- Jeep
- India
- Meridian
- NY2025
- new
- luxury SUV
- aggressive pricing
- features
- ADAS Level 2
- comfort
- five-seat
- seven-seat
- comfort
MY2025 Jeep Meridian Launched With Aggressive Pricing
- By MT Bureau
- October 21, 2024
Jeep India has introduced the MY2025 Meridian with an aggressive pricing strategy and new features. A facelift, its prices start at INR 2,500,000 ex-showroom and climb up to INR 3,649,000 ex-showroom for the top trim ‘Overland’ variant.
Available in four – Longitudinal, Longitude Plus, Limited (O) and Overland – trims, the new luxury SUV offers sophistication, cutting-edge safety, advanced technology and unparalleled comfort, according to the company.
It repositioning in the seven-seat SUV segment that has the Toyota Fortuner commanding the space with roughly 96 percent of the market, the new Meridian isn’t a far cry in terms of appearance when compared to the one it replaces.
Along with the familiar exterior comes a familiar interior that is spacious, comfortable and adorned with vegan leather (vinyl fabric in Longitude) and suede/vegan leather accents. There’s visible copper stitching that adds a touch of craftsmanship.
Available with a seven-seat or five-seat configuration, the luxury SUV offers 824-litre of boot space with the middle and third row seats folded; 481-litre of storage space with the third-row seat folded, and 170-litre with all three seat rows in place.
Based on the extended Compass SUV platform with an appearance that seems to have been inspired by the Cherokee rather than the Compass, the Meridian in its MY2025 avatar comes with ‘Uconnect’ connected services with GSDP 2.0 connectivity protocol. The key features of this include Automatic SOS Call, Remote Engine Start/Stop with AC Preconditioning, Alexa Home to Vehicle, Smartwatch Extension, Vehicle Health Report with alert, Connected One-Box Navigation Search with live traffic, weather and incident updates, and over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates
Equipped with a customisable 10.25-inch fully digital cluster and a 10.1-inch fully HD touchscreen media centre (with built-in navigation and wireless mirroring for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), the vehicle also comes with wireless smartphone charging and multiple USB ports across the cabin, dual-zone automatic climate control, electric-adjustable front seats, panoramic sunroof and ADAS Level 2 system.
This system – found on the top-spec Overland variant – is tuned to
Indian road and traffic conditions. It includes a front radar and camera and offers adaptive cruise control with stop and go, intelligent speed assist, full speed forward collision warning with collision mitigation braking, lane departure warning and lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, surround view monitor, smart beam assist, blind spot detection and driver attention alert among others.
Powered by a 174 bhp 2-litre turbodiesel engine, the Meridian could be had with a six-speed manual or a nine-speed auto transmission.
“The Jeep Meridian was born from our understanding of the growing demand for a premium model for customers who have progressed through Jeep’s lineup. The Meridian will usher in a new phase for Jeep in India, offering a distinctive personality with imposing and sophisticated design, premium finishes, and cutting-edge technology, all while retaining the legendary adventure capabilities expected from a Jeep. With the additional variants, we’re excited to cater to a diverse audience, staying true to our commitment to making Jeep more accessible to enthusiasts in India,” said Kumar Priyesh, Brand Director, Jeep India.
The first Jeep model that was developed specifically for India with a global vision, the Meridian is exported to markets like Japan among others as the Jeep Commander. It is necessary to note, that Jeep India has not explained if these prices are relevant for 2WD or 4Wd models in its statement. From a brand point of view, the omission about a model's off-roading capability is very surprising.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Launches All-Electric Urban Cruiser Ebella
- By MT Bureau
- January 20, 2026
Toyota Kirloskar Motor has introduced the Urban Cruiser Ebella, its first Battery Electric Vehicle for the Indian market. This launch signifies Toyota's strategic entry into the country's growing electric mobility sector, underpinned by its three-decade legacy in global electrified technology. The vehicle embodies Toyota's multipath approach to sustainable transportation, aiming to broaden consumer choice in electrified powertrains while supporting national objectives for decarbonisation and energy independence.
The all-electric SUV is designed with a bold and aerodynamic silhouette, featuring a signature hammerhead front, premium LED lighting and dual-tone exterior options. Its spacious and premium cabin is crafted with dual-tone finishes, ambient lighting, ventilated front seats and a panoramic roof. Advanced technology is central to the experience, integrating a unified digital cockpit with a large combimeter and multimedia system, complemented by a JBL premium sound system.
Performance is delivered through two battery options, providing a driving range of up to 543 kilometres. The vehicle supports both AC and DC fast charging, with intelligent features for remote operation and scheduling via the i-Connect system. Safety is a paramount focus, with the inclusion of Level 2 Advanced Driver Assist Systems, a high-tensile body structure, seven airbags and a 360-degree camera.
Ownership is designed to be comprehensive and reassuring. The company is backing the vehicle with an eight-year battery warranty, assured buyback programmes and flexible Battery-as-a-Service options. To ensure expert support, over 500 service centres across the country have been equipped with specialised BEV diagnostic tools and infrastructure, staffed by more than 2,500 master technicians trained in electrification.
Bookings for the Urban Cruiser Ebella will commence on 20 January 2026, with pricing details to be announced in the near future.
Masakazu Yoshimura, Chairman, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “The introduction of All-Electric Urban Cruiser Ebella is a key enabler towards furthering our multi-pathway approach, where our aim is to contribute towards carbon neutrality while leaving no one behind. Now, with the launch of All-Electric Urban Cruiser Ebella in India, we remain firmly committed to advancing our support towards India’s transition to greener mobility. With our compelling product line-up, technology leadership, strong after sales services and dealership network, we intend to achieve our sustainable mobility goals while providing freedom of mobility to all.”
Tadashi Asazuma, Deputy Managing Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “With three decades of global expertise in electrified technologies, Toyota has consistently invested in focused innovation to address diverse mobility needs. As a result, our customers worldwide have already contributed to saving more than 197 million tonnes of CO₂ with over 38 million electrified vehicles on the road worldwide. At the heart of this progress is our philosophy of Mass Happiness, with carbon neutrality as its foundation. This has guided our preparation for Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s first BEV, the All-Electric Urban Cruiser Ebella. Our pre-launch readiness goes beyond the product to ensure a seamless, worry-free ownership experience, aligned with Toyota’s global standards and our vision for future-ready, sustainable mobility in India.”
Sabari Manohar, Executive Vice President, Sales–Service–Used Car Business & Profit Enhancement, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, “The All-Electric Urban Cruiser Ebella, showcases an authentic SUV character inspired by its ‘Urban Tech’ design philosophy. With a bold hammerhead expression and three-dimensional surfaces, the BEV delivers a strong, futuristic road presence. It is available with 49 kWh and 61 kWh battery options, with latter pack producing 128 kW and 189 Nm of torque and offering a driving range of up to 543 km (Certified by ARAI) on a single charge. The vehicle is backed by a robust service network, Electrified Technology trained dealer teams, an 8-year battery warranty, flexible ownership programmes (Assured Buy Back & Battery as a Service), and an expanding charging ecosystem to ensure Assured care and delightful BEV ownership experience.”
Mercedes-Benz India Expands Retail Network With New Outlet In Bhopal
- By MT Bureau
- January 20, 2026
Mercedes-Benz India has expanded its retail network with the inauguration of a new luxury sales facility in Bhopal. Operated by its established franchise partner, Landmark Cars, this strategic move reinforces the brand's commitment to penetrating key emerging luxury markets and bringing its world-class offerings closer to discerning customers in growing urban centres.
Situated in the premium commercial complex of Habib Ganj, the 1,100-square-foot showroom was completed in just four and a half months, demonstrating the agility of the brand's retail operations. Its location ensures strong connectivity and access to Bhopal's existing and prospective luxury car clientele.
The outlet employs the innovative 'Stars at Mercedes-Benz' retail format, designed for high flexibility within urban settings. This concept allows for the seamless display of the brand's entire portfolio – including Mercedes-Maybach, AMG, G-Class and core Mercedes-Benz models – within a single space. Adaptable brand elements and optimised layouts enable easy switching between vehicle displays while maximising the use of luxury display areas. The format also dedicates space to exclusive customer consultations, ensuring a focused and personalised client experience.
Staffed by a team of trained professionals, this facility adds to Landmark Cars' network of nine Mercedes-Benz outlets nationwide, with plans for further growth based on market potential. This opening is part of Mercedes-Benz's broader strategy to deepen its presence across India's luxury consumption hubs. By combining modern retail formats with curated customer experiences, the brand continues to strengthen its leadership position, now boasting a presence in over 50 Indian cities with more than 140 luxury touchpoints.
Emrah Oezer, CFO and Executive Director, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “Mercedes-Benz continues its strong momentum in the Indian market in 2025, remaining the most desirable luxury automotive brand. Mercedes-Benz witnessed increase in sales in it’s top-end vehicles and BEV portfolio, along with strong performance in terms of revenue. This year we will launch 12 new products, expand of our local production portfolio, launch the MB.Charge Public, expand into new markets and invest in upgrading our entire network. Bhopal is an important emerging market for Mercedes-Benz and with a new state-of-art showroom, our discerning customers in Bhopal will have an elevated luxury retail experience synonymous with the values of trust, prestige and excellence associated with Mercedes-Benz.”
Sanjay Thakker, Chairman & Executive Director, Landmark Cars, said, “We are delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Mercedes-Benz by inaugurating a world-class luxury sales outlet in Bhopal, a city witnessing steady growth in premium automotive aspirations. This new facility reflects the global luxury standards of Mercedes-Benz, seamlessly integrating modern design, digital-enabled consultations and a highly personalised customer engagement model. Designed to deliver an immersive and refined purchase journey, the showroom offers customers a holistic luxury ecosystem under one roof, focused on exclusivity, comfort and convenience. We are confident this new touchpoint will resonate strongly with customers in Bhopal and the surrounding region, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz as the most aspirational and trusted luxury automotive brand.”
MG SELECT And Gaurav Gupta Unveil Sculptural Interpretation Of MG Cyberster
- By MT Bureau
- January 19, 2026
MG SELECT and designer Gaurav Gupta have collaborated to produce an artistic version of the MG Cyberster. The project was revealed on 17 January 2026 at the opening of the designer's menswear flagship store in New Delhi. The partnership integrates automotive engineering with textiles and sculpture.
The MG Cyberster is a convertible sportscar with a claimed acceleration of zero to 100 kmph in 3.2 seconds. The creative process for this interpretation lasted six months, focusing on translating speed into a visual language. The vehicle's exterior features brocade patchwork and zari embroidery, applying traditional Indian craft techniques to an industrial surface.
The car incorporates organic forms and tonal gradients that follow the vehicle's contours. A custom hood features the Serpent Infinity motif, a symbol used in the designer's previous collections to represent energy and transformation. This integration of material and form treats the vehicle as a moving artwork rather than a machine.
The project serves as a bridge between the automotive sector and the lifestyle market. It aligns with the launch of the MG SELECT brand, which focuses on the intersection of performance design, fashion, and culture.
Gaurav Gupta, said: “I approached the car as I do couture, shaping it with movement and energy. The Serpent Infinity extends my creative narrative into a new medium. Elements of traditional Indian embroidery and embellishment are reinterpreted for the automotive form, merging heritage craftsmanship with modern technology. Every surface and curve has a purpose.”
Milind Shah, Interim Head – MG SELECT, JSW MG Motor India, added, “We see MG SELECT as a bridge between automotive engineering and contemporary lifestyle, where a car becomes part of a wider ecosystem of fashion, art and culture. Our focus is on creating moments where performance-led design naturally intersects with the worlds our customers already engage with. The Cyberster represents a modern interpretation of the iconic roadster, and collaboration with Gaurav allows us to express that philosophy beyond the car itself, through form, materiality and emotion.”
Toyota Kirloskar Motor Completes 36th iCARE Project At Bengaluru School
- By MT Bureau
- January 19, 2026
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) has concluded its 36th iCARE initiative, an employee volunteerism programme, at the Government High School in Kengeri Upanagara, Bengaluru. The project involved over 590 volunteers, including employees and their families, who worked to renovate the school library and create educational materials.
The initiative focused on transforming the library into a functional reading space. Volunteers painted the facility, created wall murals and assembled new furniture, including racks, tables and chairs. They also added new books and established a cataloguing system. To support curriculum learning, the team produced 300 Science and Social Science educational cards designed to assist students with independent study and memory retention.
This project aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which identifies school libraries as resources for literacy and multilingual learning. TKM’s corporate social responsibility strategy focuses on six pillars: Education, Health & Hygiene, Environment, Skill Development, Road Safety and Disaster Management.
Since its inception in 2017, the iCARE programme has reached more than 68,800 students and community members near TKM’s operations. The programme utilises the company’s principles of kaizen (continuous improvement) to address local infrastructure needs.
Sudeep Dalvi, Chief Communication Officer and Project Senior Vice-President, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, said, "At Toyota, we believe education thrives when curiosity is nurtured and learning spaces inspire young minds. Through the 36th iCARE initiative, Toyota is promoting a culture of focus on education and reading with enthusiasm among students to instill them with confidence towards lifelong learning.”
The initiative was timed to coincide with International Education Month, focusing on the role of physical learning environments in foundational literacy.

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