Mahindra Thar: A Detailed Look at Rear-Wheel Drive vs. 4×4 Variants
The Mahindra Thar is a popular SUV known for its robust performance and iconic design. It is available in both Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and 4×4 variants, offering options for different driving needs and budgets. This comparison highlights the key differences and similarities between these two Mahindra Thar models.
Price and Variants
The Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Mahindra Thar starts from an attractive price point of 9.9 lakh (ex-showroom). There is a significant price difference of about 4 to 5 lakh rupees between the RWD and 4×4 variants.
For specific pricing:
- The Mahindra Thar RWD variant has an ex-showroom price of 10.99 lakh rupees and an on-road price of 12.84 lakh rupees (in Lucknow).
- The Mahindra Thar 4×4 variant, with its larger engine, is priced at 15.60 lakh rupees ex-showroom and 17.64 lakh rupees on-road (in Lucknow).
The Thar is offered in AX (O) and LX variants, with LX being the top-end option.
Engine Specifications and Performance
There are notable differences in the engine options for the RWD and 4×4 Mahindra Thar models.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Thar: This variant features a 1500cc CRDe diesel engine. It produces 117 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque. It offers a mileage of approximately 17 to 18 kmpl.
- 4×4 Thar: The 4×4 variant comes with a 2.2-liter diesel engine. This engine delivers 130 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque, with a mileage of around 17 kmpl.
- Petrol Engine Option: Both RWD and 4×4 variants also offer a 2000cc mStallion petrol engine. This engine generates 150 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque, with the automatic version producing 320 Nm of torque.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Visually, both Mahindra Thar variants share many design elements.
- Colors: The RWD Thar is available in new color options, including white and a yellow-type color. The black Thar shown is an RWD variant, while the Galaxy Grey color is a 4×4 variant.
- Badging: A key exterior difference is the badging. The RWD variant does not have “4×4” badging on its side. The 4×4 diesel variant features “mHawk130” badging on the side.
- Dimensions: Both Thar models maintain similar dimensions: a length of 3985mm, a width of 1855mm, and a height of 1844mm. The wheelbase for both is 2450mm.
- Wheels and Brakes: Both variants come with 18-inch alloy wheels. They feature front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. The tire section is 255/65 R18. The RWD variant may be equipped with MRF tires.
- Shared Exterior Features: The front grille, bumper, and overall front and rear profiles are identical across both variants. Both have a 57-liter fuel tank capacity, muscular rear lights, and a high-mounted stop lamp. The black bumper with two parking sensors is also consistent.
- Antenna: An antenna is offered in both variants.
Interior Features and Differences
The interior of both the RWD and 4×4 Mahindra Thar is largely similar, designed for adventure.
- Dashboard and Controls: The dashboard layout, infotainment system, steering wheel with new Mahindra logo, and various mounted controls (including cruise control) are identical in both models. The instrument cluster and MID screen also remain the same.
- Key Difference: The most significant interior difference is the presence of the 4×4 transfer case lever. The RWD variant does not include this lever, which controls 4High and 4Low drive modes, as it’s not designed for advanced off-roading. The 4×4 variant, however, features this lever prominently for adventure driving.
- Other Features: Both cars offer remote central locking keys, speakers, traction control, hill descent control, and an infotainment system. Storage space in the glovebox is available for documents.
- Seating: Accessing the rear seats requires moving the front left-side seat forward.
Safety Features
Mahindra Thar prioritizes safety, offering a range of features in both variants. These include:
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
- EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
- Dual Airbags
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
- Brake Assist
- Hill Descent Control
- Speed Alert System
- Reverse Parking Sensors
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
Warranty and Competition
Mahindra provides a warranty of 2 years or 1 lakh kilometers for the Thar. The Mahindra Thar competes in the market with vehicles like the Force Gurkha and the recently introduced Maruti Jimny.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar offers compelling choices with its Rear-Wheel Drive and 4×4 variants. If extensive off-roading is not a priority, the RWD Thar presents a more accessible entry point into the Thar experience with its lower price and good mileage, making it a great option for everyday use and light adventures. For enthusiasts seeking serious off-road capabilities, the 4×4 variant with its advanced drive system remains the ideal choice. Both variants share the iconic design and essential features that make the Mahindra Thar a celebrated SUV.
