Mahindra Thar Rear Wheel Drive: The Perfect SUV for Your Budget

The Mahindra Thar is a highly popular and muscular SUV known for its robust performance. For those with a lower budget who do not require extensive off-roading capabilities, the new Mahindra Thar Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) variant offers a perfect option. This 4-seater SUV now comes with an updated price, making it even more accessible.

Pricing and Affordability

The base model of the Mahindra Thar RWD starts at an ex-showroom price of ₹9,99,000. Following recent GST changes, the price has become more competitive than before. The top-of-the-line LX Manual Transmission Rear Wheel Drive variant is priced at ₹12,19,000 ex-showroom. On-road pricing for this variant can be around ₹14,92,000, which includes accessories and extended warranty. Without these extras, the on-road price would be approximately ₹14,24,000.

Engine Options and Performance

The Mahindra Thar RWD is available with both diesel and petrol engine options.

The RWD diesel variant is powered by a 1.5-liter (1500cc) diesel engine, producing 116 BHP of power and 300 Nm of torque. This engine delivers an impressive mileage of 16 to 17 kilometers per liter.

For those preferring petrol, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder mStallion turbo petrol engine option is available. The petrol variant is priced higher, with the on-road cost around ₹16,49,000.

Exterior Design and Features

The Mahindra Thar RWD boasts a commanding exterior presence with several modern updates.

Front Profile

The front features a black grille and halogen-based headlamps, offering a classic yet powerful look. Indicators are integrated with DRLs (Daytime Running Lights). The bumper has been upgraded to a dual-tone design, featuring Thar branding, and houses halogen fog lamps. A solid, muscular hood and an engine guard provide robust protection. The ground clearance stands at an impressive 226 millimeters.

Side Profile

From the side, the Thar RWD showcases its tough stance. It comes with dual wipers and a hard-top roof. The SUV rides on 18-inch alloy wheels that feature Thar branding. Front wheels are equipped with disc brakes, while the rear has drum brakes. Wide, matte black cladding runs along the side, complementing the 255/65 R18 radial tires. Electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are included, though they fold manually. Body-colored A-pillars and practical foot-steps enhance convenience.

Rear Profile

The rear profile is equally muscular. The RWD variant now includes an alloy spare wheel, a reverse parking camera, and a large touchscreen inside. LED backlights with Thar branding, turn indicators, and reverse lights are integrated. A rear wiper, defogger, and a high-mount stop lamp are also present. The dual-tone bumper (black and grey) features two reverse parking sensors, adding to driving safety.

Dimensions

The Mahindra Thar RWD offers substantial dimensions for a confident road presence:

• Length: 3985 mm
• Width: 1820 mm
• Height: 1855 mm
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm
• Ground Clearance: 226 mm

Interior Comfort and Technology

The interior of the Mahindra Thar RWD has received significant upgrades, focusing on comfort and connectivity.

Dashboard and Controls

The dashboard features an all-black theme. The instrument cluster includes an RPM meter, speedometer with a 180 km/h marking, and a Multi-Information Display (MID) screen. The MID provides various details such as seatbelt reminders, audio information, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), warning history, settings, trip details, range, mileage, fuel gauge, and temperature.

The steering wheel, similar to the Thar RX, features controls for the MID, cruise control, and telephone/infotainment functions. It is also tilt-adjustable for driver comfort. Front power window controls are now conveniently located on the doors, along with ORVM controls and space for a 1-liter bottle. Fabric seats with side leather-touch accents offer height and recline adjustment. A dedicated button for opening the fuel cap from inside the cabin is a new addition.

Infotainment System

A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a key highlight, upgraded from the previous 7-inch unit. It offers seamless connectivity with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with USB and AUX inputs. The system also integrates the newly added reverse parking camera. Physical buttons for home, music, call, and volume control are located below the screen.

Center Console and Seating

The center console houses manual AC controls for fan speed, temperature, and airflow. Other physical buttons include a hazard light switch, traction control, hill descent control, lock/unlock, seatbelt reminder, and airbag on/off. It features one Type A and one Type C USB port, storage space, and a 6-speed manual transmission. A manual handbrake, two cup holders, and an armrest with storage are also provided. Rear passengers now benefit from dedicated AC vents and a 12V charging outlet. The rear seats are 50-50 foldable, allowing for increased boot space.

Boot Space

The Mahindra Thar RWD offers 226 liters of boot space. The rear seats can be folded completely flat to accommodate larger luggage.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount in the Mahindra Thar RWD, equipped with a comprehensive suite of features:

• ABS with EBD (Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
• Dual Airbags
• Reverse Parking Sensors
• Reverse Parking Camera
• Speed Alert System
• Seatbelt Warning
• Engine Immobilizer
• Crash Sensor
• Traction Control
• ESP (Electronic Stability Program)
• TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)
• Hill Descent Control

Availability and Offers

Due to high demand, there are currently no special discounts available on the Mahindra Thar Rear Wheel Drive variant. However, attractive financing options are available. For instance, a loan of ₹10,00,000 (after a down payment of ₹4,24,000) could result in EMIs of ₹31,000 for 3 years, ₹20,000 for 5 years, or ₹16,000 for 7 years.