Mahindra Thar SUV: Features, Performance, and Variants
This article explores the Mahindra Thar SUV, a popular choice in its segment. It is available in two main variants: the A Optional (base model) and the LX (top model). Buyers can choose between manual and automatic transmission options. The Thar competes with other vehicles like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha.
Exterior Design and Features
The Mahindra Thar boasts a strong exterior. The front includes LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) that also act as indicators. Halogen fog lamps are present, and the bumper feels solid with an engine guard below. This SUV offers an impressive 226 mm of ground clearance. It also has dual wipers and washers.
From the side, the Thar is available in multiple colors like Black, Red, Grey, Aquamarine, Rocky Beige, White, and Brown. It sports large 18-inch alloy wheels. The front wheels come with disc brakes, and the tires are 255/65 R18 Radials. Indicators are placed on the fender. Broad body cladding and chrome inserts add to its rugged look. A footstep is provided for easy entry.
The rear profile features drum brakes. The 4×4 variant carries a distinct badge. The spare wheel is an LED unit, and the LED backlights prominently display ‘Thar’ branding. A defogger and a high-mount stop lamp are located above. The boot can be unlocked using a key. The black bumper includes reflectors and two reverse parking sensors; a reverse parking camera can be added as an accessory. The exhaust pipe is visible on one side.
Robust Performance and Engine Options
The Mahindra Thar offers powerful engine choices. The 2.2-liter, 4-cylinder mHawk diesel engine produces 130 BHP power and 300 Nm torque, giving about 15 kmpl mileage. For petrol, there is a 2.0-liter mStallion engine with 150 BHP power and 300 Nm torque, offering around 12 kmpl mileage. A 1500cc diesel engine option is also available for the Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) variant.
The diesel fuel tank capacity is 57 liters, and it also uses Urea (AdBlue). The fuel flap opens with a classic key mechanism. Both manual and automatic transmission options are available, alongside the capable 4×4 drivetrain, which includes a lever for 4-high and 4-low.
Spacious and Feature-Rich Interior
The interior of the Thar features an all-black dashboard made of hard plastic. For off-roading, a grab handle is provided for the co-passenger. The glove box is small, suitable mainly for documents.
The multi-function steering wheel has controls for the infotainment system and phone calls, with a silver finish. It offers tilt adjustment for driver comfort. Headlight controls are on the left, and wiper controls are on the right. The AC vents have a glossy black ring design with chrome accents.
The instrument cluster includes an RPM meter on the left and a speedometer on the right, marked up to 180. A multi-display (MD) screen in the middle shows temperature, fuel level, DPF/Urea status, trip details, average mileage, range, and audio information.
The center console houses a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It supports voice commands and displays fuel information like mileage and range. Below this, there are manual AC controls, a hazard light switch, traction control, hill descent control, and an airbag on/off switch for the co-passenger. You will also find a 12V charging outlet, Type-A, and USB ports, along with space for a mobile phone.
The doors are entirely black and feature ‘Thar’ branding on the scuff plates. The key is a flip remote with central locking, lock, unlock, and buzzer buttons. Electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are controlled from inside. The seats are height adjustable and offer recline function. A manually adjustable IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) is present. The sun visors include a ticket holder on the driver’s side and a vanity mirror on the co-passenger’s side. The car features a hardtop roof, but a soft-top option is available, which is slightly more affordable. The cabin lighting is white, and the sound system includes two tweeters and two speakers.
To access the rear seats, the front passenger seat needs to be folded and slid forward. While comfortable for short journeys, the rear seating is designed more for a rugged vehicle than ultimate comfort. It offers good knee room and legroom, though thigh support is average. Rear passengers also have adjustable headrests and seatbelt points.
Key Dimensions and Practicality
The Mahindra Thar measures 3985 mm in length, 1855 mm in width, and 1844 mm in height. Its wheelbase is 2450 mm.
Boot space is generally limited. However, folding both rear seats can expand the cargo area to approximately 600 liters.
Advanced Safety Features
The Thar is equipped with multiple safety features. These include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), two airbags, reverse parking sensors, a speed alert system, seatbelt reminders, traction control, TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), and hill assist.
Pricing and Variants
The LX Diesel Manual Transmission top model has an ex-showroom price of around 15,51,000. On-road in Lucknow, it is approximately 18,41,000.
The Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) variant is priced at an ex-showroom rate of about 12,48,000, and its on-road price in Lucknow is around 14,90,000.
The Mahindra Thar SUV offers a blend of rugged design, powerful performance, and essential features for an adventurous drive. With various engine and transmission options, along with crucial safety features, it stands as a strong contender in its segment.
