Discover the Mahindra Thar: An Iconic Off-Road SUV
The Mahindra Thar is a highly popular and muscular SUV. It’s a favorite among many, especially youngsters, for its adventurous spirit and rugged looks. This article focuses on the third-generation Thar, specifically the top-end diesel automatic model, highlighting its features and pricing.
Pricing and Variants
The Thar is available with both petrol and diesel engine options, offering both manual and automatic transmissions across its variants.
- Petrol Manual: Prices start from ₹13.17 Lakh (ex-showroom).
- Diesel Automatic (Top Model): This variant is priced at ₹15.53 Lakh (ex-showroom).
- There are a total of four variants available.
For example, an on-road price for a diesel top model could be around ₹16.65 Lakh, and a petrol manual top model might be around ₹13.99 Lakh, though exact prices vary.
Striking Exterior Design
The Thar boasts an impressive and muscular exterior design, perfect for an off-road vehicle.
- Front: It features a prominent Mahindra logo, a well-designed grille, and Thar branding on the bumper. The headlights are normal halogen, accompanied by upper DRLs (Daytime Running Lights) and lower indicators. Halogen fog lamps are also included.
- Side: The side profile is muscular. The black and red color combination is particularly attractive. It rides on large 18-inch alloy wheels with Mahindra branding. The tires are 255/65 R18. Footrests are provided for easy entry. Electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) also carry Thar branding.
- Rear: The rear design is equally appealing, with a large spare wheel mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged appeal. It features LED taillights with Thar branding, a defogger (in top models), and a high-mount stop lamp. The 4×4 branding highlights its off-road capability. Rear parking sensors are also present.
- Ground Clearance: A significant feature for off-roading, the Thar offers a ground clearance of 226 mm.
- Hard Top: This model comes with a hard top.
Powerful Engine Options
The Mahindra Thar offers a choice of two powerful engines:
- 2.2-liter Diesel Engine: This engine produces 130 BHP of power and 300 Nm of torque. It offers an approximate mileage of 15 kmpl.
- 2.0-liter Petrol Engine: This engine delivers 150 BHP of power. It produces 300 Nm of torque with a manual transmission and 320 Nm of torque with an automatic transmission.
Both engines come with 4×4 drivetrain options, ensuring excellent off-road performance.
Thoughtful Interior Features
The interior is designed to be functional and durable, suitable for an adventure vehicle.
- Key and Locking: It uses a normal key for central locking, without a keyless entry system.
- Dashboard: The dashboard has a sturdy design. The front seats are height-adjustable.
- Instrument Cluster: It features an analog instrument cluster with a digital MID (Multi-Information Display) in the center. The MID shows information like trip meters, time, fuel average, and range.
- Steering: The steering wheel has a Mahindra logo, controls for the infotainment system and calls, and cruise control. It offers tilt adjustment.
- Infotainment System: A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system is included, supporting Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and navigation. It connects to four speakers and two tweeters (located in the roof).
- AC Controls: The Thar comes with manual AC controls, not automatic climate control.
- Connectivity: It provides a 12V charging socket and a USB port.
- 4×4 Lever: A dedicated lever for the 4×4 transfer case is present.
- Power Window Controls: Front power window controls are located on the center console.
- Storage: The glove box is relatively small, offering limited storage.
- Rear Seating: Access to the second row is by folding the front passenger seat. The rear seating is compact, more suited for short trips. Roof lights and grab handles are available in the rear.
- Boot Space: The tailgate opens sideways. There isn’t much boot space with all seats upright, but the seats can be folded to create more cargo room. A tool kit is stored in the boot.
Safety and Driving Aids
The Thar prioritizes safety with several features:
- Airbags: Dual airbags are provided.
- Braking System: It includes ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), and Brake Assist.
- Stability Control: ESP (Electronic Stability Program) and Hill Hold Control enhance driving stability and control.
- Parking: Rear parking sensors assist in maneuvering the vehicle.
- Brakes: The front wheels have disc brakes, while the rear wheels have drum brakes.
Demand and Waiting Period
The Mahindra Thar is in very high demand. The waiting period can be around one year, though this can vary depending on the city and specific variant. Its popularity underscores its appeal as a robust and desirable off-road SUV.
