Mahindra Thar OG

car&bike Expert Take

“The Mahindra Thar is a dedicated lifestyle SUV that is ideal for buyers who value off-road capabilities and strong road presence over everyday comfort. It is not ideal as a primary family car, but its best attribute is still the authentic 4x4 hardware and unmistakable character.”

Mahindra Thar Overview

This Thar review is brought to you from the car&bike expert team and insights from the road test. Conducted by Seshan Vijayraghavan, Senior Auto Journalist, expert analysis via Shams Raza Naqvi (senior editor, 16 years of experience in automobile testing), who compared the Thar vs Jimny and Bilal Firfiray, all from the car&bike team. 
First launched in October 2010, the three-door Mahindra Thar was designed as a mechanical tool, and not a family SUV. Over the years, it gained credibility by durability and off-road performance as opposed to refinement. The second-generation Thar was introduced in 2020 and it was a turning point. Mahindra kept the ladder frame chassis and serious 4x4 hardware, but added safety, better interiors and broader appeal. Next, Mahindra added RWD into the picture in 2023 January for a broader urban appeal.  
The 2025 update, launched on October 3, was not a mechanical facelift. Instead, Mahindra concentrated on usability upgrades. The three-door Thar now gets a bigger 10.25 inch touchscreen, updated door-mounted window switches, an integrated armrest with cupholders, a rear-view camera relocated in the spare wheel housing, rear wiper and washer, and more soft-touch inserts inside the cabin. Moreover, the ladder frame chassis, engine options and suspension geometry are the same.

These changes were evidently inspired by the five-door Thar Roxx, which is positioned as the more practical and family-oriented version of the Thar. Whilst the Roxx expands rear-seat access and cabin usability, the three-door Thar retains its shorter wheelbase and more focused off-road stance.

Seshan Vijayraghavan pointed out in his analysis, 
“The new Thar is no longer purchased by only hardcore off-roaders. A large section of buyers want it for the design and presence and will mostly drive it on-road with the RWD integration.”

Mahindra Thar Performance

In various tests, such as city driving, highway cruising, and off-road trails, the Thar always behaved like a purpose-built ladder frame SUV.

Engine Options Evaluated

1.5-litre CRDe Diesel RWD 

The 1.5-litre diesel RWD was tested extensively by Seshan Vijayraghavan in urban conditions as well as over rough patches. Mahindra says that 55 per cent of peak torque is available from just 1,000 rpm, and in our evaluation, this turned out to be true.
In traffic and on uneven roads, the Thar RWD pulls clean with minimal throttle input needed. The lighter weight from the absence of 4WD hardware makes up for the lower power output than the 2.2-litre diesel.

However, refinement is still a weak area. Seshan Vijayraghavan pointed out the following aspects:

“The manual gearbox feels clunky, particularly between first and second gears. In stop-go traffic, you are constantly reminded that this is still a utilitarian SUV,”

This engine is best for buyers who prefer stance and torque over smoothness.

2.2-litre mHawk Diesel 4WD

Based on both road and off-road testing, the 2.2-litre diesel 4WD is still the engine that suits the character of the Thar the best.
During highway runs, cruising at 100-120 km/h felt quite relaxed and the engine never felt strained even with passengers and luggage onboard. Off-road, the combination of strong low-end torque, low-range gearing and short overhangs means that the Thar climbs, crawls and descends with confidence.

Across various evaluations, we found that this is the variant that gives one the complete Thar experience with no compromise.

2.0-litre Turbo-Petrol 

The turbo-petrol Thar is the most refined to drive, especially in automatic form. Power delivery is smooth, throttle response is good, and the gearbox is suitable for urban use.
During comparative off-road testing against the Jimny, Shams Raza Naqvi saw that the turbocharged engine gives the Thar an edge when quick bursts of power are required.
Additionally, Shams mentioned: 
"The additional boost and torque from the turbo engine helps the Thar to tackle more extreme obstacles, but it also requires more driver input,"

The downside, which we consistently saw, is fuel efficiency. This is the most expensive Thar to operate on a day-to-day basis.

Off-Road Credentials

The Thar's off-road credentials come from proper mechanical hardware rather than cosmetic cues. The ladder frame chassis permits better torsional flex on uneven terrain, i.e. the wheels do not lift off the ground. The low-range transfer case is used to multiply low-speed torque and is essential for rock crawling or climbing steep inclines where normal throttle control is insufficient.
Short overhangs help create good approach and departure angles, which make it less likely to scrape bumpers on high grades. With 226 mm of ground clearance, the Thar can clear deep ruts and broken trails that will put most soft-roaders on the ground. Hill descent control actively controls braking activity on steep descents, which permits the driver to focus solely on steering input.
This is what distinguishes the Thar from monocoque soft road SUVs, which use electronic traction aids without mechanical low-range gearing.

Mahindra Thar Design

The reason why the Thar has become iconic is not only due to its boxy shape, but it is also the representation of accessible off-roading in India. For more than 10 years, it has been one of the few SUVs that combine mechanical 4WD hardware with relative affordability. Unlike lifestyle SUVs that only look rugged, the Thar made its name by having actual trail capability, enthusiast communities and real-world use in deserts, mountains and rural terrain. That credibility is hard to match and accounts for its cult following.

According to Bilal Firfiray, who analysed the old vs new Thar in 2025, Mahindra made a deliberate effort not to change the proportions or silhouette. He analysed: 
“This isn’t a facelift. Mahindra has given a new lease of life to what people interact with every day, without touching what made the Thar iconic."

The boxy form, flat panels, upright windscreen, exposed hinges and rear-mounted spare wheel are there as they always have been. This is not about being aerodynamic or being of the highest urban fashion. It has to do with visual toughness and brand identity.

Mahindra Thar Design Comparison 

From a design and proportion perspective, the three-door Thar is shorter, but significantly wider, than the Jimny, which gives it a planted, muscular stance that stands out in traffic. Compared to the Thar Roxx, the three-door version looks more compact and purpose-built, while the Roxx looks more proportionate and family-friendly. The Gurkha is taller and more upright, but does not have the visual aggression and modern detailing of the Thar.
 

Mahindra Thar Exterior

In the latest Thar, we saw that there are small changes, but they are significant for day-to-day usability, especially for urban owners.

Front Profile

The Thar retains its round headlamps and six-slat grille. The body-coloured grille and dual-tone bumper introduced in 2025 make it appear premium without compromising its rugged character. Approach angles are still good and functional.

Side Profile

Despite being a three-door SUV, the Thar's high stance and wide track make it an SUV that has serious road presence. During our evaluation, the 226mm ground clearance was not only useful off-road, but also on badly broken city roads.

Rear Profile

Functional improvements are made here, and can be noticed:

• Rear-view camera incorporated in the spare wheel mount
• Rear wiper and washer
• Internal fuel-filler release

Mahindra Thar Interior

Inside, the Thar is the same as ever, unapologetic in its ruggedness, but the 2025 updates take remedial action at some of the longstanding usability complaints.

Cabin Layout & Quality

The dashboard is upright and functional, with hard plastics dominating, which have a durability about them. The greatest improvement is still in ergonomics.

Bilal Firfiray points out,
“The Thar's cabin is still not plush, but it does feel like it was thought through.”

As we have seen during our testing, Bilal Firfiray confirms:

• Window switches are now back on the doors
• A proper armrest with cupholders has been added
• Grab handles aid ingress and egress
• Soft-touch inserts improve perceived quality

Moreover, the new 10.25-inch touchscreen is a huge improvement. It is responsive and well-placed, and is easy to use, although the smartphone connectivity is still wired.

Front Seats and Driving Position

Getting into the front seats is an effort because of the 

tall position, but once in, the commanding driving position is obvious. Visibility is excellent with the flat windscreen and large windows, which are useful in traffic as well as off-road. Seat cushioning is firm but provides support, which makes it possible to manage longer drives. 
The driver's seat has height adjustment and the steering has tilt adjustment, but there is no telescopic adjustment to allow fine-tuning. On city driving, the footwell was a little cramped, but automatic versions have the advantage of a dead pedal.
According to Seshan Vijayraghavan,
“Being high and in control is what Thar buyers expect.”

Rear Seats and Practicality

Rear seat access is inconvenient because of the three-door configuration, which requires the front seat to be folded forward. Space is limited and while there is usable headroom, there is compromised leg room and under-thigh support. During our time with the car, the back seat was good for short trips, but not long trips.
Rear AC vents, adjustable headrests and a USB Type-C port make it easier to use, but the Thar is still a four-seater best used with occasional rear passengers.

Seshan pointed out in his opinion that,

“Realistically, the rear bench is best used occasionally." Buyers planning to carry adults in the back on a regular basis should consider the five-door Thar Roxx instead.”

Mahindra Thar Pricing

The Mahindra Thar is priced as a lifestyle SUV and not a value-driven mainstream offering. While the entry price tag looks competitive, the expenses rapidly take over when you choose stronger engines, automatic gearboxes, or 4x4 wheel drive hardware.

Ex-showroom Prices (India)

(Prices are ex-showroom and may differ from state to state)

During our pricing evaluation, it became clear that the Thar makes financial sense only when its strengths are actually used. Compared to rivals such as the Jimny, the Thar is a premium vehicle, especially so when it comes in 4WD automatic form.
As Shams Raza Naqvi highlighted during comparative testing,
  “The Thar is more expensive, but you're paying for torque, presence and that turbo-punch which the Jimny just doesn't have.”

Buyers should also consider higher insurance costs, fuel costs (particularly petrol automatics) and tyre replacement costs as well. 

Mahindra Thar Mileage: Real-World Observations

Fuel efficiency is not the Thar's priority and our testing proved that to be true. Its ladder frame construction, weight and all-terrain tyres are natural limitations of mileage.

Observed fuel efficiency during testing:

• 1.5-litre Diesel RWD:
  City: 10–12 kmpl | Highway: 15–16 kmpl
• 2.2-litre Diesel 4WD:
  City: 11–12 kmpl (MT), 8–10 kmpl (AT) | Highway: 15–16 kmpl
• 2.0-litre Turbo Petrol:
  City: 7–8 kmpl | Highway: 10–12 kmpl

In long highway runs, the diesel variants proved much more usable, especially when driving at constant speeds. Petrol versions, although faster and smoother, were significantly more fuel-guzzling in the city.

Mahindra Thar Safety: What the Rating Means

The Mahindra Thar has a four-star Global NCAP rating, which is reassuring in a ladder frame SUV. Importantly, the model tested showed a stable body shell in frontal impact tests, which is noteworthy for a ladder frame SUV. While it lacks six airbags and ADAS features, its body-on-frame structure puts it ahead of many older body-on-frame SUVs sold in India.

On the road, systems such as ESP, hill-hold and hill descent control have a meaningful role to play in everyday and off-road driving. On steep descents and loose surfaces, hill descent control also actively manages the braking system so that the driver can concentrate on steering and not pedal modulation. ESP is used in the initial stages of wet tarmac and uneven roads, which is very important considering the tall stance and short wheelbase of the Thar.

That said, there is one area where the Thar shows its age, which is safety equipment depth. The lack of six airbags, particularly at higher price points, is an obvious limitation in 2026. Rear parking sensors and the rear-view camera make it easier to manoeuvre, but there is no advanced driver assistance or active collision avoidance.
As Bilal Firfiray explains in his update analysis,
"The Thar has improved in areas where it counts in terms of structure, but feature-led safety is still not where newer rivals are."

Mahindra Thar Technology & Interface

Technology in the Thar is intended to assist driving, not take attention away from driving. The 2025 update finally brings with it a 10.25-inch touchscreen, replacing the old basic interface. In actual use, the screen is clear, responsive enough and positioned well to see in bright sunlight. Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay worked in our testing without dropouts.
More importantly, the Thar's tech choices are in line with its use case. The mostly analogue instrument cluster, combined with a digital MID, may be old-school, but off-road, it works well. Readouts are presentable when the car is tilted, bouncing, or crawling, where fully digital clusters can be a distraction or can be slow to update.

Dedicated off-road displays, pitch, roll, and compass information, for example, are not gimmicks. During our slow-speed trail driving, these indicators help drivers get a better feeling of the angles and the positioning of the vehicle, especially those new to off-roading. Steering-mounted controls and cruise control on higher variants make it better to drive on the highway, even if the Thar is not designed as a long-distance cruiser.

Bilal Firfiray summarises the approach well:
“The Thar finally gets the screen and features buyers were asking for but Mahindra has wisely not over-digitised the experience.”

The absence of wireless telephonic smartphone connectivity and a total digital cluster is noticeable on paper. Still, in real order of practice, these omissions do not affect the main purpose of the Thar. The technology here is functional, robust and appropriate for a vehicle that is more interested in the ability to handle terrain than it is in touchscreen theatre.

Mahindra Thar Boot Space & Practical Utility

Boot space has never been a great forte of the Mahindra Thar, and we confirmed it in our real-world usage that this is a compromise buyers have to live with.
With all seats in use, usable luggage space is limited and is best described as weekend bag-friendly. This is a direct consequence of the three-door configuration of the Thar, as well as a short wheelbase, both of which are deliberate design choices for off-road performance.
During our evaluation:

• Boot space with rear seats up: Suitable for small bags or soft luggage
• Boot space with rear seats folded: Approximately 600 litres
• Loading practicality: High boot lip makes lifting heavy things an effort-intensive task

Once the rear seats are folded, it does improve cargo usability, and the Thar becomes workable for adventure gear or short trips with fewer passengers.
Seshan Vijayraghavan sums it up accurately:
“The Thar is not designed around luggage. If you travel light or fold up the seats, it works. If you don't, you feel the limitation from the very beginning.”

For buyers who are planning to travel frequently with families or go to the airport, this is still one of the greatest trade-offs.

Mahindra Thar Ride, Handling & Off-Road Behaviour

The Mahindra Thar's ride and handling characteristics are dictated by the use of its ladder frame construction and off-road-oriented suspension. Moreover, in the course of our testing, we recognised that if comfort and composure at high speeds are priorities, there are better monocoque SUVs in this price bracket. The Thar's virtues are in other areas and those who want crossover-like refinement will be disappointed.

City & Highway Driving

Based on our road testing, the Thar appears to be firm and restless in urban settings. Speed breakers, potholes and uneven patches are clearly felt, reminding you of its off-road-first tuning of the suspension. The large turning radius and large stature require adaptation in tight spaces.
On highways, diesel variants are better settled at steady speeds, but body roll and lack of feedback from the steering wheels make a relaxed cruise impossible. Long drives can be done, but they are not the most comfortable. 

Seshan Vijayraghavan points out,
"You're always conscious that you're driving a ladder-frame SUV." It never masks that fact, even on smooth highways."

Off-Roading

This is where the Thar truly delivers. During controlled off-road testing, the low-range transfer case, short overhangs and 226 mm ground clearance meant that the SUV was able to tackle steep inclines and uneven terrain with confidence. Even drivers with little off-road experience found the Thar forgiving and capable.

Mahindra Thar Variants: Which One Fits Whom

Mahindra has the Thar in AXT and LXT trims, which keeps the range simple but purposeful.

AXT Variant

The AXT trim is the starting point of the Thar range and is aimed at covering the basics. It is offered in rear-wheel-drive setups for the most part and is appropriate for those who would like to have the design and road presence of the Thar without paying for complete off-road equipment.
Some of the main features of the AXT variant are:

• 16-inch steel wheels
• Body-coloured bumpers
• All-black interior with vinyl upholstery
• Height-adjustable driver seat
• Manual air conditioning
• Front power windows
• Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD
• Rear parking sensors

LXT Variant

The LXT trim is the more feature-rich and capable of the two and is the one most buyers gravitate towards. This is also where the Thar's true off-road credentials come into play.

Key upgrades in the LXT variant include:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Dual-tone bumpers
• Fabric seat upholstery
• Dead pedal (automatic variants)
• Cruise control
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs
• Steering-mounted controls
• 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Rear-view camera
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• ISOFIX child seat mounts

Bilal Firfiray's review reiterates this point, as the 2025 cabin improvements make LXT trims much more comfortable to live with on a day-to-day basis. He also pointed out that LXT does not require as many aftermarket modifications and provides a better ownership experience in the long run.

Mahindra Thar Our Recommendations
 

The best Mahindra Thar, regardless of the variant, is one that fits your use case. Do note that as of mid 2025, the soft top models have been discontinued and now the only models available in the Thar are with the hard top. 
“According to Seshan’s understanding,The Thar makes the most sense if it is selected with a clear understanding of its strengths and limitations." Pick the wrong variant and it will be uncomfortable. Pick the right one, and it does exactly what it says it does."

Best Overall Choice

LXT (RWD or 4WD): The LX is the best package you can get in the Thar lineup. It brings better safety equipment, added comfort features and a more complete cabin experience, making it a suitable lifestyle choice.

Best for Off-Road Use

LXT 4WD (Diesel or Petrol): For buyers who intend to drive off the road on a regular basis, the 4WD LX is the only sensible choice. The transfer case in the low range, strong diesel torque and strong drivetrain make the Thar deal with difficult terrain confidently and consistently.

Best for City Use and Lower Budget

AXT RWD (Diesel): In case the Thar is being purchased for its design and road presence, the rear wheel drive configuration of the AXT RWD does the job. It is best suited for urban driving and occasional highway driving.

Engine and Gearbox Tips 

• Diesel is better for long-distance efficiency
• Automatic options are suitable for city traffic and relaxed driving
• Manual Trims offer more control to enthusiasts, but the gearbox can be clunky 

Mahindra Thar Competitors

The Thar sits in a niche segment, but it does have competition from a few focused rivals, all with different approaches. 

Maruti Suzuki Jimny

According to the Thar vs Jimny review presented by Shams Raza Naqvi, Jimny is more compact and easier to live with on a daily basis. It offers better ride comfort, a more practical rear seat, and a lower entry price. However, it lacks the Thar's engine performance, diesel option and overall road presence. Hence, it is less attractive among buyers looking for power and visual impact.

Force Gurkha (five-door)

The Gurkha has excellent off-road credentials and more interior space, particularly in its five-door form. That said, it feels dated inside, lacks modern features, and is not as refined or versatile as Thar for mixed usage.

Mahindra Thar Roxx

The Thar Roxx overcomes many of the limitations of the three-door Thar, with improved access to the rear seats, increased space and additional features. It is more suited for family use and sits at a higher price.

How the three-door Thar Stands Out?

What the three-door Thar does have is a combination of mechanical credibility and broad appeal. Unlike the Jimny, it has both petrol and diesel engines and rear-wheel and four-wheel drives. Compared to the Gurkha, it brings a balance in terms of off-road hardware, better everyday usability and a cabin that is more modern.

And although the Thar Roxx has better working practicality, the shorter wheelbase and condensed proportions of the three-door Thar make it much more purpose-built and trail-focused. In simple terms, the three-door Thar brings a combination of accessibility, torque and visual dominance, in a way that its rivals try to do but not quite.

Thar vs Rivals Head-to-Head Comparison

Which off-road capable SUV  should you choose?

• Choose the Mahindra Thar if off-road capability, torque and presence on the road are more important than rear seat comfort.
• Choose the Jimny if you want a compact and easier to live with off-roader with better access to the rear, and less running stress.
• Choose the Gurkha if your priority is hardcore off-roading and interior space and you are ready to compromise on refinement and features.
• Choose the Thar Roxx if you like the character of the Thar, but need better practicality and usability for the family.