Mahindra Thar

The Mahindra Thar is more than just a vehicle—it’s a lifestyle statement for adventure enthusiasts and off-road lovers in India and beyond. Launched in its first iteration on October 4, 2010, the Thar has evolved significantly over the years, with its second-generation model, introduced on August 15, 2020, redefining its place in the Indian automotive market. Named after the vast and rugged Thar Desert in Rajasthan, this compact, four-wheel-drive (and rear-wheel-drive in some variants) SUV draws inspiration from the iconic Jeep CJ series, a design lineage Mahindra has nurtured since the 1940s under a licensing agreement. Initially positioned as a no-frills off-roader succeeding the Mahindra Major and MM540, the Thar has transformed into a versatile vehicle that balances rugged capability with modern comforts, appealing to both hardcore off-roaders and urban drivers seeking a bold road presence.

The second-generation Thar, launched in 2020, brought a significant leap in design, technology, and refinement, making it a standout in the lifestyle SUV segment. With its boxy silhouette, removable roof options, and robust off-road hardware, it retains its core identity while adding contemporary features like a touchscreen infotainment system, advanced safety equipment, and multiple powertrain choices. In 2024, Mahindra expanded the Thar lineup with the Thar ROXX, a five-door variant, further broadening its appeal to families and those needing more practicality without sacrificing its off-road ethos. As of March 2, 2025, the Thar continues to dominate its segment, blending heritage with modernity, and remains a symbol of freedom and adventure on Indian roads.

Technical Specifications

The Mahindra Thar offers three engine options—two diesel and one petrol—catering to different driving needs. Below is a detailed table of its technical specifications, compiled from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the standard configurations available as of March 2025.

Note: Mileage figures for 2.2L diesel and 2.0L petrol are real-world estimates from user reviews on CarWale and ZigWheels, as ARAI figures vary by driving conditions. The 4WD variants include a mechanical locking differential and low-range gearbox for enhanced off-road performance.

Variants

The Mahindra Thar is available in multiple variants, offering a mix of drivetrains, transmission options, and roof configurations (hard-top or convertible soft-top). Below is a table listing the key variants as of March 2025, sourced from CarDekho and ZigWheels.

Note: The Earth Edition is a special-edition variant based on the LX trim, featuring unique Desert Fury color and cosmetic enhancements. The AX Opt (Adventure Edition Optional) is the base trim, while LX (Luxury) offers more features.

Price in Metro Cities

The on-road price of the Mahindra Thar varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table of approximate on-road prices for select variants in major metro cities as of March 2025, compiled from CarDekho and CarWale data.

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealership offers, additional accessories, and insurance variations. Ex-showroom prices start at ₹11.50 lakh for the base variant and go up to ₹17.60 lakh for the top-end Earth Edition Diesel AT (as per CarDekho).

About the Mahindra Thar

The Mahindra Thar is a vehicle that wears its rugged heritage proudly while adapting to the demands of modern buyers. Its design is unmistakably inspired by the Jeep Wrangler, featuring a boxy stance, round headlights, a seven-slat grille, and flared wheel arches that house chunky 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 255/65 R18 all-terrain tires. This aesthetic isn’t just for show—the Thar is built on a ladder-frame chassis with a high ground clearance of 226 mm, approach angle of 41.8 degrees, departure angle of 36.8 degrees, and a ramp-over angle of 27 degrees, making it a formidable off-roader. Features like a mechanical locking rear differential (in 4WD variants) and a manually engaged low-range gearbox ensure it can tackle sand, mud, rocks, and steep inclines with ease.

Under the hood, the Thar offers three engine options to suit different preferences. The 1.5L diesel, exclusive to RWD variants, delivers 117.3 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. It’s designed for buyers who want the Thar’s rugged appeal at a lower price point without needing 4WD capability. The 2.2L diesel, available only in 4WD trims, produces 130.07 bhp and 300 Nm, offering a choice between manual and automatic transmissions. This engine is smooth, responsive, and ideal for off-road adventures, with ample low-end torque for crawling over obstacles. The 2.0L turbo-petrol engine, available in both RWD and 4WD configurations, churns out 150.19 bhp and up to 320 Nm (with the automatic), providing a punchy and refined driving experience, though its fuel efficiency (7-9 kmpl in real-world conditions) is a notable drawback.

Inside, the Thar has evolved from its utilitarian roots into a more habitable space. The cabin features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, and manual AC with rear vents. The dashboard sports a dual-tone finish with silver accents and Thar badging, adding a touch of modernity. However, it retains some old-school charm with features like a key-operated fuel lid and fabric door restraints. Seating is limited to four occupants, with decent headroom but awkward rear access due to the high floor and need to fold the front seats. Boot space is minimal (enough for 3-4 soft bags), though the rear seats fold down for extra cargo capacity.

Safety is a strong suit for the Thar, with a 4-star Global NCAP rating for adult protection in 2020. Standard features include dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), hill-hold and hill-descent control, rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Higher trims add a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and a rear defogger. However, it misses out on some modern conveniences like a sunroof, automatic climate control, or a rear-view camera, which some competitors offer at similar price points.

The Thar’s driving dynamics reflect its off-road focus. On highways, the petrol variants feel brisk and responsive, while the diesel options offer steady cruising ability. However, its stiff suspension and boxy shape result in a firm ride and noticeable body roll, making it less comfortable for long urban commutes compared to softer SUVs like the Hyundai Creta. Off the road, though, it shines—whether navigating rocky trails or wading through water (up to 650 mm deep), the Thar’s capability is unmatched in its class. The availability of RWD variants has also broadened its appeal, slashing the entry price and attracting buyers who prioritize style over extreme off-road prowess.

Mahindra has kept the Thar fresh with updates like the Earth Edition, launched in 2024, which adds a unique Desert Fury color, matte black badges, and dune-inspired decals, enhancing its visual appeal. The brand’s decision to introduce the Thar ROXX—a five-door version—in August 2024 further demonstrates its commitment to evolving the Thar lineage. The ROXX, built on the Scorpio N’s platform, offers more space, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), earning a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating. While it commands a higher price (starting at ₹12.99 lakh ex-showroom), it bridges the gap between the Thar’s rugged roots and family-friendly practicality.

The Thar’s market success is undeniable, with over 2 lakh units sold since 2020, as reported by CarDekho. Its versatility—available in RWD or 4WD, petrol or diesel, manual or automatic—combined with a starting price of ₹11.50 lakh (ex-showroom) makes it a compelling value proposition. However, it’s not without flaws. Fuel efficiency, especially in petrol variants, is poor, and the rear-seat experience is compromised by limited legroom and accessibility. Maintenance costs can also be higher due to its specialized off-road components, and the lack of features like LED headlights or a dead pedal might disappoint some buyers.

Close Competitors

The Mahindra Thar operates in a niche segment of lifestyle off-road SUVs, but it faces competition from both direct rivals and mainstream SUVs. Here’s an analysis of its closest competitors:

1. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
   Launched in 2023, the Jimny is the Thar’s primary rival in the off-road SUV space. Priced between ₹12.76 lakh and ₹14.95 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s slightly more expensive at the base level but cheaper at the top end. Powered by a 1.5L naturally aspirated petrol engine (103 bhp, 134 Nm) with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, it offers 4WD as standard across all variants. The Jimny’s lighter weight (1,200 kg vs. Thar’s 1,750 kg) and narrower dimensions make it more agile off-road, but it lacks the Thar’s raw power and torque. It also offers a softer ride and better fuel efficiency (16.94 kmpl ARAI), appealing to buyers who want off-road capability with urban comfort. However, its smaller boot and less imposing road presence can’t match the Thar’s rugged charisma.
2. Force Gurkha
   The Force Gurkha, priced between ₹16.75 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom), is another dedicated off-roader competing with the Thar’s 4WD variants. Its 2.6L diesel engine (138 bhp, 320 Nm) paired with a 5-speed manual and standard 4WD gives it an edge in torque, ideal for extreme off-roading. With a water-wading depth of 700 mm and a snorkel, it outclasses the Thar in some off-road scenarios. However, the Gurkha’s dated interior, lack of automatic transmission, and limited service network make it less practical for daily use. The Thar’s modern features and broader appeal give it a significant advantage.
3. Mahindra Thar ROXX (Internal Competitor)
   The Thar ROXX, starting at ₹12.99 lakh and going up to ₹23.09 lakh (ex-showroom), is an internal competitor from Mahindra’s stable. With a 5-door layout, larger dimensions (4,428 mm length, 2,750 mm wheelbase), and premium features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, and ADAS, it targets buyers needing more space and refinement. Its 2.0L petrol (160 bhp) and 2.2L diesel (150 bhp) engines are more powerful, and it retains 4WD capability in higher trims. While it dilutes the Thar’s compact charm, it’s a practical alternative for families, though at a higher cost.
4. Jeep Wrangler (Premium Competitor)
   Priced at ₹67.65 lakh and above (ex-showroom), the Jeep Wrangler is a distant competitor due to its premium positioning. Its 2.0L turbo-petrol engine (268 bhp, 400 Nm) and advanced 4WD system make it a superior off-roader, with unmatched build quality and heritage. However, its steep price places it in a different league, appealing to a luxury audience rather than the Thar’s mass-market buyers.
5. Mainstream SUVs (Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos)
   Priced between ₹11 lakh and ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom), the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos compete indirectly by offering superior on-road comfort, fuel efficiency (up to 20 kmpl), and features like ventilated seats, sunroofs, and automatic climate control. They lack off-road capability (no 4WD), but their practicality and softer ride make them alternatives for buyers prioritizing urban use over adventure.

The Mahindra Thar is a unique proposition in India’s automotive landscape, blending rugged off-road prowess with a distinctive style that turns heads. Its range of variants—from the affordable RWD diesel to the fully loaded Earth Edition—caters to diverse budgets and needs, while its technical specs ensure it remains a benchmark in off-road performance. Priced competitively in metro cities, it undercuts premium rivals like the Jeep Wrangler while holding its own against the Jimny and Gurkha. The introduction of the Thar ROXX adds a practical dimension, though it slightly overlaps with the 3-door Thar’s core appeal. For those seeking an SUV that thrives beyond the pavement, the Thar remains an unmatched icon—imperfect for city comfort, perhaps, but unrivaled in spirit and capability.