The Mahindra Thar isn’t just an SUV; it’s a symbol of untamed adventure. For decades, it has dominated the Indian off-road landscape, renowned for its capability, ruggedness, and go-anywhere spirit. The latest iteration, launched in 2020, retains the Thar’s legendary DNA while incorporating modern creature comforts and enhanced performance. With an expected starting price of ₹13.49 lakh (ex-showroom), it caters to adventure seekers, off-road enthusiasts, and those who crave a vehicle that can conquer any terrain without compromising on style.
A Design that Embraces Brutality
The Thar sheds any pretense of urban sophistication, embracing a design that prioritizes function over form. The upright stance, boxy silhouette, and muscular wheel arches communicate raw power and capability. The signature grille with vertical slats and round headlamps with LED DRLs (on higher variants) add a touch of modern flair while retaining the classic Thar persona. Available in a variety of bold colors with a matte finish (on higher variants), the Thar lets adventure seekers express their desire to explore the unbeaten path.
Uncompromising Off-Road Capability
The Thar’s true strength lies in its ability to conquer any terrain you throw at it. A robust ladder-frame chassis forms the foundation for its off-road prowess. A shift-on-the-fly 4WD system with a low-range gearbox and a locking differential allows you to tackle steep inclines, navigate through mud, and crawl over rocks with unmatched confidence. High ground clearance and excellent approach, departure, and breakover angles further enhance its off-road capability.
Modern Enhancements for Everyday Usability
While prioritizing off-road capability, the Thar doesn’t completely neglect creature comforts. The cabin, though still utilitarian, offers a surprising amount of space for five occupants. The use of high-quality materials and a waterproof design ensures it can withstand the rigors of off-road adventures. Modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control (on higher variants), and power windows (on higher variants) enhance everyday usability.
Powertrain Options for Every Adventure
The Thar offers two engine options to suit different needs: a proven 2.2L diesel engine churning out 130 PS and 320 Nm of torque, and a powerful 2.0L turbocharged petrol engine delivering 150 PS and 300 Nm of torque. Both engines are mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, allowing for precise control over challenging terrain. The diesel engine excels in low-end grunt, ideal for off-road maneuvers, while the petrol engine offers a more spirited performance for highway cruising.
Safety Features for Peace of Mind
Mahindra prioritizes safety in all its offerings, and the Thar is no exception. It boasts a robust build quality and a suite of safety features, including dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill hold assist. These features provide peace of mind and enhanced protection for you and your passengers on both paved and unpaved roads.
Beyond the Off-Road Playground
While the Thar thrives off the beaten path, it can also handle city commutes with ease. Its powerful engine and well-tuned suspension ensure a comfortable ride even on uneven roads. The increased cabin space and modern features make it a more practical choice for everyday use compared to previous iterations. However, its large size and off-road focus might not be ideal for navigating tight city streets and congested parking spaces.
A Legacy of Adventure Continues
The Mahindra Thar is more than just an SUV; it’s a legacy passed down to a new generation of adventure seekers. It empowers you to explore hidden trails, conquer challenging terrains, and create unforgettable memories. With its legendary off-road capability, rugged design, modern enhancements for everyday use, and focus on safety, the Thar caters to a niche audience of adventure enthusiasts who prioritize capability over creature comforts. With a competitive expected starting price, it offers excellent value for the off-road prowess and sense of adventure it delivers. So, if you’re looking for an SUV that lets you unleash your inner explorer and conquer any terrain that comes your way, then the Mahindra Thar is definitely worth considering.
