In Search of Gold, People Are Forgetting the Diamond – Jeep Meridian vs. Toyota Fortuner

Why Are People Ignoring the Jeep Meridian for the Overpriced Fortuner?

In India, whenever someone thinks of buying a premium SUV, the Toyota Fortuner is the first name that comes to mind. Its bold design and strong road presence make it a popular choice. However, in the race for brand image, people are overlooking a far better SUV – the Jeep Meridian.

The Fortuner is powerful, no doubt, but when it comes to luxury, comfort, advanced features, and true value for money, the Jeep Meridian is way ahead. Let’s compare these two SUVs in detail and understand why people are missing out on a gem while chasing the hype.

1. Performance – Fortuner is Powerful, But Meridian is More Refined

The Toyota Fortuner Legender 4x4 AT comes with a 2.8L diesel engine producing 201 bhp and 500 Nm torque. It is powerful and built for rugged terrain, but it lacks the smoothness and refinement needed for daily driving.

The Jeep Meridian Limited (O) 4x4, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0L Multijet II diesel engine that generates 168 bhp and 350 Nm torque. While it has slightly lower power than the Fortuner, it makes up for it with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering a much smoother and effortless driving experience.

2. Features & Technology – Fortuner Feels Outdated

One of the biggest drawbacks of the Fortuner is its lack of modern features, especially at its high price point. Despite being in the ₹50 lakh+ range, it still misses out on many premium features that a luxury SUV should have.

The Jeep Meridian, on the other hand, is loaded with advanced features, making it a true premium SUV.

Features Available in Jeep Meridian but Missing in Fortuner:

Panoramic Sunroof – Fortuner doesn’t even offer a sunroof.

Ventilated Front Seats – Fortuner lacks cooling seats, which are a must in Indian weather.

Fully Digital Instrument Cluster – Meridian has a high-tech display, while Fortuner still uses analog dials.

Premium Alpine Sound System – Meridian offers a superior 9-speaker system for a better audio experience.

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) – Meridian ensures extra safety with modern tech.

If you are spending so much on an SUV, why settle for outdated technology when Jeep Meridian offers the latest features at a lower price?

Check out the full list of features on Jeep Meridian’s official website: https://www.jeep-india.com/new-jeep-meridian/gallery.html

3. Comfort & Ride Quality – Fortuner is Rough, Meridian is Luxury

Toyota Fortuner is built on a ladder-frame chassis, which is great for off-roading but makes city and highway driving uncomfortable and bumpy. Passengers feel body roll, and long drives can be tiring.

Jeep Meridian uses a monocoque chassis, which is the same type used in high-end luxury SUVs. This makes it way more comfortable, stable, and smooth on highways and city roads. If you want an SUV for daily driving and long trips, Meridian is the clear winner in terms of ride comfort.

4. Mileage & Fuel Efficiency – Fortuner Burns More Fuel

Toyota Fortuner’s big engine consumes more fuel, giving only 10-12 km/l mileage. This means frequent fuel stops and higher running costs.

Jeep Meridian’s more efficient 2.0L diesel engine delivers 16-17 km/l, making it a smarter choice for long-term ownership. With rising fuel prices, a fuel-efficient SUV like Meridian makes more sense.

5. Price Comparison – Fortuner is Overpriced

The top model of Toyota Fortuner Legender 4x4 AT costs around ₹56.73 lakh on-road in Delhi, while the Jeep Meridian Limited (O) 4x4 is available for approximately ₹39 lakh.

That’s a ₹17 lakh difference, even though the Meridian offers more features, better comfort, and higher fuel efficiency. Paying extra for fewer features and a rough ride doesn’t seem like a wise decision.

State-Wise On-Road Price Comparison:

Toyota Fortuner Legender 4x4 AT

Delhi: ₹56.73 lakh

Uttar Pradesh: ₹57-58 lakh

Bihar: ₹57-58 lakh

Haryana: ₹56-57 lakh

Jeep Meridian Limited (O) 4x4

Delhi: ₹39 lakh

Uttar Pradesh: ₹39-40 lakh

Bihar: ₹40-41 lakh

Haryana: ₹39-40 lakh

Why Pay More? Fortuner demands ₹17 lakh extra despite lacking premium features. Jeep Meridian offers luxury, modern tech, and a smoother ride at a much lower price!

Final Verdict – Why Jeep Meridian is the Smarter Choice

Toyota Fortuner is a strong and powerful SUV, but it is overpriced, less comfortable, lacks features, and consumes more fuel. Many people buy it for its brand image, without realizing that a better, more luxurious, and more feature-rich option exists – the Jeep Meridian.

If you want a rugged off-roader, then Fortuner makes sense. But for daily driving, long road trips, modern features, and true comfort, Jeep Meridian is the smarter and more practical choice.

Instead of paying a premium for outdated features, why not choose a smarter, more luxurious SUV?

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