Experience the New Mahindra Thar Rear Wheel Drive: Affordable Adventure Awaits
Mahindra has launched a new Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) variant of the Thar, making the iconic SUV more accessible. This 4×2 variant is an excellent option for those who love the Thar’s rugged appeal but don’t need a 4×4 system or have a tighter budget. With a significant price drop, this new Thar aims to be a game-changer in its segment.
Design and Exterior: Unchanged Iconic Looks
The new Thar RWD retains the bold and muscular design that makes it instantly recognizable. You’ll find no visual changes to the exterior compared to its 4×4 counterpart. Key exterior features include:
- Front Profile: It features the new Mahindra logo, a black grille, and familiar headlamps. Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) are placed at the top, with indicators below. Halogen fog lamps are integrated into the front bumper, which has a grey finish and a prominent “Thar” badging. The robust bumper also includes an engine guard for added protection.
- Side Profile: The side profile maintains the Thar’s bulky and adventurous stance. It rides on 18-inch alloy wheels with 255/65 R18 tires. Fender-mounted indicators, side steps, and manually foldable, electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors) are present. A key difference from the 4×4 model is the absence of “4×4” badging.
- Rear Design: The rear features a muscular spare wheel, LED taillights, and “Thar” branding. A high-mounted stop lamp is located at the top. The boot gate can be locked and unlocked via a button, and the black rear bumper houses two parking sensors and reflectors. The Thar RWD is available with a hardtop (as seen) and a softtop option.
- Dimensions & Ground Clearance: This Thar variant maintains the impressive 226 mm ground clearance. It has a length of 3985 mm, a width of 1855 mm, a height of 1844 mm, and a wheelbase of 2450 mm.
Interior: Comfort and Practicality
Step inside the Thar RWD, and you’ll find an interior that is largely identical to the 4×4 model, retaining its rugged and practical appeal. The main difference is the absence of the 4×4 gear lever.
- Dashboard & Controls: The dashboard features a black finish with hard plastic elements for a durable feel. It includes a modern infotainment system that supports Android Auto and USB. Air conditioning controls, traction control, and hill descent control buttons are conveniently placed.
- Seating & Space: The variant seen features fabric seats with four adjustable headrests. The rear seating can be a bit snug, requiring the front seat to be folded and slid forward for access. When the rear seats are folded, the Thar RWD offers approximately 600 liters of boot space, which reduces when the seats are upright.
- Driver’s Cockpit: The driver’s area includes a multi-function steering wheel with controls for infotainment, telephony, and cruise control. The instrument cluster features analog dials and a digital MID screen that displays essential information like trip details, average mileage, and fuel gauge. Power window controls are located on the center console, alongside storage spaces and two cup holders.
Engine and Performance: Efficient Power
The Thar Rear Wheel Drive variant offers distinct engine options, focusing on efficiency for city driving and highway cruising.
- Diesel Engine: The variant showcased features a 1.5-liter CRDe diesel engine, delivering 117 BHP of power and 300 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox and offers an approximate mileage of 17-18 kmpl.
- Petrol Engine: A petrol engine option is also available, which comes with an automatic transmission.
- Fuel Tank: Both variants are equipped with a 57-liter fuel tank.
Pricing and Color Options
The new Thar RWD comes with a significant price advantage, making it a more budget-friendly choice.
- Pricing: The RWD lineup starts from around ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The LX Diesel variant, as discussed, is priced at approximately ₹11.00 lakh (ex-showroom), with on-road prices around ₹13 lakh. This presents a saving of about ₹4-5 lakh compared to the 4×4 variants, which can go up to ₹17.85 lakh on-road.
- Color Options: The Thar RWD is offered in multiple colors, including Black, Red, Grey, Marine, and Rocky Beige. It also introduces two new color options: White and a distinctive Orange/Brown shade.
Safety Features
Mahindra prioritizes safety, and the Thar RWD includes a range of features to ensure a secure ride:
- ABS with EBD
- Dual Airbags
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Brake Assist
- Reverse Parking Sensors
The new Mahindra Thar Rear Wheel Drive is an appealing choice for those seeking the iconic Thar experience without the 4×4 system, benefiting from a more attractive price point and enhanced fuel efficiency. It is backed by a warranty of 2 years or 1 lakh kilometers.
