Mahindra Thar: When someone mentions adventure and ruggedness in the same breath while talking about Indian automobiles, one name immediately springs to mind – the Mahindra Thar.
This iconic SUV has successfully carved out a unique position in the Indian automotive landscape, becoming synonymous with off-road capability and adventure-seeking spirits.
The current generation Thar, launched in 2020, represents a significant evolution from its predecessors while maintaining the core DNA that made it legendary.
It’s not just another SUV trying to appeal to everyone; instead, it’s a purpose-built machine designed for those who refuse to let conventional roads limit their journeys.
Mahindra Thar A Design Philosophy Built on Authenticity
The Mahindra Thar doesn’t try to hide what it is – and that’s precisely its charm. The boxy design, flat bonnet, and imposing stance make the Thar unmistakable on any road.
This isn’t a vehicle that follows contemporary design trends; instead, it creates its own visual language rooted in functionality and purpose.
The signature elements remain beautifully intact: those classic circular headlamps that have become iconic, the distinctive seven-slot grille that connects it to its heritage, and proportions that speak of capability rather than mere style.
These aren’t nostalgic design cues thrown in for emotional appeal – they’re functional elements that serve the vehicle’s primary purpose.
From the side profile, the large 18-inch alloy wheels immediately grab attention, though many owners find themselves upgrading to even larger sizes for enhanced visual impact.
The choice between a fixed hard top or convertible soft top adds another layer of customization, though recent updates have seen the discontinuation of the convertible variants, making the hard top standard across all models.
Exterior Specifications Table
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 3,985 mm |
| Width | 1,820-1,855 mm |
| Height | 1,844-1,855 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,450 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 226 mm |
| Approach Angle | 41.8° |
| Departure Angle | 36.8° |
| Breakover Angle | 26.2° |
| Water Fording Depth | 650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 litres |
Where Function Meets Form: Interior Experience
Step inside the Thar, and you’ll immediately understand that this isn’t your typical modern SUV focused on luxury and refinement.
The interior philosophy centers around utility, durability, and functionality – characteristics that perfectly align with the vehicle’s adventurous nature.
The all-black interior theme may seem basic to some, but it serves a purpose. Hard plastics dominate the cabin, which might feel cheap in a luxury sedan but makes perfect sense in an off-road focused vehicle.
These materials can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, muddy boots, wet gear, and the occasional rough handling that comes with serious off-roading.
Key Interior Features:
Black vinyl upholstery designed for durability over luxury
Tilt-adjustable steering wheel for optimal driving position
Height-adjustable driver’s seat as standard
Washable interior floor – a practical touch for adventurous outings
IP54 water resistance rating for essential components
Chassis number nameplate on the co-driver’s side – a unique touch
The cabin accommodates four passengers comfortably, though it’s clear this was designed with adventure rather than family hauling in mind.
The seating position provides excellent outward visibility, crucial for navigating challenging terrain, while the seats offer decent back support for long journeys.
Engine Options: Power for Every Adventure
The Thar offers a comprehensive range of powertrains, ensuring there’s an option for every type of user and budget consideration. This variety sets it apart from competitors who often limit choices to keep costs down.
Engine Specifications Table
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Transmission Options | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel (Base) | 1.5L | 119 PS @ 3,500 rpm | 300 Nm | 6-speed Manual | RWD |
| Petrol | 2.0L Turbo | 152 PS @ 5,000 rpm | 300 Nm | 6-speed Manual/Auto | RWD/4WD |
| Diesel (High-spec) | 2.2L | 132 PS @ 3,750 rpm | 300 Nm | 6-speed Manual/Auto | RWD/4WD |
Performance Characteristics:
The 1.5-liter diesel engine serves as the entry point into Thar ownership.
While it may seem underpowered on paper, it provides adequate performance for city driving and occasional highway runs. The clutch feel is relatively light, making city driving more manageable, though the longer clutch travel takes some getting used to.
For those seeking more robust performance, the 2.2-liter diesel engine represents the sweet spot.
This powerplant is smooth, revs freely even under stress, and delivers impressive acceleration from low speeds up to highway cruising velocities. The diesel engine’s character perfectly matches the Thar’s adventurous personality – strong, reliable, and ready for extended journeys.
The 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine brings a different flavor to the Thar experience. It’s significantly smoother than its diesel counterparts, with minimal noise, vibration, and harshness levels.
However, this refinement comes at the cost of fuel efficiency, making it more suitable for those who prioritize smooth operation over running costs.
Off-Road Supremacy: Where the Thar Truly Shines
While many SUVs claim off-road capability, the Thar actually delivers on these promises. The impressive ground clearance of 226mm allows confident navigation over obstacles that would scrape the underside of conventional vehicles.
But ground clearance alone doesn’t make an off-roader – it’s the combination of multiple factors that gives the Thar its legendary capability.
Off-Road Technical Specifications:
Ground clearance: 226mm
Approach angle: 41.8 degrees
Departure angle: 36.8 degrees
Breakover angle: 26.2 degrees
Water fording depth: 650mm
These numbers translate into real-world capability. The approach angle of 41.8 degrees means the Thar can climb steep obstacles without the front bumper making contact. Similarly, the departure angle ensures the rear doesn’t drag when cresting hills or obstacles.
Advanced Off-Road Features:
Low-range transfer case for enhanced control
Mechanical locking differentials
Brake locking differential (RWD models)
Electric locking differential (4WD models)
Multiple terrain modes
Hill hold assist and hill descent control
Traction control system
During testing, the Thar has proven its mettle across various challenging terrains.
Whether navigating rocky trails, fording water crossings, or tackling steep inclines, the vehicle demonstrates remarkable composure and capability. The ample low-end torque from both diesel engines provides the grunt needed to power through loose surfaces and challenging conditions.
Variant Breakdown: Choosing Your Adventure
The Thar lineup offers clear choices based on requirements and budget. Understanding these variants helps potential buyers make informed decisions about which configuration best suits their needs.
AX (O) Variant: This base variant focuses on essentials, offering basic amenities like air conditioning, power windows, and central locking. It’s ideal for buyers who plan extensive customization or simply want the core Thar experience without additional features.
LX Variant: The LX represents the sweet spot for most buyers, adding modern conveniences considered essential in 2025. These include a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, and a full-color driver display. The feature set strikes a good balance between utility and modern expectations.
Recent Updates and Changes:
Discontinuation of convertible soft-top variants
Introduction of new color options including Deep Forest
Price increases of up to 3% across the lineup
Enhanced safety features and build quality improvements
Real-World Ownership: Living with the Thar
Owning a Thar involves certain compromises, and potential buyers should understand these before making a decision. This isn’t a vehicle that excels in every area – it’s purpose-built for specific use cases.
City Driving Experience: Despite its off-road focus, the Thar manages city duties reasonably well.
The compact dimensions help in tight parking situations, while the commanding driving position provides excellent visibility in traffic. However, the firm suspension setup and off-road-biased tires create a different on-road character compared to conventional SUVs.
Highway Performance: On highways, the Thar cruises comfortably at 80-100 kmph, though it doesn’t encourage aggressive driving or high-speed overtaking maneuvers. The diesel engines provide adequate power for highway journeys, while the automatic transmission options make long drives more relaxed.
Fuel Efficiency Expectations: Fuel economy varies significantly based on driving conditions and engine choice:
City driving: 10-12 kmpl (diesel), 8-10 kmpl (petrol)
Highway driving: 14-15 kmpl (diesel), 10-12 kmpl (petrol)
Off-road driving: Significantly lower due to demanding conditions
Safety and Build Quality
The Thar has earned a respectable four-star rating in Global NCAP crash tests, demonstrating solid build quality and safety performance. The high-strength steel construction provides excellent protection while maintaining the structural integrity needed for off-road stress.
Safety Features Include:
Dual front airbags (base variants)
ABS with EBD
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Hill hold assist
Hill descent control
Rear parking sensors
Market Position and Value Proposition
With prices starting at ₹11.50 lakh and extending to ₹17.62 lakh (ex-showroom), the Thar occupies a unique position in the Indian market. It’s not competing directly with family-oriented compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos. Instead, it targets buyers seeking genuine off-road capability with acceptable on-road manners.
Key Advantages:
Unmatched off-road capability in its price range
Strong build quality and reliability
Iconic design with strong emotional appeal
Multiple engine and transmission options
Strong resale value and brand recognition
Extensive aftermarket support for customization
Considerations for Buyers:
Firm ride quality may not suit all passengers
Limited rear seat space compared to family SUVs
Higher fuel consumption, especially with petrol engines
Road noise and NVH levels higher than conventional SUVs
Best suited as a second vehicle for most families
Mahindra Thar The Verdict: Adventure Calling
The Mahindra Thar succeeds brilliantly at being exactly what it set out to be – a genuine off-road vehicle that doesn’t compromise its core mission to appeal to a broader audience.
It represents freedom, adventure, and the ability to explore places where conventional vehicles fear to tread.
For buyers seeking a vehicle that can handle both daily commuting and weekend adventures, the Thar offers a compelling proposition. It’s mature enough to serve as a primary vehicle for those willing to accept certain compromises, yet specialized enough to excel in its intended environment.
The Thar has matured from being a bare-bones off-roader into a more well-rounded experience with broader capabilities.
While it maintains its adventurous spirit, modern conveniences and improved build quality make it accessible to a wider range of buyers.
If you’ve ever felt confined by conventional roads, if the call of unexplored trails resonates with your spirit, then the Mahindra Thar isn’t just a vehicle – it’s your passport to adventures that most people only dream about.
In a world increasingly dominated by sanitized, homogenized vehicles, the Thar stands as a refreshing reminder that some machines are still built with purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to their core mission.
The Thar doesn’t just transport you from point A to point B – it transforms the journey itself into the destination, making every mile an adventure worth experiencing.