If you love adventure and want a car that can handle rough roads, beaches, and mountains with ease, the Mahindra Thar is the perfect choice. This iconic SUV is famous for its tough build, powerful engine, and go-anywhere capability. Whether you’re planning a weekend off-road trip or just want a rugged-looking car for daily drives, the Thar is designed to impress.
Design and Looks
The Mahindra Thar has a bold and muscular design that makes it stand out on the road. It has a boxy shape, a tall stance, and a removable soft-top or hardtop roof, giving it a classic jeep-like appearance. The front grille, round headlights, and chunky wheel arches add to its rugged charm. The Thar also comes with features like roof rails, side-mounted spare wheels, and high ground clearance, making it look ready for any adventure.
Engine and Performance
The Thar offers two powerful engine options. The first is a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that produces 150 bhp and 320 Nm of torque, giving it strong acceleration. The second is a 2.2-litre diesel engine that delivers 130 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, which is great for off-roading and long drives. Both engines come with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, making the Thar fun to drive on highways and tough terrains.
Off-Road Capability
The Thar is built for adventure. It comes with 4×4 (four-wheel drive), a mechanical locking differential, and a low-range gearbox for tackling steep hills, rocks, and muddy trails. The high ground clearance (226 mm) and water-wading capacity (650 mm) mean you can drive through rough patches and shallow rivers without worry. The strong suspension system ensures a smooth ride even on bumpy roads.
Interior and Comfort
Earlier, the Thar was known for being a bare-bones off-roader, but the latest version is much more comfortable. It now has a modern dashboard with a 7-inch touchscreen, steering-mounted controls, and fabric or leather seats. The cabin is more spacious than before, with enough legroom for tall passengers. However, since it’s still an off-road-focused car, the ride can be a bit stiff on city roads compared to regular SUVs.
Safety Features
Safety is important, and the Thar comes with features like dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and hill-hold control. The strong body structure and roll cage add extra protection in case of rough use or accidents.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The Thar is not the most fuel-efficient car, but it does decently for an off-road SUV. The petrol version gives around 10-12 kmpl, while the diesel version offers 12-15 kmpl, depending on driving conditions. If you drive mostly in cities, expect slightly lower numbers.
Price and Variants
The Mahindra Thar is priced between ₹11 lakh to ₹17 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on the engine, transmission, and variant. It comes in multiple trims like AX Opt, LX, and AX, with different features and customization options.
FAQs About Mahindra Thar
Is the Mahindra Thar good for daily use?
Yes, the new Thar is more comfortable than before, but it’s still best suited for those who love off-roading or want a rugged-looking SUV.
Can the Thar be used as a family car?
It has seating for four (in the 3-door version), but space is limited compared to regular SUVs. If you need more space, check out the 5-door Thar (if available).
Does the Thar have automatic transmission?
Yes, both petrol and diesel versions come with a 6-speed automatic option.
Final Verdict
The Mahindra Thar is not just a car—it’s a lifestyle vehicle for those who love adventure. With its powerful engines, strong off-road features, and bold design, it’s one of the best off-roaders in India. While it may not be the most practical car for city-only use, it’s a dream machine for anyone who enjoys exploring the unbeaten path.