Mahindra Thar 2WD Petrol Automatic Review

Mahindra Thar 2WD

Mahindra has launched the 2WD version of the Thar SUV, having initial pricing ranging from Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). A new 1.5-liter diesel engine and two new colours are included in the model's new entry-level edition, which comes in three variations. Only the first 10,000 reservations will be eligible for the new SUV's introductory prices, and deliveries started on January 14th. With the Mahindra Thar 2WD's exterior, two new colors-Blazing Bronze and Everest White-are now offered. These colours are an addition to the previously offered choices, comprising Red Rage, Galaxy Grey, Napoli Black, & Aqua Marine. The 2WD Thar is similar to the 4WD variant save for the removal of the 4x4 badging from the rear fender.

The similar 2.0-liter mStallion turbo-petrol engine, which generates 150 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque, power the Mahindra Thar 2WD variants. It only be mated with a six-speed automatic gearbox. On the other hand, the diesel engine, which has a 1.5-liter engine and a six-speed manual transmission, produces 117 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. The interior of the RWD Thar is largely unaltered from the 4WD variants, with one exception of the 4x4 transmission lever, which is swapped out for a small storage space.

The electronic brake locking differential (EBLD) is now required on the 4WD variants of the Mahindra Thar, even if the mechanical locking differential (MLD) remains an option for the LX Diesel 4WD trims of the vehicle. All Thar models are also eligible for accessory packs from the automaker, which come with additional unique accessories, style packs, and front and rear armrests.

Mahindra 2WD Thar Review

There are numerous firsts in the current Mahindra Thar. In addition to having a petrol engine and an automatic gearbox, it offers several creature comforts that the previous generation Thar could only hope for. It was purchased as a go-anywhere lifestyle car but was later classified as a "pavement princess." Except for a small number of purists, very few Thars have ever been driven to the limits of their off-road ability. For everyone else, there is the Thar 2WD.

First off, it is more reasonable than the 4WD variant, coming in at approximately Rs 2.33 lakh less expensive in this petrol-automatic hardtop configuration. Second, the Thar 2WD is a good option for people who don't require their Thar to be a serious off-roader and will just use it for commuting in cities, travelling on highways, and a very small number of adventures where there are no roads. However, there are now only three variations and two engine choices available. There isn't a 4x4 badge visible on the back three-quarters. Additionally, two new colour possibilities have been added: Blazing Bronze, as shown in these shots, and Everest White, which ought to look intriguing in the flesh.

Interiors of Mahindra Thar

Once inside the Thar RWD, the major difference is the absence of the short low-range gear stick that usually rests next to the gear lever. The space that was vacated has been cleverly transformed into a cubby hole that comfortably fits my 6.7-inch smartphone. However, there are a few minor adjustments that will only be apparent to individuals who have previously spent an extensive amount of time in the new Thar.

These minor adjustments include the removal of one Type-A USB port (there were formerly two). The engine start-stop button is relocated to the panel in place of the traction control & hill descent control buttons from the right side of the steering. The MID has also seen some adjustments, and it no longer shows the 2H/4H/4L. Similar to the off-road display, the 'Adventure' app on the infotainment system does not have an off-road display, but it does provide some 'rough road' statistics, including roll and pitch angles in addition to a compass as well as the steering angle.

The remaining part of the interior is identical to that in the 4x4 variant, aside from this. You are in the same dominant position, towering over the other drivers on the road. The upright windscreen and big mirrors provide a good vision of the entire vehicle. Then, because of the restricted seat base and expanded bolsters, the seat comfort left me wanting more. Similar to how the backrest could have offered more support at the top, prolonged sitting can lead to shoulder pain, something I personally experienced in the Mahindra Adventure Royal Escape.

The head & shoulder room is more than adequate, which is a plus. If you're going to be riding in the back seat for a prolonged period of time, the seat reclines, which is a welcome relief for rear passengers. However, because there isn't enough thigh support or foot space, taller people would still struggle to feel comfortable. Before folding the back seats, the boot may accommodate a handful of compact carry-ons.

Features

Regarding features, the new 2WD Thar includes a seven-inch touchscreen multimedia device with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, six speakers, an auto start-stop feature, cruise control, motorized ORVMs, and remote central locking. Regarding safety, the vehicle has a hill assist, dual airbags, and anti-lock braking with EBD, ESP, and ISOFIX. The GNCAP test gave this Thar four stars as well. Having said that, the experience might have been improved by adding a few more practical amenities for this update, such as wireless charging, armrests, a dead pedal for the driver, and some creature comforts for the rear passengers.

Customers have already experienced the 2.0-liter mStallion engine in the Thar and found it smooth, vibration-free, and powerful. The four-cylinder power in this RWD incarnation remains at 150 bhp and 320 Nm, and the six-speed torque converter (currently the only available transmission) hasn't undergone any alterations either. This indicates that the power delivery maintains its smoothness and linearity while providing adequate grunt from the start.

Thar Inspiration and Debut in Indian Market (4x4)

The Indian automaker Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. produces the Mahindra Thar, a four-wheel-drive off-road SUV. The Mahindra Legend, which was modelled on the Mahindra MM540, a car that had been manufactured in India since the 1980s, was updated to become the Mahindra Legend in 2010, and this is when the Thar was first unveiled.

The Mahindra Thar was built as a vehicle designed for off-roading that could withstand the challenging terrain prevalent in many areas of India. It was intended to be tough, dependable, and reasonably priced. The Jeep CJ series, which Mahindra produced under license starting in the 1940s, served as the inspiration for the Thar's design. On August 15, 2020, the second-generation Thar was introduced. Sales of the off-roader began in October 2020. It has two engine choices: a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a 2.2-liter diesel engine. Both come with a choice of a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. Customers have a choice between a hard top, a soft top, as well as soft top that comes with a convertible-like sliding-down mechanism.

About Mahindra Limited

A global Indian automotive manufacturing firm headquartered in Mumbai is Mahindra & Mahindra Limited (M&M). Mahindra & Mohammed, the company's original name, was replaced with Mahindra & Mahindra after its establishment in 1945. One of the biggest car producers in India by production is M&M, which is an entity of the Mahindra Group. One of its divisions, Mahindra Tractors, is the largest tractor manufacturer in the world in terms of volume. It was ranked 17th among the best companies in India by Fortune India 500 in 2018. Two of its main competitors in the Indian market are Tata Motors & Maruti Suzuki.

Later, they decided that producing and marketing larger MUVs would be a profitable expansion, so they began constructing Willys Jeep-licensed vehicles in India. M&M soon became the Jeep producer in India and started producing agricultural tractors and light commercial vehicles (LCVs).

Thar 2WD Rivals in the Market

The Thar 2WD is designed for buyers who want a Thar but are less enthusiastic to use it off-road. Although the SUV currently lacks a direct competitor, the more expensive Thar 4WD competes against vehicles like the Force Gurkha and the all-new arrival Maruti Jimny, which is already in the Indian market as a cut-throat rival to Mahindra Thar 2WD launched in the mid of 2023.

Thar 2WD Waiting Period

The maximum waiting period for the Thar 2WD fuel is three months. A far longer wait is required for the Thar 2WD diesel, which in some cities can last 16-18 months. For both the petrol and diesel models of the Thar 4x4, waiting times might reach three months.

Considering that the Thar 4X2 diesel is now the cheapest model in the Thar line-up, it is not surprising that it is experiencing strong demand. The 2WD diesel is the only Thar variation that qualifies for the tax advantages of a vehicle under 4 metres in length, which helps save a significant amount of money. It also has an engine capacity of fewer than 1.5 litres. For comparison, the price gap between the diesel-MT AXE (O) and LX models' 4X2 & 4X4 versions is Rs. 4.17 lakh and Rs. Naturally, a portion of it can also be caused by the lack of a 4x4 system.

Additionally, several customers have converted their reservations from the older 4X4 models to the new 4X2 versions. The Thar 4X2 is designed for customers who wish to own a Thar but aren't as eager to use it off-road; they actually intend to use it more frequently in cities or on highways. Additionally, this eventually assist in reducing the 4X4 variations' waiting times. In addition to being lighter and more fuel-efficient than the 4WD, the Thar 2WD is going to be better suited for city driving because of these factors.