Is it the rugged looks? The road presence? Or just the sheer joy of driving a tank? Here is everything you need to know about the Mahindra Thar phenomenon.
The Mahindra Thar is no longer just a vehicle; it has become an emotion for Indian drivers. Once a rough-and-tumble machine for off-road enthusiasts, it has evolved into a lifestyle icon. With the launch of the new 5-door “Thar ROXX” and the budget-friendly RWD version, there is now a Thar for almost everyone.
Here is a friendly breakdown of why this SUV is taking over the roads.
1. The “Thar ROXX”: Finally, a Thar for the Family
For years, the 3-door Thar was the cool car that wasn’t very practical for families. Enter the Thar ROXX (5-door), launched in August 2024.
- Not Just a Stretched Version: Mahindra didn’t just pull the 3-door version longer. The ROXX is a heavily reworked SUV that feels different to drive, offering a massive leap in sophistication.
- Loaded with Tech: It comes with features that were previously unimaginable in a Thar, such as a panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), and a 10.27-inch touchscreen.
- Family Comfort: It solves the biggest complaint of the 3-door version—getting into the back seat. With rear doors and adequate legroom, it can now serve as the primary car for a household.
- Power: It packs a punch with the 2.2L mHawk diesel and 2.0L mStallion petrol engines, refined to be smooth and quiet.
2. The Budget-Friendly Hero: Thar RWD (Rear Wheel Drive)
If you want the “Thar look” but don’t plan on climbing mountains, the RWD version is a game-changer.
- Value for Money: By removing the 4×4 gear, Mahindra dropped the price significantly, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Surprisingly Good Engine: The 1.5L diesel engine (shared with the XUV300) might sound small, but it is peppy, refined, and excellent for city driving.
- Better Mileage: Because it is lighter and has a smaller engine, the RWD diesel is far more fuel-efficient than its 4×4 siblings.
- The Catch: You lose the off-road capability and the convertible soft-top option—it is available only with a hard top.
3. Petrol vs. Diesel: Which One Should You Buy?
Choosing between the two depends on your driving habits:
- Choose Diesel if: You drive long distances. The diesel variants offer superior fuel efficiency (approx. 10–12 km/l in the city) and lower running costs. It is also the better choice for torque-heavy off-roading.
- Choose Petrol if: You want a spirited, fast drive. The petrol engine is powerful and smooth but can be thirsty, delivering single-digit mileage in city traffic.
4. The “Swag” Factor: Customisation
One of the best things about the Thar is how easy it is to make it unique. According to customization catalogues, the options are endless:
- Angry Grilles: You can swap the stock grille for aggressive “angry bird” or Wrangler-style grilles.
- Hard Tops: For older or soft-top models, aftermarket Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP) or metal hard tops provide better insulation and safety.
- Interiors: From red and black bucket seats to customised armrests and roof-mounted speakers, you can turn the cabin into a luxury lounge.
- Off-Road Gear: Serious enthusiasts can add snorkels for water wading, heavy-duty winches for rescue, and lift kits for better ground clearance.
5. Is It Perfect? (The Cons)
While the Thar is lovable, it has its quirks:
- Bumpy Ride: Being a body-on-frame SUV, the ride quality can be “busy” and bumpy. You will feel the road imperfections, unlike in a soft crossover like the Creta or XUV700.
- Practicality Issues: The 3-door version has a laughably small boot (struggles with holiday luggage) and difficult access to the rear seats.
- Ride Handling: It is a tall vehicle, so high-speed cornering is not its strength. It is best enjoyed at cruising speeds of 100–110 km/h.
The Verdict
The Mahindra Thar has successfully transitioned from a niche off-roader to a mainstream obsession. Whether you buy the RWD for city style, the 4×4 for adventure, or the ROXX for the family, you are buying a vehicle with unmatched character. It might not be the most comfortable ride on the market, but it is certainly one of the most exciting.
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes
Dhanush, an automobile expert with over 5 years of experience in the latest auto news and updates. Your go-to source for every development in the world of cars and bikes