Mahindra Thar

Mahindra Thar Expert Verdict

Mahindra Thar Detailed Review

• Thar Performance

  The engine options on the Gen-2 Mahindra Thar include a 2.2-litre mHawk turbocharged diesel and 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged petrol unit. The former outputs 130 PS-300 NM and the latter offers 150 PS-320 Nm. Transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed manual transmission while 6-speed automatic unit is optional. 4X4 hardware is standard across the range and so is a Mechanical Locking Differential (MLD) at rear.

  The refined diesel engine is vibe-free at low speeds, but the performance is quite lethargic below 1,500 rpm. Once the turbo spools up, there’s a strong surge of grunt that can enable the off roader to climb up even the steepest of inclines. In-gear roll-on acceleration has also improved by a significant margin. The clutch action isn’t too long or heavy and the 6-speed manual transmission offers smooth shifts. The automatic unit isn’t the smoothest-shifting unit around but recommends this over the manual for those who plan to use the SUV in an urban environment.

  The petrol engine is extremely refined and has a lot of grunt on offer. The power delivery is quite linear above, say, 1,200 rpm, and the automatic version can sprint from 0-100 kmph in 10 seconds. Even the in-gear acceleration is strong and 20-80 kph is dismissed in about 6 seconds. Unlike the diesel, the automatic gearbox here is smooth but downshifts could have been quicker. The biggest downside, however, is the low fuel efficiency of 6-7 kmpl in city conditions. Of course, 4H and 4L come to the rescue if the going gets tough. The low-ratio transfer case on the Thar is the best we’ve ever seen on any reasonably-priced off-roader.

  

  Summary

  The latest-gen Mahindra Thar is a huge improvement over the predecessor in aspects like engine and transmission. The petrol model, however, is thirsty while the auto box could have been smoother. However, the newer engines with the optional AT gearboxes have increased the appeal of the Thar.

• Thar Exterior

  Compared to the earlier version, the new Mahindra Thar comes as a breath of fresh air. That said, the SUV has successfully managed to preserve much of its retro charm while managing to look far more modern than ever. The Jeep Wrangler inspiration seems to be plentiful here but then, it’s only natural for the carmaker to carry forward the pedigree of the legendary Willy’s Jeep. Also, careful observation reveals there’s not even a single panel on the Thar that is identical to the Wrangler, which means any similarity between the aesthetics of the two off-roaders is purely due to same design DNA and not from any infringement.

   

   

  The front-end has a more premium as the rudimentary design of the previous model has made way for a more polished and upmarket theme. That said, the radiator grille looks a bit odd as we would have preferred vertical slates to gel better with the front façade. Completing the front look are the LED DRLs and indicators on the fenders.

  When viewed in profile, you’ll be quick to establish a strong connection between the silhouettes of the current- and last-gen Thar. Also, as we mentioned, the Thar is now available with multiple roof options as the buyer gets to choose between a hard top, a soft top, and a convertible top. One of the biggest highlights of the side profile is the huge 18-inch alloy wheels that fill the wheel wells nicely.

  Another design element here is that the wheel arches are roundish at the rear but squared-off up front. The rear, like the front, retains the Jeep DNA but looks more modern than the posterior of any of the predecessors. Our favourite bit here is the LED tail lights that lend a touch of sophistication to the rear façade.

  

  Summary

  The Mahindra Thar now looks quite modern whilst retaining much of the old-school charm of its predecessors. The Jeep Wrangler-inspired design is one of the selling points of the Thar. The grille is a bit odd looking though

• Thar Interior

  While the Mahindra Thar sits 226 mm above ground, the side steps allow effortless ingress and egress. The interior design and quality are a huge step up from the previous generation. The new dashboard is far more appealing, and the highlight here is the IP54 dust and water resistant 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Other than the capability of withstanding some abuse, this unit supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and satellite navigation.

  The steering wheel comes from the TUV300 and offers audio and telephone controls other than offering the cruise control button. The instrument console has an attractive design and legitimate fonts. The front passenger benefits from a dashboard-mounted grab handle but the glove compartment is tiny and won’t hold much more than the car’s instruction manual and some papers. Thankfully, though, it’s a lockable unit. Unlike the bare-bones cabin of the previous Thar, the new model offers various comfort- and convenience-enhancing features such as aircon, power windows, central locking, and electric folding ORVMs.

  

  The bucket seats in the front are extremely supportive and keep you in place on an off-road course. The steering wheel can be adjusted for tilt but not for reach. The front-facing second-row seats can accommodate two adults, but they are difficult to reach. Furthermore, with the second row in place, the boot space can only fit a couple of small size trolleys.

  Summary

  The Mahindra Thar's interior is now more car-like than ever and impresses with the various upgrades it offers over the previous model. Creature comforts are plenty and make this iteration of the Thar belong to the 21st century.

• Thar Ride and Handling

  Like all other aspects, the latest Mahindra Thar is a huge step up over its predecessor in terms of ride and handling characteristics. The SUV features coil springs with dampers on all four ends but the axle designs differ between the front and the rear. Up front, the SUV features an independent suspension with a double-wishbone setup, while the rear features a solid axle. The new Thar offers a very car-like ride quality but as it is a tall body-on-frame model, the body roll is pretty well evident.

  The suspension has been tuned to the softer side and the SUV can absorb all the undulations with aplomb. The ride quality is lush at low speeds and the 
  255 section Ceat CZAR all-terrain tyres that offer adequate grip in all conditions. The steering wheel feels a tad heavy in the city and making 3-point turns is a bit too difficult but, on the highways, the same heft turns out to be a positive attribute.

  Summary

  Driving the Mahindra Thar in the city is not particularly relaxing but where it shines is on the highway. The hydraulic power steering is a bit cumbersome to use in the city but makes it up during highway runs.

• Thar Safety

  The second generation Mahindra Thar has scored a 4-star rating at the Global NCAP with an adult protection score of 12.52/17 and a child protection score of 41.11/49. The only negative that came out of the NCAP report was that the safety for driver’s knees is marginal due to "dangerous structures behind the dashboard.

  Safety kit on offer includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, brake assist, Hill Hold Control, Electronic Stability Program, Hill Descent Control, ISOFIX child seat anchorage and rear parking sensors. Strangely, there’s no rear parking camera even on the top-spec model.

  

  Summary

  With a 4-star rating from Global NCAP, the Mahindra Thar becomes the safest thoroughbred off-roader in the mainstream car market.