Discover the Mahindra Thar: A Rugged SUV
The Mahindra Thar is known as a popular choice for many, offering a tough and capable design. This article explores the key features, specifications, and options available in this robust vehicle.
Exterior Design and Highlights
The Thar features a blackout design, giving it a strong look. You will see Thar branding on the body. It has a solid bumper and an engine guard below for protection. The vehicle offers an impressive ground clearance of 226 millimeters, making it suitable for various terrains without worrying about scraping the bottom. It comes with a dual wiper and washer system at the front. This specific model features a hard top roof, providing a rigid structure.
Side Profile and Dimensions
Looking at the side, the Thar is equipped with large 18-inch alloy wheels that also carry Mahindra branding. Side indicators are placed on the fenders, and an antenna is located on the side for radio reception. Depending on the variant, you might find 4×4 badging, which is missing in the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models. The outside mirrors have a matte black finish.
The overall dimensions of the Thar are:
- Length: 3985 millimeters
- Width: 1855 millimeters
- Height: 1844 millimeters These dimensions remain consistent across both RWD and 4×4 variants.
The outside mirrors are manually foldable and electrically adjustable, also featuring Thar branding. Door handles are in a matte black finish. At the rear, the vehicle has normal drum brakes. The fuel filler cap is located at the back and requires a key to open. The diesel version uses AdBlue. The fuel tank capacity is 57 liters.
Rear View and Boot Space
The rear profile of the Thar also looks muscular and sturdy. Like the front, the rear alloy wheel, which serves as a spare, also has Mahindra branding. The taillights are LED. The rear bumper is solid, and the suspension setup is visible. The exhaust pipe is placed below. The ground clearance of 226 millimeters is ideal for off-roading.
The Thar, being a two-door model, has limited boot space. To access it, a two-step process is needed: first, the lower part opens, then the glass panel. This space is enough for a small trolley bag or some essentials. The rear seats can be folded in a 50:50 split ratio to create more luggage room. A high-mounted stop lamp is located at the top. For more spacious options, a five-door Thar is expected in the future.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the Thar features a full black dashboard. The instrument cluster includes an RPM meter, speedometer, and a multi-information display (MID) showing details like audio, trip information, range, and settings. It also displays fuel gauge, temperature bars, and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) icon.
The steering wheel, with the Mahindra logo, is tilt-adjustable and does not have any wrap. Manual controls for headlights and wipers are on the stalks. The AC vents are round with a glossy black finish. A 7 to 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It shows features like Bluetooth connectivity, sound settings, and adventure statistics. However, a reverse parking camera is not included but can be added as an accessory.
Below the touchscreen are manual AC controls, a hazard light switch, traction control, hill descent control, and a lock/unlock button. There’s also an airbag on/off switch for the co-driver. Connectivity options include a USB port, AUX port, and a 12-volt charging outlet. Storage space is available for mobile phones and small items.
The Thar comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. In the RWD variant, the 4×4 selector lever is absent. Front power window controls are conveniently placed on the center console. The vehicle has a handbrake and two glass holders. The glove box is small, suitable for documents. Safety features include dual airbags as standard. The IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) is manually adjustable. Sun visors are provided, with a vanity mirror on the co-driver’s side.
Rear Seating Experience
Accessing the rear seats involves sliding the front seat forward. From the back, the front dashboard and AC vents are visible. Due to the vehicle’s compact size, the front AC cooling reaches the rear effectively. Rear legroom and headroom are available, but as an off-roading vehicle, comfort might not be its primary focus. Passengers can add aftermarket armrests for more comfort. The roof has speakers and tweeters, along with a white LED roof light. The rear seats are 50:50 foldable, and both have adjustable headrests. Two adults can sit comfortably in the rear.
Engine Options and Performance
The Thar offers multiple engine choices:
-
1.5-liter Diesel Engine (RWD):
- Power: 117 BHP
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Mileage: Approximately 17 kmpl
-
2.2-liter mHawk Diesel Engine (4×4):
- Power: 130 BHP
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Mileage: Approximately 14-15 kmpl
-
2.0-liter mStallion Petrol Engine:
- Power: 150 BHP
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Mileage: Approximately 10-12 kmpl
The RWD diesel variant differs significantly in engine power from the 4×4 diesel variant.
Color Options and Pricing
The Mahindra Thar is available in several colors, including white, red, black, yellow, and grey.
For the top-model rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant, the approximate prices are:
- Ex-showroom price: ₹13,85,000
- On-road price (Lucknow): ₹15,05,000
The 4×4 variant is generally priced around ₹18,00,000 plus on-road, showing a notable price difference from the RWD model.
Safety Features and Warranty
Safety is well-addressed in the Thar, with features including:
- ABS with EBD
- Dual Airbags
- Reverse Parking Sensors
- Speed Alert System
- Seat Belt Warning
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Traction Control
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Descent Control
The Thar comes with a standard warranty of 2 years or 1,00,000 kilometers, which can be extended for an additional cost.
