KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- 2026 Jeep Meridian launched with sliding second-row seats on select variants
- Second row offers up to 140 mm adjustment for better flexibility; Improves upon third row access
- Retains the 2.0L turbocharged diesel engine
Jeep India has introduced the 2026 iteration of the Meridian, bringing a meaningful update to its premium seven-seat SUV. The latest model year update focuses squarely on customer feedback, with the addition of sliding second-row seats on select variants to improve flexibility, comfort, and third-row usability. With this update, the Meridian comes up as a more family-focused SUV that blends space, safety, and long-distance comfort with Jeep's rugged DNA. Read on to find out more details, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
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Updated Jeep Compass: Now Gets Sliding Second-Row Seats
The headline update for the 2026 Jeep Meridian is the introduction of sliding second-row seats, offered on the Limited and Overland variants. This new setup allows the second row to slide longitudinally by up to 140 mm, giving owners the flexibility to balance legroom between the second and third rows or expand boot space when needed. This feature proves especially useful when all seven seats are occupied, significantly improving comfort for third-row passengers, an area where many large SUVs fall short. The split 40:60 seat design also ensures that flexibility is not compromised when carrying a mix of passengers and luggage.
Jeep has gone a step further by enhancing access to the third row. The updated second-row seats now offer a more relaxed seating posture with a 23-degree torso angle and an additional 12 degrees of recline. For easier entry and exit, the seats can slide forward by up to 310 mm (40 percent section) and 290 mm (60 percent section), paired with a forward tilt of 33 degrees. These changes collectively make the Meridian better suited for family use and long journeys, particularly when adults are expected to occupy the third row.
Design & Features
Visually, the 2026 Meridian remains familiar, retaining Jeep's bold SUV stance and premium road presence. Signature elements such as the seven-slot grille, LED lighting and muscular proportions continue unchanged, reinforcing its identity as a larger and more sophisticated sibling to the Compass. Inside, the Meridian maintains its premium cabin appeal with soft-touch materials, refined upholstery, and a well-laid-out three-row interior. Key comfort features continue as before, including a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and 12-way power-adjustable front seats with ventilation.
The 2026 Meridian continues to offer a modern tech package, anchored by a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system is powered by Jeep's Uconnect platform, offering over 30 connected car features such as remote vehicle functions, live vehicle health monitoring, and enhanced convenience tools. Safety continues to be a core pillar of the Jeep Meridian. The SUV is equipped with over 70 active and passive safety features, including ADAS on select variants. These systems are calibrated for Indian road conditions and add an extra layer of confidence during highway driving and daily use.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the 2026 Jeep Meridian retains the proven 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine. This unit produces 170 hp and 350 Nm of and with some variants, come equipped with Jeep's Selec-Terrain 4x4 system. Jeep claims an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of up to 16.25 kmpl, making it a relatively efficient option in the premium seven-seat SUV space.
Prices for the 2026 Jeep Meridian with sliding second-row seats start at Rs 30.01 lakh (ex-showroom), while the broader Meridian range begins at Rs 23.33 lakh (ex-showroom). Bookings for the updated model are now open across Jeep dealerships nationwide.
Verdict
The 2026 Jeep Meridian refines it in the right places. By introducing sliding second-row seats, Jeep has addressed one of the key pain points of seven-seat SUVs, third-row comfort and flexibility. Combined with its strong diesel engine, premium interiors, comprehensive safety package and proven 4x4 capability, the Meridian continues to stand out as a well-rounded option for buyers seeking a sophisticated yet practical family SUV.
