Mahindra Thar: Mahindra is making headlines once again, but this time it’s the turn of its tough off-roader. Thar, now the second highest-selling model after Scorpio, keeps cruising in the Indian SUV segment. Sales are through the roof, and the company is capitalizing on the momentum by preparing to bring in a new version of its 3-door variant—caught on test drives, leaving enthusiasts with much to guess about.
Thar Popularity
Formerly headed by the Bolero, Mahindra’s SUV division has witnessed Thar move into the second position behind the behemoth Scorpio. In the month of May itself, the Thar achieved sales of 10,389 units, reflecting consistent growth. This leap greatly owes its success to the release of the 5-door Thar Roxx. With the 3-door variant in test stages now, Mahindra appears poised to add more to Thar’s cult following.
New Facelift Likely in the Works
Although Mahindra has yet to make any official announcement, the test car snapped in camouflage is indicating a near future facelift. Based on visual observations, the new model could take on a number of cues from the Thar Roxx, signaling minor exterior updates and upgraded interior features.
Changes on the Exterior Front
The next Thar might get some cosmetic refinements to make the design look newer. Hints are of restyled bumpers, a retouched front grille, and improved lighting technology. The shape remains the same, but these incremental changes might refine its looks.
Improved Cabin and Features
Within the cabin, Mahindra could bring sophisticated trims and upgraded materials, taking inspiration from the Thar Roxx. Hardware additions, new infotainment technologies, and upgraded software could transform the driving experience. A new infotainment system and potentially fresh interface elements are bound to be added, though not officially announced yet.
Prospective Feature Additions
Transferred from Thar Roxx, a number of high-end features could make it into the facelift variant. These could be a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, AdrenoX technology, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Harman Kardon sound system, and even Level 2 ADAS. Other features such as automatic climate control, wireless charging, electronic parking brake with auto-hold, panoramic sunroof, 6 airbags, and 360-degree camera could make it a far more premium offering.
Powertrain Choices
Mechanically, the new Thar facelift is not anticipated to undergo significant changes. The engine choices are expected to stay the same—a 1.5L turbo-diesel (117 bhp/300 Nm), a 2.0L turbo-petrol (150 bhp/320 Nm), and a 2.2L diesel (130 bhp/300 Nm). Both 2WD and 4WD trims will carry on with six-speed manual and torque converter automatic transmission configurations.
Price Positioning
Considering the potential addition of features, the facelifted Thar is likely to have a marginally higher price than the existing 3-door model. Mahindra can use this facelift to close the gap between the base model and the slightly more upscale Roxx model.