Mahindra Thar OG

The Thar OG continues with three turbocharged engines, but the larger petrol and diesel units now produce more torque than the earlier specification. The 1.5-litre D117 diesel produces 87.2 kW and 300 Nm, while the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel makes 111.9 kW and 330 Nm. The 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol develops 119 kW and 330 Nm.

The 1.5-litre diesel is paired with a six-speed manual and RWD. The larger engines are available with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, with RWD and 4WD configurations depending on the variant.

2.0-litre Turbo-Petrol

The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol is the performance-focused engine in the Thar OG range. Its 330 Nm of torque gives it a stronger reserve for acceleration and highway overtaking, while the automatic gearbox provides a more relaxed experience in traffic.

The engine is also available with 4WD, allowing buyers to combine stronger road performance with the Thar OG's off-road hardware.

1.5-litre Diesel

The 1.5-litre D117 diesel is the entry point into the range. It produces 87.2 kW and 300 Nm and is offered exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox and RWD.

This configuration is aimed at buyers who want the Thar OG's styling, driving position and lifestyle appeal but do not need four-wheel drive. The absence of 4WD also makes it the simpler configuration for predominantly paved-road use.

2.2-litre Diesel

The 2.2-litre mHawk diesel produces 111.9 kW and 330 Nm and can be paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox. Depending on the variant, it is available with RWD or 4WD.

With its higher torque output and availability with low-range 4WD hardware, it is the diesel engine most closely aligned with buyers who expect to use the Thar OG for demanding off-road driving.

Which Powertrain Should You Choose?

• 1.5L Diesel RWD Manual: Suitable if most driving will be in the city and on highways and 4WD is not required.
• 2.0L Turbo-Petrol: Suits buyers who prioritise stronger acceleration and want the option of RWD or 4WD.
• 2.2L Diesel: Suits buyers who want higher torque and the option of 4WD, particularly for regular off-road use.

The biggest difference between the latest Thar OG and the earlier model is not just the increase in engine output. Mahindra has also changed the steering and suspension hardware, which directly affects how the SUV behaves at low and high speeds.

The move to electric power steering should make parking and U-turns less demanding, while the revised rear suspension, Watts Link and DAVINCI damping are aimed at improving ride quality and stability. The higher-stiffness platform also forms part of the effort to make the SUV more controlled on paved roads.

City Driving

The Thar OG remains taller and more upright than a typical city SUV, but the electric power steering should make low-speed manoeuvres easier than before. This is particularly relevant when parking, making U-turns or negotiating tight streets.

The revised suspension is another important update for urban use. The PENTALINK rear suspension, Watts Link and DAVINCI damping are intended to improve the way the SUV deals with uneven surfaces, reducing some of the compromises traditionally associated with ladder-frame off-roaders.

The compact three-door body remains useful in narrow spaces, although the wide-looking stance and large doors can still require care in tight parking areas. The high seating position provides a good view over surrounding traffic.

Highway Driving

The additional torque from the larger petrol and diesel engines should make highway acceleration more effortless. The 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel both produce 330 Nm, giving the Thar OG stronger torque reserves for overtaking than the previous specifications.

The chassis changes are equally relevant. The stiffer platform, revised rear suspension and damping system are designed to improve straight-line stability and body control, while electric power steering should reduce the effort required during long drives.

The Thar OG remains a boxy, ladder-frame SUV, so wind noise and its upright driving position remain part of the experience. However, the latest mechanical changes are aimed at making it more composed and less demanding on highways than the previous-generation setup.

Off-Road Performance

The 4WD versions retain the mechanical ingredients expected of a serious off-roader, including low-range gearing. The latest model also adds an electronic locking differential and Mud, Sand and Snow terrain modes.

These systems are intended to help the Thar OG maintain traction when surfaces become loose or uneven. The 4WD hardware therefore remains one of the main reasons to choose the Thar OG over a conventional crossover.

The Mahindra Thar OG is offered in AXT, LXT and ZXT trims. The basic mechanical character remains consistent, but equipment levels increase as you move up the range.

AXT

The AXT is the entry-level trim and concentrates on the core Thar OG package. It gets R18 steel wheels, electric power steering, push-button start, dual airbags, ESP with rollover mitigation, a roll cage and tubular side steps.

It is aimed at buyers who are primarily interested in the three-door Thar OG format and its underlying mechanical package rather than a long equipment list.

LXT

The LXT adds equipment that makes the Thar OG easier to use as an everyday vehicle. It gets R18 alloy wheels, a 26.03-cm HD touchscreen, colour MID, electrically adjustable ORVMs, embossed fabric seats, cruise control, rear wiper/washer, tyre-direction monitoring and smartphone connectivity through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Adventure Statistics Gen II is also included, while 4WD versions get a washable floor with drain plugs.

ZXT

The new top-of-the-line ZXT trim features R19 alloy wheels, LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs, Ice Cube style LED fog lamps with cornering function, wireless smartphone charging, all four disc brakes, TPMS, a rear-view camera, 6 airbags (includes 4 HPTS airbags), frequency-dependent damping and front parking sensors.

Which Thar Variant Should You Buy?

• AXT: Suitable if the priority is entering the Thar OG range at a lower price and getting the basic SUV package.
• LXT RWD: Makes sense for predominantly urban and highway use when 4WD is not required.
• LXT 4WD: Suits buyers who intend to use the Thar OG on trails and rough terrain.
• ZXT: Intended for buyers who want the most extensive equipment, including additional lighting, safety and convenience features.

Mahindra's supplied launch information for the Thar OG does not provide an ARAI mileage figure. It is therefore better not to carry forward the earlier Thar's mileage figures and present them as though they apply to the updated model.

The 1.5-litre diesel RWD is likely to be the road-focused choice for buyers concerned about fuel consumption, while the larger engines prioritise performance and broader drivetrain capability. Actual fuel consumption will vary considerably with traffic, speed, transmission, drivetrain, tyre choice and off-road use.

The Thar OG's boxy body, ladder-frame construction and available 4WD hardware also mean fuel efficiency is not its primary design objective.

The Thar OG retains the familiar three-door, upright silhouette, but the latest version gets a redesigned front and rear treatment. The changes modernise the SUV without moving it away from its established off-road identity.

Front

The front receives a new grille, circular LED headlamps and C-shaped DRLs. Higher ZXT variants also get LED fog lamps with a cornering function.

The redesigned bumper gives the front end a broader appearance while retaining the upright proportions associated with the Thar family.

Side

The short wheelbase, flared wheel arches and upright body continue to give the Thar OG its distinctive off-road stance. R18 wheels are available lower in the range, while the ZXT gets R19 alloy wheels.

The side-step design also varies by trim, with the equipment becoming more substantial on higher variants.

Rear

The tailgate-mounted spare wheel remains an important part of the Thar OG's visual identity. The rear receives new LED tail lamps and redesigned bumper treatment.

The overall shape remains recognisable as a three-door Thar, which helps distinguish the OG from the larger five-door Thar Roxx.

The Thar OG's cabin remains focused on durability and outdoor use rather than trying to replicate the interior of a conventional premium SUV. However, the latest equipment additions make it more usable for everyday driving.

Front Seats

The front seats use a high, upright driving position that gives the driver a clear view of the road. Higher variants add more adjustment and upgraded upholstery.

The overall cabin layout remains functional, with physical usability taking priority over a highly elaborate dashboard design.

Rear Seats

The Thar OG is strictly a four-seater. The second row has two individual forward-facing seats, and passengers access them through the front doors.

A second-row armrest with cupholder adds a useful touch for rear occupants, but the three-door layout remains less convenient than a five-door SUV for frequent passenger use.

Technology & Convenience

LXT and ZXT variants get a 26.03-cm HD touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Thar OG also features Adventure Statistics Gen II, which provides information useful when driving away from paved roads.

The system can display data such as pitch, roll, steering angle, altitude and compass information. Higher variants also add features such as wireless charging, while the overall equipment level rises significantly compared with the entry trim.

Boot Space & Storage

The three-door layout limits luggage practicality when all four seats are occupied. Folding the rear seats creates additional cargo space and makes the SUV more useful for camping equipment, recovery gear and larger luggage.

There are also door pockets, a lockable glovebox and other smaller storage areas, but buyers who regularly carry passengers and luggage will find a five-door SUV more convenient.

The Thar OG gets a revised safety package, with equipment varying by trim. Higher ZXT versions get six airbags, including four HPTS airbags, along with TPMS, a rear camera, front parking sensors and front and rear disc brakes.

The supplied launch material does not provide a new Global NCAP crash-test rating for the Thar OG. The previous Thar's crash-test result should therefore not be presented as a rating for the new model.

Passive Safety

The Thar OG incorporates a roll cage and seatbelt-based occupant protection, while higher ZXT variants add six airbags, including four HPTS airbags.

The four-seat layout also means each occupant has a dedicated seating position rather than a middle rear passenger.

Active Safety

ESP with rollover mitigation is part of the safety package, while higher variants add equipment such as TPMS, rear-view camera and front parking sensors.

The 4WD versions also get an electronic locking differential and terrain modes. These are primarily traction and off-road systems rather than substitutes for conventional safety equipment.

Safety equipment increases with the trim level. The exact combination also depends on whether the vehicle is specified with RWD or 4WD.

The supplied launch information does not establish a new crash-test score for the Thar OG, so no specific NCAP rating should be attributed to it at present.

The Thar OG occupies a relatively specific space in the Indian SUV market. It combines a three-door body with a ladder-frame platform, turbocharged engines and available 4WD hardware.

The Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha are relevant alternatives for buyers focused on off-road ability, while the five-door Thar Roxx addresses buyers who like the Thar concept but require greater practicality.

Mahindra Thar vs Force Gurkha

The Force Gurkha is aimed heavily at off-road use and uses hardware designed for difficult terrain. The Thar OG takes a broader approach, combining its 4WD capability with more road-focused powertrain choices and automatic transmission availability.

For buyers who will spend significant time on paved roads as well as occasional trails, the Thar OG offers a different balance between everyday usability and off-road equipment.

Mahindra Thar vs Thar Roxx

The Thar Roxx uses a five-door body and provides more space for passengers and luggage. It is therefore more suitable when the SUV has to perform regular family duties.

The Thar OG retains the shorter three-door format. Its appeal lies in the more compact body and traditional lifestyle-off-roader character, particularly for buyers who do not need frequent rear-seat access.

Mahindra Thar vs Maruti Suzuki Jimny

The Jimny uses a smaller, lighter package and a five-door body. Its compact dimensions can be useful in urban environments as well as on narrow trails.

The Thar OG uses larger turbocharged engines, including the 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel, and offers substantially more torque from these powertrains. The choice therefore depends on whether compactness and five-door practicality or stronger engine performance and the Thar OG format are more important.

Which One Should You Consider?

• Mahindra Thar OG: For buyers who specifically want a three-door lifestyle SUV with available 4WD and strong turbocharged engines.
• Force Gurkha: For buyers whose usage is heavily focused on demanding off-road terrain.
• Mahindra Thar Roxx: For buyers who want the Thar family identity but need five doors, more cabin space and greater luggage practicality.
• Maruti Suzuki Jimny: For buyers who prefer a smaller 4x4 with a five-door layout and compact dimensions.

The latest Thar OG addresses several of the previous model's everyday compromises, particularly around steering, suspension and chassis development. However, its three-door layout and four-seat configuration continue to limit practicality compared with conventional family SUVs.

The Thar OG makes sense for buyers who specifically want the combination of a three-door body, rugged SUV character and genuine off-road capability. It is not designed to maximise rear-seat access, luggage space or urban practicality.

The latest updates do, however, make the package more rounded. Electric power steering should reduce the effort required during parking and tight manoeuvres, while the revised rear suspension, Watts Link and DAVINCI damping are intended to improve ride comfort and stability.

The stronger 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines also increase the available torque to 330 Nm. That should be useful during highway acceleration and overtaking, while the revised chassis is intended to make the SUV more composed during longer road journeys.

For off-road use, the 4WD variants retain low-range capability and add an electronic locking differential along with Mud, Sand and Snow terrain modes. These features make the Thar OG's mechanical package substantially more relevant beyond paved roads.

For buyers who mainly want an everyday family SUV, the three-door layout and four-seat cabin remain important considerations. The Thar Roxx is more practical when rear access, passenger space and luggage capacity are priorities.

The Thar OG therefore works best when its distinctive three-door format and off-road capability are part of the reason for buying it, rather than simply being features that are rarely used.