Jeep Meridian vs Toyota Fortuner
A detailed comparison of the rugged Jeep Meridian vs Toyota Fortuner refined to help buyers choose the right 7-seater SUV.
Jeep Meridian vs Toyota Fortuner : In India’s premium SUV market, two names often dominate discussions — the Toyota Fortuner, a long-standing favorite, and the Jeep Meridian, a relatively new entrant that promises sophistication and comfort. While the Fortuner has built a reputation as a rugged, go-anywhere SUV, the Meridian positions itself as a refined, premium, and tech-savvy offering. Both are 7-seaters, both carry a commanding road presence, yet they target buyers with slightly different priorities. Let’s dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of these two SUVs.
Design and Road Presence
Jeep Meridian vs Toyota Fortuner :
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Toyota Fortuner:
The Fortuner has a bold, muscular stance with a high bonnet line, large grille, and sharp LED projector headlamps. Its towering height and butch proportions make it one of the most imposing SUVs in its category. It appeals to those who want a traditional SUV look with raw road presence. -
Jeep Meridian:
The Meridian, on the other hand, leans towards sophistication. It draws inspiration from the Jeep Compass but stretches longer and wider, offering more elegance. Sleek LED headlights, the iconic Jeep seven-slot grille, and chrome touches give it a more premium and understated appeal compared to the Fortuner’s brute styling.
Verdict: Fortuner for boldness, Meridian for refinement.
Interior Comfort and Features
Jeep Meridian vs Toyota Fortuner :
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Toyota Fortuner:
The Fortuner’s interior emphasizes durability and practicality. While the dashboard design is straightforward, it has modern conveniences such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats, and premium leather upholstery in higher trims. Its second-row seating is spacious, but the third row feels a bit cramped for adults. -
Jeep Meridian:
The Meridian takes the edge in luxury and comfort. The interiors are plush, with high-quality materials, soft-touch panels, a large 10.1-inch infotainment system, a fully digital 10.25-inch instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, and powered seats. The second row is extremely comfortable, and the third row, while not expansive, is more usable than the Fortuner’s.
Verdict: Meridian clearly wins in features and luxury.
Engine and Performance
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Toyota Fortuner:
Available with a 2.7-liter petrol (166 hp, 245 Nm) and a 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine (204 hp, up to 500 Nm), the Fortuner is built for power. The diesel engine, in particular, is known for its strong performance on highways and off-road trails. It comes with both manual and automatic transmission options, along with 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. -
Jeep Meridian:
The Meridian is offered with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine producing 170 hp and 350 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic. It also offers an AWD system in top trims. While not as powerful as the Fortuner, it provides smooth performance, refined handling, and car-like dynamics that suit urban driving.
Verdict: Fortuner for raw power and off-road toughness, Meridian for smooth, refined city and highway use.
Ride and Handling
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Toyota Fortuner:
Built on a ladder-frame chassis, the Fortuner is rugged and reliable on broken roads and tough terrains. However, this also means it feels heavier and less agile in city conditions. Body roll is noticeable during sharp cornering. -
Jeep Meridian:
The Meridian uses a monocoque chassis, which makes it lighter and more agile. Its suspension setup is tuned for comfort, delivering a smooth ride on highways and city streets. It also feels more planted around corners compared to the Fortuner.
Verdict: Meridian offers superior ride comfort and handling, while the Fortuner excels in off-road toughness.
Technology and Safety
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Toyota Fortuner:
The Fortuner packs essentials like 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, Vehicle Stability Control, hill-assist, and a strong body structure. Top variants also get front parking sensors and a 360-degree camera. -
Jeep Meridian:
The Meridian steps up with features like ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), 360-degree camera, hill descent control, six airbags, electronic stability control, and traction management. The tech-forward approach gives it an advantage in modern safety and driver aids.
Verdict: Meridian leads in advanced safety technology.
Practicality and Boot Space
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Toyota Fortuner:
Boot space is decent with all three rows up, but significantly expands once the third row is folded. Its rugged build makes it great for long trips with luggage. -
Jeep Meridian:
The Meridian offers a balanced boot capacity, slightly tighter with all rows up but flexible when the last row is folded. It is practical for city families who occasionally need extra space.
Verdict: Both are practical, but Fortuner’s larger dimensions give it an edge in sheer utility.
Price and Value Jeep Meridian vs Toyota Fortuner
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Toyota Fortuner:
Price Starting From between Rs 33 Lakh to Rs 51 Lakh Ex Showroom , the Fortuner is more expensive but offers unmatched reliability, resale value, and Toyota’s service network. -
Jeep Meridian:
Ranges from Rs 29 lakh to Rs 37 lakh Ex Showroom , making it significantly more affordable than the Fortuner. It brings better luxury and technology at a lower price point, but Jeep’s service reach is not as wide as Toyota’s.
Verdict: Meridian wins on affordability and features; Fortuner retains long-term value and reliability.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota Fortuner is ideal for buyers seeking a rugged, reliable, and powerful SUV with excellent off-road credentials and a strong resale value. It’s the SUV for those who want dominance on the road and trust in Toyota’s after-sales network.
The Jeep Meridian, on the other hand, appeals to buyers looking for a premium, comfortable, and technology-rich 7-seater SUV at a more affordable price. It’s perfect for urban families who prioritize luxury, refinement, and features over brute strength.
In summary:
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Pick the Fortuner if you want power, reliability, and off-road toughness.
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Pick the Meridian if you want comfort, luxury, and a more city-friendly premium SUV.
Last Updated On 19 September 2025.
See also this: Toyota Fortuner Legender vs MG Gloster: Battle of the Full-Size SUVs
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