Mahindra Thar Review & Pictures


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Mahindra Thar Review Synopsis: Mahindra Thar price tag is between Rs.7.69 Lakh (Ex.showroom, Delhi). It officially launched in India on 4th October 2010.

Mahindra and Mahindra, an Indian automobile manufacturer which has earned a lot of reputation in the commercial segment has now eventually won the hearts of many with passenger vehicles such as Scorpio and Xylo. Of late, Mahindra is trying best to foray into the global auto scene with its upcoming W201 SUV and some exciting pick up trucks. This auto manufacturer always directly finds a gap in the automotive industryand& positions their car with a bang. This time with Thar, Mahindra has it hands on untouched class in India. The Thar is all about off-roading, it is an extra ordinary machine that any ordinary person can buy. This segment was undoubtedly conquered by Maruti Gypsy since long time but now with the new entry of Thar, we can see some serious competition. The Automotive India vroom in to checkout if the Thar is capable to stay ahead in the league.
 
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Mahindra Thar Looks and Design

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As the name itself suggests, Mahindra Thar has the grunt and command in whichever angle you look at. With traditional round headlamps and horizontal dual split grill, you may wonder whether it belongs to this era. This is because of the reason being that Mahindra Thar has genes from its predecessor and company really wants to stay unique amongst the crowd, so they didn’t take moves to make Thar futuristically styled. Look at the indicators with reflectors which were designed almost 3 decades back! Typical wording fonts and styling of “Mahindra” has been embossed just below the windshield to give meaner looks to this Jeep. Also closely notice the clamps on the hood that we have seen in 80’s model of Jeeps. In fact, the windshield is pretty small and the Wipers too are matched for them. You can even glide down the windshield if you need more adventure. Typical black metal bumpers even have Mahindra logo embossed on them.

Moving on to side, all you can notice on Thar is its pure ruggedness, with a very lengthy hood occupying 35% of the car, there is 20% for the driver's cabin and remaining for the rear bench people. The front and rear wheel arches are placed too high to avoid any contacts with rocks and potholes. Also, the indicators are place on fender above front wheels. The front door looks very small and disproportionate when compared to the overall styling. OVRM is too long, but doesn't have the width it requires to provide clear enough visibility. There are foot steps to climb on to Thar, Fuel tank lid is still manual and Mahindra has avoided using any electronic gadgets inside this car. The Thar floats on R16 235/70 Bridgestone Dueller Tires. Front cabin comes with hardtop and rear has soft top to provide a ‘real’ exciting adventure whenever you are in game for it. All that is visible from rear is big sheet of tarpaulin and a huge tire in the middle. The door handle is pretty basic and too plasticky which will risk it in case a something speedily hits at the back. Typical tri-split rear lights take its default corner position with round reflectors just below it. There is a foor step to climb into the rear seat. And due to this the number plate has been moved to the side.


Mahindra-Thar-Rear-View.jpg
 
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Mahindra Thar Interiors and Comfort

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In the recent period, we have seen cars and SUVs offering premium luxury standards. However, Thar takes a huge leap and differs from the usual style statement. Simply open the door, with all mechanical noises, the door opens extra wide, so step programming involved to control the door movement. Also, notice a piece of black band which is attached to control the door opening (!). You will literally need to climb up to get into Thar, may be you can also use a ladder for convenience to step in. Now close the door to hear the “Thud” which breaks the silence inside the other car parked by side. You can feel a raw as well as rugged comfort in after getting in. The windshield is small in size, but that doesn't affect the views by any means. Also, the “A” pillar is too small mainly because of which obviously, the Thar can be called as zero blind spot car.

Quality of plastics used in the car is not on par with the current trend but considering Thar as off roader, you will be quite okay with it and soon get used to. As we stated previously, No electronic / automatics inside the Thar are on offer because luxury is not something this car is meant for. Thus, we prefer it this way. This Jeep has manual roll up, roll down type of windows. And front seats doesn't have height adjustment, may be due to higher stance they would have avoided it. Comfort level of the seat is also okay considering the material used but thigh support is shorter which makes longer drives uncomfortable. The three spoke steering is nice to hold and M&M logo has been embossed in the middle. Honk pads have been given for the entire three spoke pads which is useful nice touch. Instrumentation console is too basic which does have a fuel indicator, temperature, Speedo, Odometer & Tachometer. Hey, don’t expect any DIS in Thar! Even opening the hood needs a good amount of effort. You gotta twist and pull the lever manually to release lock for the hoods. Then move out release the clamps to open it. All the pedals (gas, break & clutch) are pretty small in size, and they are well placed for average adults. But any 6 footers with 11" shoes will easily press 2 pedals at once / No provision of dead pedal either, even clutch pedal is placed in an uncomfortable zone which always obstructs the legs. Absence of Arm rests is highly felt in the Thar. Since the driver & co-driver seat is placed at both extreme ends, there is a huge gap in between which could have been used for Arm rest. Handbrake lever is buried too low indeed; you can use it in case of emergency or in the move. Gear knob is placed far away from hands; so much that even co-driver can operate if you are bored, just in case (Pun intended). There are Manual gears for 4X4 mode, 2-HI, 4-HI, 4-LO & Neutral.

The centre console is again very basic. All you can see is just two rotary controls for fan & heater. Yes, you read that right. You don’t have AC in Thar as standard. It’s only additional equipment. AC vents are well positioned and can be adjusted to increase flow inside cabin. Glove box is small; you can keep a RC book & few other documents only, that’s it. Single DIN provision for audio units takes its place at the lowest level. Since Thar is targeted on young men, vanity mirror has not been provided, making Mahindra to save a lot by cost cutting items. Jump onto the rear bench, it’s just flat rows on opposite side like sleeper class train. Don’t expect any comfort out of these seats. Yet again, keep in mind that the Thar is a pure adventure SUV and not a luxury one definitely.

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Mahindra Thar Engine and Gearbox

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Open the hood of Thar and you will be surprised to see a 2498 CC Turbocharged Intercooled engine. This Engine is CRDe that comes with BS IV standard for the latest emission norms. The Thar provides the right power to make you feel comfortable almost all times. Yes, you have 105bhp (77.23kW) of power unleashed from the 2498 CC engine. Torque figures are really good touching 247 Nm @ 1800-2000 rpm.

Just crank the engine; you will be into shake for few seconds as prelims for the true off-roading. Engine noise is neither too nigh nor too low. Considering the size of engine & the specs, Noise is quite okay & this is what you need for naked machine like Thar. Vibration level of Thar is always too high. Thar's engine is mated with five Speeds - Manual Gear box and also with Borg Warner - Manual Shift with 2 Speed gear reduction-HIGH 1.0:1, LOW 2.48:1 for 4X4. Slotting in the gears might be a tough task for sometime until you are used to it. Slot in the first gear, Move the Thar on road, you get a decent command on road with this beast. Steering is pretty light even at 10kmph, considering weight of Thar; it is really easy to manoeuvre in the City. Gearing ratios are really good that you can drive at 30kmph @ 4th gear. But there is a noticeable turbo lag until the tachometer touches 2000rpm mark. This could get disgusting for some time, but once it reaches 2000rpm, you are ready to splurge into action. Not all cars on road ever dare to race with you and simply leave the way without questioning further.

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Mahindra Thar Performance and Safety

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When it comes to performance, Thar is not big daddy on Tarmac, but king on off-roads! Mahindra has concentrated more on the City Drivability and therefore enhanced its driving appeal to greater extent. Thar Manages to take any sharp turns with its pretty light steering. We tried to push Thar until 100kmph from Zero and what we could infer from our Timers are that Thar is not meant for speed. Yup, Thar made 0-100kmph in 17+ seconds. Further burying the gas pedal, we managed to reach top whack speed of 130kmph on the Speedometer. Frankly speaking, Thar's Steering wheel is not well weighted, which translates to “you will not be comfortable driving Thar at any speed greater than 80kmph”. Steering goes ultra light on High speed making the overall drive scarier than ever & you jump up and down even on a medium sized pothole. May be its just to give real off-roading pleasure. Body roll was evidently on the higher side and cornering abilities at any speeds greater than 70kmph is on the riskier side.

Mahindra Thar is equipped with ladder frame chassis which connects its front wheels with Independent Front Suspension with Torsion & Stabiliser Bar & Rear wheels with semi elliptical leaf springs with tension sides shot penned for pure off-roading. Front Axle of Thar is full floating hypoid with ratio of 4.3:1 and it can handle capacity up to 1100 kg whereas the rear axle is semi floating hypoid with ratio of 4.3:1 and can handle capacity up to 1700 kg. Mahindra has improved in providing Auto Hub lock instead of the old gen Manual ones. Thar always stands on the first floor; it has a massive ground clearance of 200mm which can almost take any terrains. This car has an amazing approach angle of 46 Degrees & Departure angle of 30 Degrees. Brakes on Thar are not excellent though, its okay, this is basically due to the weight of car. The 4X4 Variant weighs 1750 kgs and equipped with 113 mm Discs & Calipers in the Front, along with 297mm drums at the Rear. The shoes of Thar are just Massive and adequate to conquer almost anything. It comes with 235/70 R 16 Tubeless Tires and 6.5 J X 16 Inch wheel for greater sustainability. You have a greater wheelbase of 2430mm for extended fun off road. Now if it’s about Safety, Thar goes bare. There is not even a single safety feature like ABS, EBD, and Air Bags on Thar, but considering the Price bracket and target audience, Mahindra has offered an excellent product on hand.

• Tough steel body for extended durability.
• LSPV brakes aids in preventing wheel lock up and loss of control.
• Powerful 9" booster with disc brakes in front and drum in rear.
• 4wd high / low ratio for superior all weather and terrain traction.

The Off Roader
The Automotive India tried to put Thar on almost all terrains ranging from Tarmac, gravel, sand, rocks and beaches. We are really wowed by the traction control mechanism of the Thar. It behaves in really a mature way and mesmerizes you undoubtedly. We pushed the Thar on angles up to 40 Degrees on the worst roads and stretches of ECR beaches. The ride was really mature and the power ratio was excellently delivered to all the wheels. Only wet Sand is somewhat tough for Thar. However, it is important to note that there was some mechanical issue with the vehicle we road tested. May be that could be the reason. The car struggled for a few hours to back on roads from beach.

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Mahindra Thar Fuel Efficiency and Verdict

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Mahindra Thar is not extremely Fuel efficient, but of course, that is not basically, what it is meant to be. The large tank full of size of 60 Litres is capable to driven for almost 650 Kilometers on a stretch with 2WD mode switched on, although with 4WD engaged, Thar intends to become a bit thirstier. Overall, lastly in No Man's territory, Mahindra invaded with its perfect robust vehicle which can conquer anything on & off-road. If you are looking for ruggedness, command and wish to achieve anything with your Car, Then Thar is your only destiny. Take it to Ladakh or the Mall nearby, Not only it will guarantee you the promise of travelling on all terrains easily but attracts a few eyeballs too. And remember, that’s only the bonus which you get.
 
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Mahindra Thar Likes, Dislikes and Ratings

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We Like in Mahindra Thar [thumbsup]



  • Absolutely Reasonable Pricing

  • Excellent Exterior Build Quality

  • Superior Off Roading Capability

  • The Real Jeep in Clothing of MM540

  • Excellent Approach and Departure Angles

  • Fully Customizable and Soft top adds fun

  • Small Turning Radius of 5.25MM Like Normal Car

We Dislike in Mahindra Thar [thumbsdown]

  • Cheap Plastic Quality

  • Lacks Electronic & Tech Savvy Gadgets

  • High Speed Stability & Ultra Light Steering

  • Low Under Thigh Support on Front seats & flat bench in rear

The Automotive India Star Ratings


  • Design and Quality:
    (7.5/10)

  • Comfort Levels:
    (6/10)

  • Performance:
    (8/10)

  • Ride Quality:
    (6.5/10)

  • Handling:
    (7/10)

  • Fuel Efficiency:
    (7.5/10)

  • Safety:
    (5/10)

  • After Sales Service:
    (7/10)

  • Off Roading Capabilities:
    (9/10)

  • Value For Money:
    (9/10)
 
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Mahindra Thar Price and Specifications

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Price:


  • DI3.0: Rs.4.77 Lakhs
  • CRDe: Rs.6.05 Lakhs
Dimensions:

  • Overall Length (mm): 3920
  • Overall Width (mm): 1710
  • Wheel Base (mm): 2430
  • Overall Height (mm): 1930
  • Ground Clearance (mm): 2000
  • Gross Vehicle Weight (kg): 1750
  • No of Doors: 3
  • Fuel Tank Capacity (liter): 60
Engine:

  • Type: NEF CRDe Turbocharged Intercooled
  • Displacement: 2498cc
  • Power: 105PS
  • Torque: 247Nm
  • Fuel: Diesel
Transmission:

  • 5 Speed Manual
Suspension:

  • Front: Independent Front Suspension with Torsion & Stabiliser Bar
  • Rear: Semi elliptical leaf springs with tension sides shot penned

Steering Type:

  • Power Steering
Brakes:

  • Front: 113 mm Disc
  • Rear: 279 mm Drum
Wheels and Tires:

  • Wheel: Steel
  • Tires: 235/70 R 16
Color Options:

  • Mist Silver
  • Fiery Black
  • Rocky Beige
  • Toreador Red
*(Details mentioned of Mahindra Thar CRDe)
 
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Re: Mahindra Thar Exclusive Road Test Review

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Road Test Credits

  • Road Test & Photography: Zinam
  • Edit & Format: 350Z
(C) The Automotive India. All rights reserved. Our content such as reviews, images etc. can not be reproduced in any form without written permission of our authority.
 

350Z

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Re: Mahindra Thar (Off) Road Test Review

Note: Mahindra Thar (Off) Road Test Now Online. :smile:

Drive Safe,
350Z
 
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Re: Mahindra Thar (Off) Road Test Review

Excellent write up Zinam[thumbsup]. I am not a big fan of Thar's look but your pictures have definitely made me rethink.
Overall Thar is definitely a VFM off roader but i have liked atleast some safety features. The ijnteriors are nothing to talk about, but nonetheless, to me for the price Thar is being offered, they are fine.
 
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Re: Mahindra Thar (Off) Road Test Review

Thanks Akash!!

Exactly, Thar is definitely an perfect VFM Off Roader which can literally take over anything you want.

Just few things which M&M could have concentrated can be some safety features & quality interiors.
 
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Re: Mahindra Thar (Off) Road Test Review

Awesome review Zinam. [thumbsup]

Absolutely loved the classic look of the Thar.

Thar should give the Gypsy some sleepless nights.
 
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Re: Ford ikon 1.6 SXi Test Drive (Highlight: FE 22.6 Kmpl!)

mahindra had been truly a enthusiastic producer .

they have a segment of their own from the begining , their cars never fail to impress anyone .

There are hell lot of people still love mm540 , and huge number of them modify them to their taste.

this THAR is really a great jeep to own up. toughness of mahindra , new generation engine tech , sheer power ! etc etc .

Hope Zinam had a great time with that!
 
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