Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Jeep Meridian Gets New 200hp Engine! Here's Why You Cannot Buy One
Stellantis has announced the launch of a more robust 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine for the Jeep Meridian, known as the Commander in Brazil and other markets. This addition is set to enhance the vehicle's performance with a notable increase in power and torque.
Specifically, this engine will deliver 200bhp and 450Nm of torque, marking a significant upgrade from the previous 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine that produced 170bhp and 380Nm. The new engine exists alongside a nine-speed automatic transmission and a 4×4 all-wheel-drive system, promising a blend of efficiency and power.
One of the primary advantages of the new 2.2-litre engine is its improved capability for off-road excursions and heavy-duty tasks, which are common requirements for drivers in Brazil. The rugged terrain and frequent unpaved roads make a more powerful engine necessary for the local market. The Jeep Commander Overland's enhanced engine performance is tailored to meet these demands, facilitating smoother rides across challenging landscapes and ensuring the vehicle's utility in various conditions.
Enhancements Accompanying the New Engine
Alongside the engine upgrade, several modifications have been made to the Jeep Commander Overland to accommodate the new powertrain. These include a revamped exhaust system featuring ARLA 32 emission reduction technology, similar to what is found in the Ram Rampage pickup truck available in Brazil. Additionally, to manage the increased performance, the vehicle has been fitted with larger front brake discs. The automatic transmission has also been adjusted to accommodate the engine's higher torque output, with gear ratios extended by approximately 14% for each of the nine gears.
The incorporation of the 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine not only enhances performance but also brings notable real-world benefits. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h now takes only 9.7 seconds, a significant improvement from the 11.6 seconds recorded with the earlier 2.0-litre engine. Despite the increase in power, fuel efficiency remains commendable. The vehicle achieves an average fuel consumption of 10.4 km/l in city conditions and 15.5 km/l on highways. This efficiency is an improvement over the previous engine's mileage, underscoring the new engine's balance between power and sustainability.
Potential for the Indian Market
Despite its promising features and enhancements, the introduction of the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine in the Indian market remains uncertain. The existing 2.0-litre Multijet II turbo diesel engine, which is locally produced and shared among various models such as the Compass, Tata Harrier, Safari, MG Hector, and Hector Plus, already meets the strict BS6 Phase-2 emission norms. This engine's reliability and acceptance in the Indian market make it a tough contender to replace. Moreover, the costs related to retooling, homologation, and ensuring emission compliance for a new engine could lead to higher prices, making it less appealing for the manufacturer to make such a shift.
Instead of introducing a new engine, Jeep may focus on enhancing the Meridian's features and equipment to bolster its competitiveness in the Indian market. Facing stiff competition from rivals like the Toyota Fortuner, MG Gloster, and Skoda Kodiaq, strategic upgrades and improvements could be a more viable approach for Jeep to maintain its market position.
DriveSpark Thinks
While the new 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine offers significant performance enhancements for the Jeep Commander (Meridian) in markets like Brazil, its introduction in India seems unlikely. The focus for the Indian market may instead shift towards incremental updates and feature enhancements to strengthen the Jeep Meridian's appeal amidst a competitive segment.
Continue with Google