Mahindra Thar – Complete Overview

The Mahindra Thar is one of India's most iconic lifestyle off-road SUVs, designed for adventure enthusiasts who want a vehicle capable of conquering rough terrains while still being suitable for daily driving. The second-generation Thar combines rugged off-road capability with modern features, improved comfort, and enhanced safety. With its bold design, commanding road presence, and multiple engine and drivetrain options, the Thar remains one of the most desirable SUVs in its segment.

Mahindra Thar Price in India

The Mahindra Thar is priced between ₹9.99 lakh and ₹17.62 lakh (ex-showroom). It is available in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations, with petrol and diesel engine choices.

Engine and Performance

The Thar comes with multiple engine options to suit different driving needs:

1.5-litre Diesel Engine

  • Power: 116.93 bhp
  • Torque: 300 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed Manual
  • Drive Type: RWD

2.0-litre Turbo Petrol Engine

  • Power: 150.19 bhp
  • Torque: Up to 320 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic
  • Drive Type: RWD and 4WD

2.2-litre mHawk Diesel Engine

  • Power: Up to 130 bhp
  • Torque: Up to 300 Nm
  • Transmission: Manual / Automatic
  • Drive Type: 4WD

The Thar's powerful engines provide strong low-end torque, making it highly capable on challenging terrains while also delivering decent highway performance.

Off-Road Capability

The Mahindra Thar is built for adventure and features:

  • Part-time 4WD system
  • Low-range transfer case
  • Mechanical locking differential
  • Electric driveline disconnect
  • 226 mm ground clearance
  • Excellent approach and departure angles
  • Water wading capability
  • High-strength ladder-frame chassis

These features allow the Thar to tackle rocky trails, mud, sand dunes, and steep inclines with confidence.

Exterior Design

The Thar retains its classic off-road SUV styling while incorporating modern elements:

  • Signature seven-slot grille
  • Circular headlamps
  • Muscular wheel arches
  • Hard-top roof design
  • Large alloy wheels
  • Wide stance and rugged body cladding
  • LED DRLs and tail lamps
  • Removable roof and doors on select variants

Its bold and aggressive appearance ensures strong road presence wherever it goes.

Interior and Comfort

The cabin has been significantly improved over the previous generation and offers:

  • Premium dashboard design
  • Washable interior surfaces
  • Fabric seats
  • Rear seats with improved comfort
  • Rear AC vents
  • Cruise control
  • Tilt-adjustable steering wheel
  • Electrically adjustable ORVMs
  • Multiple storage spaces

While comfort has improved considerably, the Thar still prioritizes ruggedness over luxury.

Features

Depending on the variant, the Thar offers:

  • 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Digital instrument cluster
  • Cruise control
  • Steering-mounted controls
  • Rear parking camera
  • Keyless entry
  • Power windows
  • Roof-mounted speakers
  • Connected car technology

These features make the Thar suitable for both daily commuting and long road trips.

Safety Features

The Mahindra Thar has received a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating and comes equipped with:

  • Dual front airbags
  • ABS with EBD
  • Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
  • Hill Hold Control
  • Hill Descent Control
  • Roll-over mitigation
  • Traction control
  • Rear parking sensors
  • Rear-view camera
  • ISOFIX child-seat mounts

The strong chassis and advanced safety systems enhance occupant protection both on and off the road.

Ride and Handling

The Thar offers a comfortable ride considering its off-road-focused nature.

City Driving

  • Commanding driving position
  • Light steering at low speeds
  • Good visibility
  • Easy maneuverability for an SUV of its size

Highway Driving

  • Stable at cruising speeds
  • Powerful engines make overtaking easy
  • Improved refinement compared to older Thar models

Off-Road Driving

  • Exceptional capability on rough terrain
  • Excellent traction and wheel articulation
  • Confidence-inspiring 4WD system

Variants

AXT RWD Diesel

  • Dual airbags
  • ABS and ESP
  • Vinyl seats
  • Hard-top roof

LXT RWD Diesel

  • Touchscreen infotainment
  • Wireless smartphone connectivity
  • Cruise control
  • Rear camera
  • Alloy wheels
  • Rear AC vents

LXT RWD Automatic

  • Petrol engine
  • 6-speed automatic transmission

LXT 4WD

  • Part-time 4WD system
  • Low-range gearbox
  • Enhanced off-road equipment

LXT 4WD Diesel AT

  • Diesel engine
  • Automatic transmission
  • Full off-road capability

Recommended Variant

The LXT RWD Diesel MT is the most value-for-money variant. It offers essential comfort and convenience features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, alloy wheels, cruise control, rear camera, and modern safety equipment without the additional cost of the 4WD system.

Pros

  • Excellent off-road capability
  • Strong road presence
  • Powerful petrol and diesel engines
  • Modern infotainment and safety features
  • Available in RWD and 4WD options
  • Strong build quality
  • High resale value

Cons

  • Limited rear-seat practicality
  • Boot space is not class-leading
  • Ride quality can feel firm on rough city roads
  • Not as comfortable as conventional family SUVs
  • Fuel efficiency is average

Verdict

The Mahindra Thar is not just an SUV; it is a lifestyle vehicle built for adventure seekers. Its combination of rugged styling, powerful engines, modern features, and exceptional off-road capability makes it one of the most desirable off-road SUVs in India. While it may not be the most practical family vehicle, few SUVs can match the Thar's character, road presence, and ability to tackle challenging terrains with ease.