Mahindra Thar Tyre Size, Price & Recommended Pressure: Detailed Guide
- 1Standard sizes are 245/75 R16 (AX) or 255/65 R18 (LX) for the new model
- 2Recommended pressure is 32-35 PSI for on-road use; lower for off-roading
- 3Prices range from ₹6,500 for R16 A/T tyres to ₹14,000+ for R18 A/T tyres
The Mahindra Thar is not just an SUV; it is a lifestyle statement, and its tyres are arguably the most critical component of that image. Unlike city cars, the Thar comes factory-fitted with All-Terrain (A/T) tyres, designed to handle slush and tarmac equally well.
A key insight for buyers is the significant Mahindra Thar tyre price difference between the AX and LX variants. The 18-inch tyres on the LX model look fantastic but are nearly double the cost of the 16-inch rubber found on the AX. Furthermore, while the Mahindra Thar tyre pressure is generally recommended at 32 PSI for city driving, seasoned off-roaders know that dropping this to 20-25 PSI is the secret to conquering sand dunes or deep mud. Just remember to inflate them back up before hitting the highway to avoid dangerous handling.
Mahindra Thar Tyre Size by Variant & Generation
The Thar's tyre size is a badge of honour. The new generation has standardised huge tyres even on the base model, ensuring it always looks butch.
2nd Generation: New Thar (2020 – Present)
The split is clear: the adventure-ready AX gets practical steel wheels, while the lifestyle LX gets massive alloys.
| Variant | Tyre Size (Front/Rear) | Wheel Type |
| AX Opt (Petrol/Diesel) | 245/75 R16 | Steel Wheels (White/Black) |
| LX (Petrol/Diesel) | 255/65 R18 | Alloy Wheels (Grey Finish) |
| Earth Edition | 255/65 R18 | Alloy Wheels (Unique Inserts) |
The second-gen Thar holds its value incredibly well, and finding a used Mahindra Thar with the original 18-inch Deep Silver alloys is a great find for lifestyle buyers.
1st Generation: Thar CRDe (2010 – 2020)
The classic Thar had a simpler setup but was famous for being easily upgradeable.
| Variant | Tyre Size (Front/Rear) | Wheel Type |
| CRDe 4x4 | 235/70 R16 | Steel / Alloy Wheels |
| DI 2WD / 4WD | 185/85 R16 | Steel Wheels |
Tyre Size Comparison: Mahindra Thar vs Off-Road Rivals
| Car Model | Tyre Size Range |
|---|---|
| Mahindra Thar | 245/75 R16 – 255/65 R18 |
| Maruti Jimny | 195/80 R15 |
| Mahindra Scorpio | 235/65 R17 – 255/60 R18 |
| Hyundai Creta | 205/65 R16 – 215/60 R17 |
The Thar is a beast with its massive 255mm tyres. If you want a more compact off-roader that uses lighter, narrower tyres for agility, check out the Maruti Jimny tyre guide. Alternatively, for a return to urban comfort, you can compare the Thar's footprint with the segment's bestseller in our Hyundai Creta tyre size article. Don't forget that off-roading requires specific adjustments to your car tyre air pressure by tyre size.
Understanding Tyre Size Format
For the LX variant's 255/65 R18, here is what the numbers mean:
- 255: The tyre is 255mm wide. This massive width provides the "floatation" needed on loose sand.
- 65: The sidewall height is 65% of the width. This tall profile acts as a cushion against rock impacts.
- R18: Fits an 18-inch rim.
Mahindra Thar Recommended Tyre Pressure (PSI)
Getting the Mahindra Thar tyre pressure right is a balancing act between bouncing around on city roads and dragging on the highway.
| Driving Condition | Front Pressure | Rear Pressure | Insight |
| City (Comfort) | 32 PSI | 32 PSI | Reduces the bouncy feel of the stiff suspension |
| Highway (Speed) | 35 PSI | 35 PSI | Improves stability and reduces rolling resistance |
| Off-Road (Mud/Sand) | 20-25 PSI | 20-25 PSI | Increases contact patch (Re-inflate immediately after!) |
Pro Tip: The Thar comes with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). If the warning light blinks during winter mornings, it is likely just a 2-3 PSI drop due to cold air. Drive for 2 km, and it usually normalises.
Mahindra Thar Tyre Price in India & Best Brands
The Mahindra Thar tyre price varies because you can choose between Highway Terrain (H/T) for smoothness or Mud Terrain (M/T) for aggression.
| Category | Price Range (Per Tyre) | Brand Examples |
| Value (16-inch) | ₹6,500 – ₹8,500 | CEAT Czar A/T, MRF Wanderer A/T |
| Stock Replacement (18-inch) | ₹12,000 – ₹14,000 | CEAT CrossDrive, MRF Wanderer |
| Premium Off-Road | ₹18,000 – ₹24,000+ | BF Goodrich KO2, Maxxis Bighorn |
Best Tyre Brands for Mahindra Thar
Your choice depends entirely on where you drive.
| Driving Style | Recommended Brand | Key Benefit |
| 50% City / 50% Off-Road | CEAT CrossDrive A/T | The stock tyre; decent all-rounder and affordable. |
| Serious Off-Roading | BF Goodrich T/A KO2 | The legendary choice. Indestructible sidewalls but noisy on highways. |
| Mostly City / Highway | Michelin LTX Force | Silent and comfortable, making the Thar feel more like a car. |
| Look & Style | Yokohama Geolandar A/T | Aggressive tread pattern that looks mean but drives smooth. |
Ultimately, whether you prioritise off-road grip or versatility, sticking to one of the best tyre brands in India ensures you are investing in proven safety standards and technology.
Upsizing Guide: Can You Upgrade Thar Tyres?
Thar owners love upsizing. The wheel arches are huge, allowing for plenty of rubber.
- Safe Upsize (18-inch): 265/60 R18 or 285/60 R18.
- Why do it? A wider 285mm tyre fills the gap perfectly and gives the Thar a beefier stance.
- Caution: Going beyond 285mm width may require wheel spacers, or the tyre will rub against the suspension arms during full turns.
Mahindra Thar Spare Tyre Details
The spare wheel is a key aesthetic feature of the Thar, mounted on the rear tailgate.
- Size: It is always a full-size tyre matching the other four (e.g., 255/65 R18 for LX).
- The "Steel" Catch: In recent updates (post-2023), Mahindra has started providing a steel spare wheel even on the top-end LX variants (which have alloys on the running wheels). It is covered by a plastic cover to hide the difference.
- Removal: You will need the wheel spanner to remove the locking nut and the plastic cover before you can access the bolts.
How to Know When to Replace Your Tyres?
- Off-Road Cuts: Inspect sidewalls after every trail drive. Sharp rocks can cause deep cuts that are invisible from a distance.
- Hardening: If you don't drive much, the rubber might harden before the tread wears out. If the tyre chips easily, replace it.
- The 40,000 km Mark: A/T tyres often become very noisy after 40,000 km due to uneven block wear. This is a good time to change them for a quieter ride.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar is a beast that relies heavily on its footwear. Sticking to the 255/65 R18 size keeps the speedometer accurate and the ride manageable. For the best mix of looks and performance, the Yokohama Geolandar or the stock CEAT CrossDrive are excellent choices. Keep the pressure at 32 PSI to save your back from the bumpy ride!
Frequently Asked Questions
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