In the realm of Indian automobiles, few vehicles command the respect and admiration that the Mahindra Thar does. Born from a legacy that traces back to the original Willys Jeep, the Thar has evolved into a modern icon that seamlessly blends rugged capability with contemporary comfort. The latest iteration of the Thar, launched in 2020, marks a significant leap forward, transforming it from a niche off-roader to a lifestyle SUV that’s equally at home in urban jungles and untamed terrains.
Design: A Nod to the Past, A Step into the Future
The new Mahindra Thar’s design is a masterclass in evolutionary styling. While it retains the boxy, upright stance that’s synonymous with its heritage, the new model incorporates modern design elements that give it a fresh, contemporary appeal.
Key design features include:
- Iconic seven-slot grille, paying homage to its Jeep lineage
- Round headlamps with LED daytime running lights
- Flared wheel arches housing large alloy wheels
- Removable roof panels (hard-top, soft-top, and convertible options)
- Upright windshield and near-vertical tailgate
- LED taillamps and a side-hinged rear door
The design successfully walks the tightrope between retro charm and modern aesthetics, appealing to both purists and new-age SUV enthusiasts.
Powertrains: Brute Force Meets Refinement
Under the hood, the new Thar offers a choice of two robust powertrains:
- 2.0-liter mStallion Turbo Petrol Engine:
- Power output: 150 bhp
- Torque: 320 Nm
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
- 2.2-liter mHawk Diesel Engine:
- Power output: 130 bhp
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
Both engines offer a significant upgrade in terms of power and refinement compared to the previous generation Thar. The inclusion of automatic transmission options for both petrol and diesel variants broadens the Thar’s appeal, making it more accessible to urban buyers who might be intimidated by manual transmissions.
Off-Road Prowess: True to Its Roots
While the new Thar has evolved into a more well-rounded vehicle, it hasn’t forgotten its off-road heritage. The SUV comes equipped with:
- Shift-on-fly 4×4 transfer case
- Mechanical locking differential on the rear axle
- Brake locking differential on the front axle
- 226mm ground clearance
- 650mm water wading capability
- Approach angle of 41.8 degrees, departure angle of 36.8 degrees, and ramp-over angle of 27 degrees
These features, combined with the robust ladder-frame chassis and independent front suspension with a multi-link rear setup, ensure that the Thar remains one of the most capable off-roaders in its class.
Interior: From Spartan to Sophisticated
One of the most significant upgrades in the new Thar is its interior. Gone are the bare-bones, utilitarian interiors of the past, replaced by a cabin that offers comfort and features on par with modern urban SUVs.
Key interior features include:
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Drizzle-resistant IP54 rated dashboard
- Roof-mounted speakers
- Multi-function steering wheel with cruise control
- Tilt-adjustable steering column
- Front-facing rear seats (a significant departure from the side-facing seats of the previous generation)
- Washable interior with drain plugs for easy cleaning after off-road adventures
The new interior strikes a balance between durability and comfort, making the Thar suitable for daily urban use while retaining its ability to tackle off-road trails.
Safety: Prioritizing Protection
Mahindra has made significant strides in improving the Thar’s safety credentials. The new model comes equipped with:
- Dual front airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with rollover mitigation
- Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Built-in roll cage
- 3-point seatbelts for all passengers
These features have contributed to the Thar securing a 4-star safety rating from Global NCAP, a commendable achievement for a vehicle in its class.
On-Road Behavior: Tamed for the Urban Jungle
While the Thar’s off-road capabilities are well-documented, the new model shows significant improvements in on-road behavior. The wider track and longer wheelbase contribute to improved stability, while the new suspension setup offers a more compliant ride on tarmac.
The steering, while still retaining some of the heft expected in an off-roader, is more precise and offers better feedback. NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels have been significantly reduced, making long highway journeys more comfortable than ever before in a Thar.
Market Positioning and Competition
The new Mahindra Thar occupies a unique position in the Indian market. While it competes indirectly with compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, its true competition in terms of off-road capability is limited to more expensive options like the Jeep Compass Trailhawk.
Mahindra has positioned the Thar as a lifestyle vehicle, appealing to:
- Off-road enthusiasts
- Adventure seekers
- Urban buyers looking for a distinctive, characterful SUV
This positioning has allowed Mahindra to price the Thar at a premium, with the top-end variants competing with larger, more conventional SUVs.
Cultural Impact: More Than Just a Vehicle
The Thar has transcended its status as a mere automobile to become a cultural icon in India. It represents a spirit of adventure and independence that resonates with a wide range of consumers. The launch of the new Thar was one of the most anticipated automotive events in recent Indian history, generating buzz across social media platforms and automotive communities.
Mahindra has capitalized on this cultural cachet by:
- Offering a wide range of official accessories and customization options
- Creating Thar-specific adventure experiences and off-road events
- Fostering a community of Thar owners through clubs and social media groups
This approach has turned Thar ownership into more than just a purchase; it’s an entry into a lifestyle and a community.
Environmental Considerations
While the Thar is primarily known for its rugged, fuel-consuming image, Mahindra has made efforts to improve its environmental credentials:
- Both engines are BS6 compliant, meeting the latest emission norms
- The petrol engine option provides a relatively cleaner alternative to the diesel
- Mahindra has hinted at the possibility of a hybrid or electric Thar in the future, aligning with global trends towards electrification
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its many improvements, the new Thar does face some challenges:
- Price point: The significant upgrades have pushed the Thar into a higher price bracket, making it less accessible to some traditional buyers
- Fuel efficiency: Both engines, while powerful, are not the most frugal in their class
- Practicality: Despite improvements, the two-door design and limited boot space can be restrictive for some users
- On-road dynamics: While improved, the Thar still can’t match conventional SUVs in terms of on-road comfort and handling
Future Prospects
The success of the new Thar has opened up several possibilities for Mahindra:
- Potential for a more practical four-door variant
- Expansion into international markets, leveraging the Thar’s unique positioning
- Development of more powerful, performance-oriented variants
- Integration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in future updates
Conclusion: A Legend Reborn
The new Mahindra Thar represents a significant milestone in the Indian automotive landscape. It showcases the ability of an Indian manufacturer to produce a world-class vehicle that stays true to its roots while meeting modern expectations of comfort, safety, and performance.
For enthusiasts, the Thar offers a gateway to adventure, capable of conquering terrains that would make most SUVs balk. For urban dwellers, it presents an opportunity to stand out from the crowd, making a statement with every drive. And for Mahindra, it serves as a flagship product, demonstrating their engineering prowess and understanding of the evolving Indian consumer.
The Thar’s journey from a bare-bones off-roader to a desirable lifestyle SUV mirrors India’s own journey of economic liberalization and growing consumer aspirations. It stands as a testament to the country’s automotive engineering capabilities and the changing preferences of the Indian car buyer.
As the automotive world moves towards electrification and autonomy, the Thar serves as a reminder of the joy of driving, the thrill of exploration, and the enduring appeal of vehicles with character. In a market increasingly dominated by crossovers and soft-roaders, the Mahindra Thar stands tall – quite literally – as a beacon for those who dare to be different, those who seek adventure, and those who appreciate the harmony of heritage and modernity.
The legend of the Thar continues, reimagined for a new era but carrying forward the indomitable spirit that has made it an icon. Whether crawling over rocks or cruising down city streets, the Mahindra Thar is more than just an SUV; it’s a statement, an adventure waiting to happen, and a piece of automotive history rolling into the future.