For the 2026 Jeep Meridian, a smart new feature gets added to boost practicality: sliding second-row seats. From my view, this is a major win for interior flexibility. Note that it’s reserved for select variants, namely the well-equipped Limited and top-tier Overland models.
Having seen the SUV landscape evolve, I can say Jeep’s latest move is sharp. They’ve introduced the updated 2026 Meridian to the Indian market, and the most talked-about practical enhancement is a clever one: sliding second-row seats for easier access to its three-row layout.
This update brings more versatility to select variants. Now, the crucial part for buyers: Prices start at Rs. 30.01 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions the SUV squarely where it competes with heavyweights like the Toyota Fortuner and Skoda Kodiaq, while also eyeing arriving rivals soon, such as the MG Gloster and VW Tayron.
Inside the 2026 Update: Sliding Seats Add Practicality
Here’s the practical upshot of the 2026 refresh—the most notable change is the addition of sliding second-row seats on the higher Limited and Overland trims. Having tested similar setups, this new seating setup is a genuine flexibility win. It allows longitudinal movement of up to 140 mm, giving owners the choice to either improve legroom for second- and third-row occupants or free up additional luggage space in the back. There’s definitely more to it than just a spec sheet tweak—it changes how you use the SUV day to day.
The second row features a clever 40:60 split, and each section offers impressive sliding travel—up to 310 mm for the smaller side and 290 mm for the larger one. In practice, this along with a forward tilt of 33 degrees, truly does make access to the third row more convenient. But comfort isn’t forgotten. That same second row now provides a detailed 23-degree torso angle with an additional 12-degree recline, a setup created specifically to offer better support while still meeting all safety requirements.
Staying True to Its Roots
Despite all these updates, the overall feel hasn’t changed drastically. The 2026 Meridian firmly continues with a very familiar and well-liked design and cabin layout. Jeep’s signature styling elements are all present and correct, from the iconic seven-slot grille to the sharp LED lighting, which together are key to its commanding road presence.
I’ve always felt this consistent visual identity is a strength. Stepping inside, the SUV successfully retains its premium appeal, largely thanks to the generous use of soft-touch materials throughout the interior. It’s an approach that respects the model’s established identity while refining where it counts.
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The Meridian certainly doesn’t cut corners on the equipment list, which comprises comforts like a huge panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, and very practical ventilated and electrically adjustable front seats trimmed in leatherette upholstery.
On the technology front, it continues to offer the crisp 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a responsive 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. In my experience, the real game-changer is Jeep’s Uconnect connected car platform. This system genuinely supports over 30 different connected features, including useful remote functions and detailed real-time vehicle diagnostics, keeping you informed well beyond the driver’s seat.
Safety and Power: Familiar Strengths
A major focus for this 2026 model is safety; the Jeep Meridian also offers more than 70 different active and passive safety features. For added peace of mind, Select variants are equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Mechanically, however, the 2026 Jeep Meridian remains completely unchanged under the hood. It is powered by the same proven 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, which delivers a solid 170 hp of maximum power and a robust 350 Nm of peak torque that I’ve found more than capable for both city drives and highway cruising.
Mechanically, the engine is optionally available with Jeep’s capable Select-Terrain 4×4 system on applicable variants, and it comes with a solid ARAI-rated fuel economy of up to 16.25 kmpl. The good news is that this updated 2026 Jeep Meridian, including the model with the new sliding second-row seats, is now available across Jeep dealerships in India. On the pricing front, these specific refreshed variants are priced from Rs. 30.01 lakh. It’s important to note that the overall Meridian lineup continues to start at a lower entry point of Rs. 23.33 lakh (ex-showroom). For those interested, bookings are currently open.
