The Mahindra Thar is one of the most iconic and popular SUVs in India. Launched in 2010, the Thar has evolved over the years while staying true to its SUV heritage and off-roading capabilities. But is the Thar a compact SUV, a crossover or something else? Let’s find out the exact category and positioning of the Thar.
What Type of Car is Thar?
The Thar is a 4×4 body-on-frame SUV manufactured by Mahindra & Mahindra in India. Here are some key facts about the Mahindra Thar:
- Body Style: Classic 2/4-door SUV
- Segment: Off-road compact SUV
- Length: 3985 mm
- Width: 1726 mm
- Height: 1844 mm (with roof carrier)
- Wheelbase: 2450 mm
- Ground Clearance: 226 mm
- Kerb Weight: 1655 kg
- Engine Options: 2.0L diesel, 2.2L diesel
- Power: 130 bhp
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual, 6-speed torque converter auto
- 4X4 System: Shift-on-the-fly
- Fuel Efficiency: 15-18 kmpl
- Wading Depth: 650 mm
- Approach/Departure Angle: 36° / 27°
- Seating Capacity: 4 to 6
So in terms of design, dimensions, capabilities and features, the Thar is aimed at serious off-roading rather than family transportation. The Thar was envisioned right from the start to be a rugged, no-nonsense off-roader.
Reasons Why Thar is Considered an Off-Roader SUV
Here are the main reasons why the Mahindra Thar is categorized as a compact off-road SUV:
1. Traditional Body-on-Frame Construction
The Thar utilizes a body-on-frame chassis construction which offers better rigidity and durability compared to monocoque frames used in other compact SUVs. This allows the Thar to tackle tougher off-road conditions. The ladder-on-frame design also allows for easier part replacements.
2. Generous Ground Clearance
With a ground clearance of 226 mm (unladen), the Thar can easily tackle rocky terrain, deep crevices and steep inclines off the road without the underbody getting damaged. This is much higher than the average 180 mm ground clearance of other compact SUVs.
3. Heavy-Duty 4X4 System
Thar offers a mechanically robust 4X4 system with low-range transfer case. This allows the Thar to power through slush, mud and avoid getting stuck even in the absence of paved roads unlike soft roaders. There is a shift-on-fly system to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes easily.
4. High Approach, Departure and Wading Capability
The Thar has an 36° approach angle and 27° departure angle enabling it to cross tall obstacles like large rocks without scraping the bumpers. It can also wade through 650 mm of standing water thanks to the snorkel intake and sealed electricals.
5. Rugged Exterior Styling
The Thar has a distinctly old-school SUV design that stands out from the sleek looks of modern crossovers. The flat surfaces, squarish angles, front grille with vertical slats and round headlamps give it a classic rugged appeal.
6. Off-Road Optimized Features
The Thar offers differential locks for both front and rear axles to maximize traction. Tow hooks allow you to pull the Thar out if stuck. There are power windows and air conditioning but the interiors are still barebones and meant to handle abuse.
7. Affordable Pricing
The Thar starts at just Rs. 13 lakh* which is very attractive considering its capabilities. This makes it one of the most affordable off-road ready 4x4s in the market. The Thar offers a lot of bang for the buck for adventure seekers.
So if off-tarmac exploration is your calling, the Thar has you covered with its traditional SUV virtues like body-on-frame construction, robust 4X4 system, high ground clearance and deep wading capacity.
SUV vs Crossover – How Do They Differ?
While the Thar is undoubtedly an SUV, how does it differ from modern crossovers? Here are some key points:
- Layout – SUVs have body-on-frame while crossovers use monocoque chassis
- Ground Clearance – SUVs have higher ground clearance than crossovers
- Off-road Ability – SUVs are more capable off-road compared to soft roaders
- Design – SUVs have a rugged, angular look while crossovers are curvier
- Efficiency – Crossovers tend to offer better mileage than conventional SUVs
- On-road Manners – Crossovers are easier to drive on tarmac with car-like handling
So while the Thar is a hardcore SUV, crossovers are more optimized for good on-road driving dynamics without compromising too much on the butch looks and style of a traditional SUV.
Thar – Most Capable Compact SUV in India
The Thar occupies a unique position as India’s most capable compact SUV combining the virtues of an old-school off-roader with modern touches. Here’s a quick look at its achievements:
- Over 700,000 cumulative sales since 2010 launch
- Market leader in its niche segment of off-road ready SUVs
- Sales shot up by over 80% after the 2020 upgrade
- 4-star safety rating in Global NCAP crash tests
- Feature rich cabin with touchscreen, power windows and roof options
- Powerful 130 bhp engine with 300 Nm torque
- Custom accessories and theme variants available
The Thar successfully marries rugged off-road capabilities with the comfort, technology and safety that’s expected from modern SUVs. This unique formula has made it a popular choice for enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different variants available of the Thar?
The Thar is available in AX and LX variants with option of soft top, hard top and convertible top. AX is the base variant while LX is fully-loaded.
What are the engine specifications of the latest Thar?
The 2020 Thar is powered by 2.0L mStallion 150 TGDi petrol (150 bhp/300 Nm) and 2.2L mHawk 130 diesel (130 bhp/300 Nm) engines, both mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission and 4X4 drivetrain.
How fuel efficient is the new generation Thar?
The ARAI certified mileage for the Thar diesel manual is around 16 kmpl while the automatic version delivers 15 kmpl. The petrol claims 15 kmpl for manual and 14 kmpl for the automatic variants.
What are some modern comfort features available in the Thar?
Latest convenience features include a 7-inch touchscreen, power windows, remote keyless entry, roof mounted speakers, tire pressure monitoring and cruise control. Automatic climate control, rear parking sensors and power seats are also offered.
Does the new Thar meet latest safety regulations?
Yes, the new Thar gets dual airbags, ABS, EBD, brake assist, electronic stability control, roll cage and 3-point seat belts as standard. The Thar has a 4-star Global NCAP crash test rating.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar is designed and engineered to be a hard-core off-roader with body-on-frame construction, robust 4X4 drivetrain, high ground clearance and impressive approach/departure angles. At the same time, modern touches like powertrain options, safety features and creature comforts expand its appeal. The Thar upholds the virtues of a traditional SUV while evolving with the times. So whether you are an adrenaline junkie or want a taste of adventure on weekends, the Thar delivers solid off-roading credentials in an affordable package.