Mahindra Thar

The Mahindra Thar comes with a 1.5-litre turbo diesel, 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, and a 2.2-litre diesel engine. Of these, the entry-level Mahindra Thar RWD uses the 1.5-litre diesel engine. Transmission choices include 6-speed manual and automatic units. The Mahindra Thar 4x4 variants get a proper transfer case and low-range gearbox.

City Driving

Driving the Thar car in city traffic feels easier than older generations as the steering feels lighter. The Thar RWD variants, especially the Mahindra Thar 4x2 automatic, feel more comfortable in daily urban use.

The tall seating position provides excellent road visibility. However, the wide turning radius can require some effort in tight spaces. The Thar SUV can handle daily commutes reasonably well. Buyers who mainly drive in cities often choose the Mahindra Thar RWD price variants as they offer the same road presence without the extra cost of 4x4 hardware.

Highway Driving

On highways, the Mahindra Thar feels stable and confident. The strong diesel engine offers good torque, which helps in effortless overtakes. The petrol engine feels smoother and more refined at higher speeds.

At cruising speeds of 100-110 km/h, the Thar remains stable thanks to its strong ladder-frame chassis. The suspension absorbs highway undulations well, though sharp bumps can still be felt inside the cabin.

Long drives feel comfortable due to the upright seating position and supportive seats. Also, the Thar's off-road DNA still allows it to handle rough roads and broken highways better than many monocoque SUVs.

The Mahindra Thar is offered in multiple variants that cater to different types of buyers. Some variants focus on affordability and daily usability, while others highlight the strong off-road capabilities that the Thar Jeep is known for.

AX 

This variant offers the most accessible entry point into Thar ownership. The Mahindra Thar 4x2 uses a smaller diesel engine that prioritises efficiency and affordability. The Thar RWD price makes it attractive for buyers who want the styling and road presence of the Thar SUV but do not necessarily require 4x4 capability. It still offers the rugged look and commanding driving position that define the Thar vehicle.

LX  

The LX series is what most enthusiasts choose. The Mahindra Thar 4x4 comes with proper off-road hardware, including a transfer case and low-range gearing. The Mahindra Thar price 4x4 is higher than the RWD versions, but it provides the full Thar off-road experience. Buyers who enjoy adventure trips and trail driving usually prefer this configuration. 

The petrol engine feels smoother and more responsive, especially on highways. The diesel engine, on the other hand, delivers strong torque and slightly better fuel efficiency. Many buyers who regularly drive off-road prefer the diesel-powered 4x4 Thar.

With multiple options available, the new Thar price range allows buyers to choose the model that suits their driving needs and budget.

While the fuel efficiency of the Mahindra Thar mostly depends on the engine and drivetrain, a lot even depends on the usage conditions. For instance, the Mahindra Thar mileage is bound to take a hit when off-roading. Also, it may be noted here that as this ladder-frame SUV focused on off-road capability, fuel efficiency has never been its primary focus. 

Still, between the variants on offer, the Mahindra Thar 4x2 1.5-litre diesel variant can offer up to 15 kmpl in mixed driving conditions. However, the petrol-powered model, which features a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged unit, generally offers single-digit fuel economy in the city. Things are slightly better with the 2.2-litre diesel engine variant. The fuel efficiency gets slightly better on the highways, where the vehicle is usually driven at steady speeds. 

One of the reasons for the low mileage of the Mahindra Thar is its heavy weight owing to drivetrain components. However, buyers prioritising capability over efficiency shouldn’t mind the lower figures. Also, as is the case with any vehicle, the driving style plays a key role in the fuel consumption. Hard acceleration or off-road usage can reduce the mileage by a significant margin. Buyers who plan to use the Thar car mostly for daily city use, the Mahindra Thar RWD version offers a good mix of practicality and mileage while still offering a robust personality.  

The Mahindra Thar carries forward the classic Jeep-inspired styling that has defined the vehicle for decades. The design is bold, upright and instantly recognisable on the road. The front profile features a wide grille with vertical slats and round headlamps. The design looks rugged and purposeful. The strong bumper and squared wheel arches further enhance the off-road identity of the Thar Jeep.

From the side, the Thar SUV looks muscular and compact. The short wheelbase, large tyres and high ground clearance highlight its off-road-ready nature. The Mahindra Thar 4 by 4 variants also come with distinctive badging that emphasises their capability.

One of the most interesting aspects of the new Mahindra Thar is the removable roof options. Buyers can choose between a hard top, soft top and convertible-style configuration. This lends the Thar a unique distinct personality when compared to conventional SUVs in this price bracket. The rear design stays pretty simple, even as the tailgate-mounted spare wheel adds some ruggedness to the overall look. All in all, the Thar car offers a classic charm with many modern touches, which, coupled with the large dimensions, helps it with a strong road presence. 

Inside the cabin, the Mahindra Thar feels far more modern than its earlier generations. While the design still focuses on durability and practicality, there are several features that improve everyday comfort.

The dashboard has a rugged design with grab handles and sturdy materials. A touchscreen infotainment system sits in the centre, offering smartphone connectivity and navigation. This makes the Thar vehicle feel more suitable for daily driving.

The seating position is tall and commanding. Drivers get a clear view of the road ahead, which is useful both in city traffic and while exploring rough terrain. The seats feel supportive during long journeys as well.

Rear seat space is adequate for two adults. However, the Thar SUV still prioritises adventure over luxury. Entry and exit to the rear seats can require some effort because of the three-door layout.

Even with these compromises, the new Thar car offers a much better interior experience than previous generations. Buyers now get the rugged charm of the Thar Jeep along with the basic convenience features expected from a modern SUV.

Safety has improved significantly in the new Mahindra Thar. The vehicle comes with multiple features designed to provide better protection during both city driving and off-road adventures.

The Thar SUV includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control and Hill Hold Assist. These systems help maintain stability and control even on slippery surfaces. Rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera improve convenience during parking. The strong ladder-frame chassis also adds to the structural strength of the vehicle.

The Mahindra Thar has also performed well in global crash safety tests. Its strong build quality and stable handling characteristics help inspire confidence behind the wheel. For off-road enthusiasts, features such as mechanical locking differentials and low-range gearing provide better control while tackling challenging terrain. These systems make the Mahindra Thar 4x4 one of the most capable off-road vehicles available in the Indian market.

Overall, the Thar vehicle manages to combine rugged durability with modern safety features.

The Mahindra Thar occupies a unique position in the Indian SUV market. While several SUVs offer good road presence, very few match the dedicated off-road capability of the Thar. Some of the closest alternatives include the Force Gurkha and Maruti Suzuki Jimny.

• Force Gurkha: The Gurkha is another serious off-road vehicle. It offers strong mechanical hardware and a durable design. However, the Mahindra Thar usually feels more refined and modern in everyday use.

   

• Maruti Suzuki Jimny: While it’s even more capable off the road, its smaller dimensions don’t let it have the road presence of a Thar. Also, there’s no diesel engine or an affordable 4x2 option on offer. 

   

Because of this, the Thar Jeep remains a unique option for buyers who want an adventurous lifestyle vehicle rather than a traditional city SUV. The Mahindra Thar price in India may appear higher than some compact SUVs, but its capability and strong brand image justify the positioning.

Even though the Mahindra Thar has a lot going for it, there are certain compromises buyers should consider before making a decision.

Clearly, the Mahindra Thar isn’t for a typical SUV buyer. It is, instead, meant for those looking for a rugged option that suits their adventure lifestyle. So, if you often need to drive on rough terrains or regularly drive through water-logged paths, the Mahindra Thar 4x4 variants can prove to be a great choice. The ruggedness, powerful engines and tough construction make the Thar among the best off-road vehicles on sale in the mainstream car market. 

Meanwhile, the Mahindra Thar RWD variants ensure the SUV stays accessible to those on a budget. The Thar RWD price lets buyers enjoy the iconic design and a commanding driving experience without opting for the full off-road capability. True, the Thar does have a few compromises. The rear seat access isn’t easy. Even the boot space is pretty low. Moreover, it’s nowhere as frugal as the conventional SUVs. However, none of these is a deal-breaker for those looking for a rugged off-roader that prioritises go-anywhere capability over practicality. Hence, car buyers who want a unique lifestyle SUV with a strong road presence can choose the Mahindra Thar with their eyes closed. 

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