The Mahindra Thar has become one of India’s most iconic off-road SUVs, symbolizing ruggedness, adventure, and an unbeatable spirit of exploration. Whether navigating urban roads or tackling challenging off-road terrains, the Thar stands as a testament to Mahindra’s rich history in the automotive world. From its design to performance, it combines modern technology with traditional off-roading capabilities.
The Origins of Mahindra Thar
The journey of the Mahindra Thar began in 1947, the same year that Mahindra & Mahindra was founded. The company initially focused on producing military vehicles and later civilian vehicles. The original Mahindra Jeep was designed in collaboration with Willys, an American automaker, which was known for making rugged military vehicles during World War II. The Jeep quickly became popular in India due to its off-road capabilities, durability, and versatility.
In the early 2000s, Mahindra decided to resurrect the legacy of the Jeep with the launch of the Mahindra Thar in 2010. The first model was aimed at the off-road enthusiast market and designed to compete with SUVs like the Maruti Suzuki Gypsy and the Tata Safari. The Thar was developed with a strong emphasis on off-roading capabilities, making it a favorite for adventure enthusiasts.
Evolution of the Mahindra Thar: From 2010 to 2020
The first-generation Mahindra Thar, launched in 2010, was essentially an upgraded version of the classic Mahindra Jeep. With its boxy design, high ground clearance, and simple interior, it offered an authentic off-roading experience. Powered by a 2.5-liter CRDe diesel engine, the vehicle was built to endure the harshest terrains, from steep inclines to rocky paths.
However, the first-generation Thar was criticized for its lack of modern features and uncomfortable ride quality. It was a highly capable off-roader but lacked the refinement expected from an everyday vehicle. Mahindra took these concerns seriously, and with the second-generation Thar, they made major improvements.
In 2020, Mahindra launched the all-new Thar, which represented a huge leap forward in terms of design, features, and technology. It retained the rugged off-road DNA of its predecessor but added modern touches to appeal to a broader audience. With the second generation, Mahindra took great care to balance performance and comfort, making it a more versatile vehicle for daily use.
Key Features and Design of the New Mahindra Thar (2020 onwards)
The second-generation Mahindra Thar is a complete redesign that merges the classic off-road elements with contemporary features. Here are some of the key aspects that make the new Thar stand out:
1. Bold and Aggressive Design
The Mahindra Thar’s design is one of its most striking features. It has retained the boxy silhouette, aggressive front grille, and round headlamps that make it instantly recognizable. The high ground clearance, wide stance, and flared wheel arches enhance its road presence, making it impossible to miss on the streets or off the beaten path.
The latest model is offered in both soft-top and hard-top variants, giving buyers the option to choose between a more traditional, open-air experience or a more secure and comfortable closed cabin.
2. Modern Interiors
One of the major upgrades in the new Thar is its interior. While the original Thar had a very utilitarian cabin, the new model comes with a more refined and user-friendly layout. The cabin features a modern dashboard, an all-digital instrument cluster, and a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior materials are more premium, and the seating is far more comfortable, making long drives a much more pleasant experience.
3. Off-Road Capabilities
The Mahindra Thar continues to offer exceptional off-road capabilities. It comes with a 4×4 drivetrain, locking differentials, and a transfer case that enables the driver to switch between high and low-range gearing for tackling challenging terrains. The vehicle’s robust chassis, long suspension travel, and high ground clearance make it a great choice for off-road enthusiasts who love to venture into difficult trails, rocks, or sand dunes.
The new Thar is equipped with modern safety features like front airbags, ABS with EBD, and hill hold control, ensuring that it’s not only tough but also safe. The introduction of a proper ladder-frame chassis adds to the vehicle’s stability, both on and off-road.
4. Engine Options and Performance
The 2020 Mahindra Thar offers two engine options. The first is a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine that produces 150 bhp and 320 Nm of torque, while the second is a 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine that generates 130 bhp and 320 Nm of torque. These engines are mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, giving drivers the flexibility to choose the driving experience they prefer.
Both engine options are paired with a 4×4 system and a mechanical locking differential, making the Thar an incredibly capable off-road vehicle. Whether it’s climbing steep inclines or fording through water, the Thar excels in the most demanding conditions.
5. Customization and Variants
The new Mahindra Thar is offered in multiple variants, each with different features to suit different buyers. The entry-level variants are designed for off-road purists who seek a bare-bones, rugged experience, while the higher variants are packed with more premium features and equipment, catering to those who want a blend of adventure and comfort.
Mahindra also offers various customization options, allowing owners to personalize their Thars with accessories like winches, off-road tires, and roof racks. This makes the Thar even more versatile, whether you’re looking for a family vehicle or a dedicated off-roader.
Mahindra Thar: Performance on the Road and Trails
The Thar’s performance, both on-road and off-road, is what truly sets it apart from other SUVs in its segment. On the road, the Thar offers a reasonably comfortable ride, thanks to its improved suspension setup. The ride quality has been greatly enhanced compared to the previous generation, but it still feels firm and rugged, as expected from a vehicle built for off-roading.
Off the road, however, the Thar is in its element. Its 4×4 drivetrain and high ground clearance ensure that it can tackle just about any terrain, from sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains. The 4WD system, along with the locking differentials, ensures that the Thar can maintain traction even in the most slippery conditions. Whether you’re tackling rocks, mud, or water crossings, the Thar will get you through it all without breaking a sweat.
The Mahindra Thar’s Market Impact
The Mahindra Thar has had a significant impact on the Indian automotive market. It has carved out a unique niche, blending the rugged appeal of traditional off-roaders with modern-day comforts and features. With its strong performance, iconic design, and a growing fanbase, the Thar has become a status symbol among adventure enthusiasts and off-road lovers in India.
It’s also been popular in markets outside of India. In places like South Africa, the Thar has found a loyal following, further solidifying its global appeal. The Thar is now viewed as a gateway for many young people to explore the world of off-roading, thanks to its relatively affordable price compared to other premium 4×4 vehicles.
Mahindra Thar Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Turbo Petrol & 2.2L mHawk Diesel |
| Power (Petrol) | 150 bhp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power (Diesel) | 130 bhp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque (Petrol) | 320 Nm @ 1500–3000 rpm |
| Torque (Diesel) | 320 Nm @ 1500–2800 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual & 6-Speed Automatic |
| Drive Type | 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) |
| Ground Clearance | 226 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm |
| Length | 3985 mm |
| Width | 1820 mm |
| Height | 1844 mm (Soft-top), 1843 mm (Hard-top) |
| Boot Space | 450 L (with rear seats up) |
| Seating Capacity | 4 (2-Door) / 5 (4-Door) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 Liters |
| Suspension (Front) | Independent Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-Link Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front) | Disc Brakes |
| Brakes (Rear) | Disc Brakes |
| Tyres | 255/65 R17 |
| Infotainment System | 7-inch Touchscreen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay |
| Airbags | Dual Front Airbags |
| ABS with EBD | Yes |
| Hill Hold Control | Yes |
| Water Wading Depth | 650 mm |
| Towing Capacity | 750 kg (with trailer) |
| Variants Available | AX (Adventure), LX (Luxury) |
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar is more than just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of adventure and exploration. Its rugged off-road capabilities, combined with modern features and design, make it an ideal choice for those who seek both thrill and practicality. As Mahindra continues to refine the Thar, we can expect it to evolve further with new technologies, improved safety features, and better fuel efficiency.
The Thar’s legacy is one of endurance and adventure, and it will continue to inspire those who want to push the boundaries of exploration, whether it’s navigating city streets or heading into the wilderness. In the end, the Mahindra Thar is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey.