Compass

Meridian is Jeep’s brand new, market-focused offering for India. It is a three-row SUV with many similarities to the smaller Compass. There are exterior details that clearly draw inspiration from other Jeep models as well as the Grand Cherokee, but it shares various interior and technical components with the Compass. As we approach the market launch of Meridian, let’s see exactly how the two models compare.

Measure

Of course, the meridian is larger than the compass, but by comparing these numbers we can see how much they differ. The three-wheeled SUV is 364 mm longer while the length of the wheelbase differs by only 92 mm. It is 41 mm wider than the compass and 58 mm higher.

Performance

Meridian will be launched with only one engine option, the same diesel unit as Compass. There is no difference in the top effects, but expect the performance delivery to be adjusted to better fit the larger SUV. It even gets the same choice of manual and automatic transmission, and the options for 4×2 and 4×4 driveline. But while Compass only offers the diesel machine with 4WD, Meridian also offers it with 2WD.

At the same time, the Compass is available with a turbocharged petrol engine that offers 163 hp and 250 Nm of performance. It is only offered with a 4×2 driveline but it can choose between manual and automatic transmission.

Exterior design

At first glance, it may seem as if Meridian and Compass have very similar front ends. But look a little further and you will start to notice the many differences such as the bumper design, the grille and the sculpted shapes of the hood.

From the side profile, the only similarity between the two Jeep models may be the A-pillar and the square wheel arches. While the roofline of the Compass has a slight slope to the rear with a rising window line, Meridian’s roofs appear consistently high to offer space for all three rows of seats. The new SUV also has more remarkable upholstery along the side.

Seen from behind, the meridian and the compass do not look the same. The smaller SUV’s rear design now looks a bit aged and orthodox compared to the Meridian, which has an elegant set of LED taillights that are connected to a chrome bar. The rear of the Meridian also looks thicker thanks to the extra width and the more robust bumper design with a visible sliding plate.

Cottage

The Meridian has a brown and black cabin theme compared to the all-black cabin on the Compass. However, the instrument panel on the two is identical in layout with the same ventilation modes, screens, control panel and steering wheel. From a driver’s or front seat passenger’s perspective, there is not much difference here.

The second row of seats in the Meridian has a toggle function to access the third row. Its seat base and headrest shape differ markedly from that of the Compass rear seats. They both get the same fold-out center armrest at the back with cup holders.

Finally, the Meridian has a smaller boot than the Compass with all three rows of seats in use. However, you can open up some luggage volume by dropping the 50:50 split folding seats on the third row that lie flat with the luggage compartment floor.

Features

Because both SUVs have almost identical instrument panels, both come with a 10.1-inch infotainment system with touch screen, a 10.2-inch digital driver display and dual-zone climate control.

The shared features between Meridian and Compass further include the 8-way electrically adjustable and ventilated front seats, dual shutters, electric tailgate, a 9-speaker sound system and 360-degree camera. Also when it comes to safety, both come with up to six airbags, backstart assistance, electronic stability control and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Since the Meridian will only be offered in two trims, it offers more of these premium features from the base. The more affordable variants of Compass do not get many of the above mentioned features that are shared with the new three-line offer

Award

Ex-showroom, Delhi

# – including the Trailhawk trim

Jeep will announce the prices of the Meridian in early June. It is a premium competitor to such as Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq. At the same time, the Compass is a smaller SUV with the choice of petrol engine and less equipped variants that make it more accessible than the Meridian.