The Mahindra Thar is a retro-styled SUV that has been a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts in India for many years. The new Thar, which was launched in 2020, is a significant improvement over the previous model, with a more modern design, more powerful engines, and a more comfortable interior.
Mahindra Thar Design
The Thar’s design is a mix of old and new. It retains the iconic boxy shape of the original Thar, but with a more modern twist. The front end features a large grille with Mahindra’s new logo, and the headlights are now LED. The sides of the Thar are relatively simple, with only a few body claddings and roof rails. The rear end features a tailgate with a spare tire mounted on it, and the taillights are also LED.
The Thar is available in two body styles: a three-door and a five-door. The three-door is the more popular choice, as it is more suited for off-roading. The five-door is a better choice for those who need more space for passengers and cargo.
Mahindra Thar Engines
The Thar is available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine and a 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine. The petrol engine produces 150 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque, while the diesel engine produces 132 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
Mahindra Thar Performance
The Thar is a capable off-road vehicle. It has a ground clearance of 226 mm and a water wading depth of 650 mm. It also comes with a number of off-road features, such as a limited-slip differential, a rear differential lock, and a hill descent control system.
Mahindra Thar Interior
The Thar’s interior is a significant improvement over the previous model. It is now more modern and comfortable. The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system. The seats are also more comfortable, and there is more space for passengers and cargo.
Mahindra Thar Features
The Thar comes with a number of features, including:
A touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
A digital instrument cluster
Automatic climate control
Cruise control
Power windows and mirrors
Keyless entry
Push-button start
Mahindra Thar Safety
The Thar has been awarded a four-star safety rating by Global NCAP. It comes with a number of safety features, including:
Dual front airbags
Side airbags
ABS with EBD
Traction control
Electronic stability control
Mahindra Thar Off-road performance
The Thar is one of the best off-road vehicles in its class. It has a number of features that make it ideal for off-roading, such as its high ground clearance, water wading depth, and off-road tires. It also comes with a number of off-road features, such as a limited-slip differential, a rear differential lock, and a hill descent control system.
Mahindra Thar Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar is a great all-around vehicle. It is capable off-road, comfortable on-road, and has a number of features that make it a practical choice for everyday use. It is also relatively affordable, making it a good value for money.
Mahindra Thar Pros
Capable off-road performance
Comfortable on-road ride
Practical for everyday use
Affordable
Retro-styled design
Mahindra Thar Cons
Fuel economy could be better
Interior could be more luxurious
Noise levels can be high on the highway
The Mahindra Thar is a great choice for those who are looking for a capable off-road vehicle that is also practical for everyday use. It is a good value for money, and it has a retro-styled design that is sure to turn heads.
Mahindra Thar Key Specifications
Price
₹ 10.55 – 16.78 Lakh
Fuel Type
Diesel, Petrol
Transmission
Manual, Automatic (TC)
Engine Size
1497 cc, 1997 cc, 2184 cc
Mileage
12.75 – 15 km/l
Safety Rating
4 Star (Global NCAP)
Ground Clearance (mm)
226 mm
Avg. Waiting Period
3 – 75 Weeks
Warranty
3 Years (Unlimited KMs)
Seating Capacity
4 People
Size
3985 mm L X 1820 mm W X 1844 mm H
Fuel Tank
45L, 57L
Mahindra Thar Key Features:
Unmatched off-road capability: The Thar is a true off-roader, with features such as a shift-on-the-fly 4×4 transfer case with low range, a locking differential, and a ground clearance of 226mm. It can also wade through water up to 650mm deep.
Three roof options: The Thar is available with three roof options: hard top, soft top, and convertible. This gives buyers the flexibility to choose the roof that best suits their needs and lifestyle.
Retro-cool design: The Thar has a classic design that harks back to its off-road roots. However, it also has a number of modern features, such as LED headlights and daytime running lights.
Comfortable interior: The Thar’s interior has been redesigned for 2023, and it is now more comfortable and spacious than ever before. It also comes with a number of features that are typically found in more expensive cars, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, and power windows.
Safety features: The Thar has been awarded a four-star safety rating by Global NCAP. It comes with a number of safety features, such as dual airbags, ABS, ESP, and a built-in roll cage.
Other key features of the Mahindra Thar include:
Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
Tyre direction monitoring system (TDMS)
Follow-me-home lamps
Rear demister (hard top)
Fog lamps
Rear parking sensors
Electric ORVM adjustment
Touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
BlueSense App connectivity
Voice commands
Front power windows
Cruise control
Tilt adjustable steering wheel
Steering mounted controls
The Mahindra Thar is a versatile and capable SUV that is perfect for both on-road and off-road driving. It offers a comfortable and spacious interior, a number of modern features, and a high level of safety.
Who should buy the Mahindra Thar?
The Mahindra Thar is a good choice for buyers who are looking for the following:
A capable off-road vehicle
A fun-to-drive SUV
A distinctive and eye-catching design
An affordable price
Who should not buy the Mahindra Thar?
The Mahindra Thar is not a good choice for buyers who are looking for the following:
A practical and spacious SUV
A comfortable ride on-road
A fully-loaded feature list
A reliable after-sales service
If you are looking for an SUV that can do it all, the Mahindra Thar is not the best choice. However, if you are looking for a fun and capable off-road vehicle that is affordable and stylish, the Thar is a great option.
Mahindra Thar Mileage
Fuel Type
Transmission
City Mileage (kmpl)
Highway Mileage (kmpl)
ARAI Mileage (kmpl)
Diesel
Manual
9.0
11.0
15.2
Diesel
Automatic
10.0
12.0
15.2
Petrol
Manual
8.0
10.0
15.2
Petrol
Automatic
8.0
10.0
15.2
The Mahindra Thar is available in two engine options: a 2.2-liter diesel engine and a 2.0-liter petrol engine. Both engines are available with either a manual or automatic transmission.
ARAI mileage (claimed by the manufacturer)
Diesel manual: 15.2 kmpl
Diesel automatic: 9.0 kmpl
Petrol manual: 15.2 kmpl
Petrol automatic: 15.2 kmpl
Owner-reported mileage
Diesel manual: 14-16.3 kmpl
Diesel automatic: 11-13 kmpl
Petrol manual: 12-14 kmpl
Petrol automatic: 12-14 kmpl
It is important to note that the actual mileage you will get will vary depending on a number of factors, including driving style, road conditions, and load. For example, you can expect to get lower mileage if you are driving in city traffic or towing a trailer.
Overall, the Mahindra Thar’s mileage is not the best in its class, but it is still comparable to other SUVs of its size and type. If fuel efficiency is a top priority for you, you may want to consider a different SUV. However, if you are looking for a capable off-roader with a unique style, the Thar is a great option.
Mahindra Thar Editor Review
9.4Expert Score
Mahindra Thar is a great vehicle for those who are looking for a capable off-roader that is also stylish and comfortable. It is value for money and comes with a number of features. However, it is important to keep in mind the long waiting periods and the fact that it is not the most practical vehicle for everyday use.
Exterior Design
9.4
Comfort
8.8
Performance
9.4
Fuel Economomy
8.4
Value For Money
9
PROS
Capable off-roader
Rugged and durable
Value for money
Stylish design
Comfortable cabin
CONS
Long waiting periods
Not the most practical vehicle for everyday use
Fuel economy could be better
Mahindra Thar Alternatives
Mahindra Thar
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
Mahindra Scorpio
Jeep Wrangler
Price
₹ 10.55 Lakh
₹ 12.74 Lakh
₹ 13.00 Lakh
₹ 60.60 Lakh
Fuel Type
Diesel
Petrol
Diesel
Petrol
Engine Size
1497 cc
1462 cc
2184 cc
1995 cc
Transmission
Manual
Manual
Manual
Automatic (TC)
Power
117 bhp @ 3500 rpm
103 bhp @ 6000 rpm
130 bhp @ 3750 rpm
268 bhp @ 5150 rpm
Torque
300 Nm @ 1750 rpm
134.2 Nm @ 4000 rpm
300 Nm @ 1600 rpm
400 Nm @ 3000 rpm
Safety Rating
4 Star (Global NCAP)
Not Tested
Not Tested
1 Star (Euro NCAP)
Boot Space
–
208 litres
–
897 litres
Ground Clearance
226 mm
210 mm
209 mm
214 mm
Size
3985 mm L X 1820 mm W X 1844 mm H
3985 mm L X 1645 mm W X 1720 mm H
4456 mm L X 1820 mm W X 1995 mm H
4882 mm L X 1894 mm W X 1838 mm H
Mahindra Thar FAQs
Is the Mahindra Thar a 7-seater?
No, the Mahindra Thar is not a 7-seater. It is available in either a 4-seater or 6-seater configuration.
What is the mileage of the Mahindra Thar?
The ARAI-certified mileage of the Mahindra Thar ranges from 13 kmpl to 15.2 kmpl, depending on the variant. The least efficient variant is the diesel manual, while the most efficient variant is the petrol automatic.
What is the price of the Mahindra Thar?
The price of the Mahindra Thar ranges from ₹13.59 lakh to ₹15.99 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). The petrol variants are slightly more expensive than the diesel variants.
Is the Mahindra Thar a good buy?
Whether or not the Mahindra Thar is a good buy depends on your needs and requirements. If you are looking for a capable off-roader that is also stylish and comfortable, then the Thar is a great option. However, if you are looking for a practical vehicle for everyday use, then there are other options available that may be better suited to your needs.
Is Mahindra Thar a good car for long drives
Yes, the Mahindra Thar is a good car for long drives. It has a comfortable cabin and a powerful engine that makes it easy to cruise on highways. However, it is important to note that the Thar is a noisy vehicle, so it may not be ideal for long-distance drives with young children or passengers who are sensitive to noise.
What is the price of Mahindra Thar top model?
The price of the Mahindra Thar top model, the LX Diesel AT Hard Top, starts at ₹16.49 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi).
Which variant of Mahindra Thar should I buy?
The best variant of Mahindra Thar to buy depends on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a basic off-roader, then the LX variant is a good option. If you want more features and comfort, then the AX variant is a better choice.
Should I buy a Mahindra Thar?
Whether or not you should buy a Mahindra Thar depends on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a rugged and capable off-roader, then the Thar is a great option. However, if you are looking for a comfortable and practical car for everyday use, then the Thar may not be the best choice.
Is Mahindra Thar a good choice for me?
If you are looking for a rugged and reliable off-road vehicle that is also well-equipped and comfortable for daily use, then the Mahindra Thar is a good choice for you. However, if you are looking for a fuel-efficient vehicle with spacious rear seats, then the Thar may not be the best option for you.
It is also important to consider your budget and needs when deciding whether or not the Mahindra Thar is the right car for you. If you are on a tight budget, then the Thar is a good value for money. However, if you have a higher budget, then you may want to consider other options, such as the Force Gurkha or the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
Ultimately, the best way to decide whether or not the Mahindra Thar is the right car for you is to take it for a test drive. This will give you a chance to experience the Thar’s performance and features firsthand.