Mahindra Thar – The Beast of Indian Roads Reimagined

When you think of off-road power, rugged design, and a car that makes heads turn on every street, Mahindra Thar is one name that instantly comes to mind. It’s more than just a vehicle — it’s a lifestyle, an emotion, and for many, a dream on four wheels.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the new-generation Mahindra Thar, exploring everything from its muscular design and performance to features, comfort, and why it continues to be the king of adventure in India.

🚘 A Quick Intro – What Is the Mahindra Thar?

The Mahindra Thar is a compact SUV that has become an icon among Indian car enthusiasts. Originally launched in 2010, it quickly gained a cult following among off-road lovers. But it was the new-gen Thar launched in October 2020 that completely changed the game.

With modern design, updated features, and improved comfort, the Thar today is not just an off-roader — it’s an everyday vehicle that’s bold, practical, and fun to drive.

🛠️ Design – Rugged, Retro & Ready for the Wild

The Thar’s design is unmistakable. It still carries that classic Jeep-inspired boxy shape, but with a lot of modern touches:

Big fenders and muscular wheel arches give it a dominating presence.
The vertical slatted grille, round headlamps, and LED DRLs combine vintage charm with modern tech.
Available in both hard-top and convertible-top versions — so you can switch from city slicker to wild adventurer in minutes.
The 18-inch alloy wheels and high ground clearance (226mm) scream, “Let’s go off-road!”

Color Options: You get bold shades like Red Rage, Napoli Black, Aquamarine, Rocky Beige, Galaxy Grey, and Everest White.

💺 Interior – Simple, Tough, and Now Tech-Savvy

Step inside the new Mahindra Thar and you’ll see how much it has evolved. It’s not a luxury lounge, but it’s definitely not the bare-bones Thar of the past.

Key Interior Highlights:

Water-resistant interiors – Perfect for beach trips or muddy trails.
7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Roof-mounted speakers for a better sound experience (even with the top off!).
Power windows, cruise control, keyless entry, and other modern touches.
Available in both 2-door (current model) and expected soon – 5-door variant.

While space in the second row is limited, it’s still usable for small families or weekend getaways.

⚙️ Engine & Performance – Born to Conquer

You get two engine options in the current Thar:

🟦 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol Engine:

Power: 150 bhp
Torque: 320 Nm
Available with 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic

🟩 2.2L mHawk Diesel Engine:

Power: 130 bhp
Torque: 300 Nm
Also available in both manual and automatic options

Drive Modes:

4×4 with low-range transfer case
Mechanical locking differential
Brake locking differential

Whether it’s slushy mountain roads, rocky trails, river crossings, or sand dunes — the Thar eats them all for breakfast.

🛣️ On-Road vs Off-Road – Dual Personality

On-Road:
The Thar has improved massively in ride quality and handling. It feels stable at high speeds, especially in the hard-top variant. However, don’t expect sedan-level comfort — this is a rugged off-roader, after all.

Off-Road:
Here’s where the Thar shows its true colors. Its short overhangs, high approach/departure angles, and 4×4 tech make it unstoppable. Add to that water wading capability of 650mm, and you’re looking at one of the best off-roaders in India.

📦 Variants & Pricing (As of 2025)

Main Trims:

AX Optional
LX

You can choose between:

Petrol / Diesel
Manual / Automatic
Convertible top / Hard top

Price Range (Ex-Showroom India):

₹11.25 lakh – ₹17.60 lakh (approx.)

Do note that the upcoming 5-door Thar is expected to cost a bit more.

🔐 Safety – Rugged but Responsible

Thar is built tough, but it’s also loaded with safety features like:

Dual airbags
ABS with EBD
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Hill-hold & hill-descent control
Roll cage and ISOFIX mounts

It received a 4-star rating from Global NCAP, making it one of the safest off-roaders in its segment.

📊 Mileage – What’s the Fuel Efficiency Like?

Being a heavy off-roader, don’t expect hatchback mileage. But it’s still decent considering its power and size.

Petrol MT: ~13 kmpl
Diesel MT: ~15–16 kmpl
Automatic variants: Slightly lower (~12–14 kmpl)

Remember, real-world mileage depends on your driving style and terrain.

📱 Tech Features – Simple Yet Useful

While the Thar doesn’t try to be a tech-fest like some urban SUVs, it still offers:

Touchscreen with navigation
Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
Tilt-adjust steering
Digital MID display
Voice alerts and Bluetooth

For an SUV that’s meant to go wild, it’s got just the right amount of gadgets.

👍 Pros & 👎 Cons

👍 Pros:

Looks absolutely stunning and muscular
True 4×4 capability at an affordable price
Reliable engines and smooth automatic options
Convertible and hardtop choices
Good resale value and brand reputation

👎 Cons:

Rear seats are not very spacious
Boot space is limited when rear seats are up
Ride quality still feels a bit bouncy
Not ideal for large families
No sunroof or ADAS (yet)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who Should Buy the Thar?

Adventure lovers who go off the beaten path
Young buyers who want a head-turning lifestyle SUV
Families looking for a fun second car
People in hilly/rural areas where 4×4 is a must

Not ideal for:

Large families or elderly passengers
People looking for max comfort and practicality

🚀 What’s Coming Next? – 5-Door Thar Incoming!

Mahindra is gearing up to launch a 5-door Thar in 2025 — a more practical version with better space, boot room, and daily usability. It’s expected to carry the same engine options, possibly tuned for better performance and efficiency.

If you love the Thar but wish it had more room, the 5-door variant might be your perfect match!

📝 Final Verdict – Is the Thar Worth Buying?

Absolutely – if you know what you want.

The Mahindra Thar isn’t trying to be the most comfortable, spacious, or tech-loaded SUV. What it does promise – and deliver – is raw power, ruggedness, and unmatched road presence.

It’s a car that you buy not just for utility, but for emotion. For freedom. For the joy of driving without limits.

So, if your heart beats for open roads, muddy tracks, and starlit camp nights — the Mahindra Thar is not just a car, it’s your calling.

🙋‍♂️ What Do You Think?

Are you planning to buy the Mahindra Thar? Or are you waiting for the 5-door version? Share your thoughts in the comments below!