Full expert breakdown
The Mahindra Thar is a lifestyle SUV known for its rugged design, strong off-road capability and go-anywhere character. The 2026 Thar is available with petrol and diesel engine options, along with RWD and 4WD configurations. Prices for the latest Thar range start at ₹10.32 lakh ex-showroom.
Engine and Performance
The Mahindra Thar is offered with three engine options. The 1.5-litre diesel engine produces around 118 bhp and is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox and RWD. The larger 2.2-litre diesel engine develops up to 150 bhp and 330 Nm, while the 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine produces around 150 bhp and up to 320 Nm, depending on the transmission. The 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre petrol engines are available with both manual and automatic transmissions, with 4WD offered on selected variants.
The Thar's 4WD variants are designed for challenging terrain and feature an electronic locking differential and dedicated Mud, Sand and Snow terrain modes on the latest Thar OG.
Exterior Design
The Mahindra Thar retains its distinctive three-door lifestyle SUV design with a boxy silhouette, upright stance and rugged body styling. The latest version features a refreshed grille, dual-tone bumpers, LED lighting and alloy-wheel options on higher variants. The Thar measures 3,995 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width and around 1,855 mm in height, with a 2,450 mm wheelbase and 226 mm ground clearance.
For off-road driving, the Thar offers a 41.2-degree approach angle, 36-degree departure angle, 26.2-degree ramp-over angle and up to 650 mm water-wading capability.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Thar combines its rugged character with features aimed at everyday usability. Depending on the variant, it gets fabric or leatherette upholstery, a height-adjustable driver seat, rear AC vents, a sliding armrest and door-mounted power-window switches. The latest Thar also features a refreshed dashboard design and improved cabin convenience.
Features and Technology
Higher variants of the Mahindra Thar come equipped with a 26.03 cm HD touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, electrically adjustable ORVMs, cruise control, rear-view camera and Adventure Stats Gen II. The system can display information such as altitude, outside temperature, trip data, steering direction and other off-road statistics.
Safety
Safety features include ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Program with rollover mitigation, rear parking sensors and airbags. The latest Thar OG adds six airbags, front parking sensors and four-wheel disc brakes on higher variants, along with an ESP 9.3 safety suite.
Dimensions and Practicality
The Mahindra Thar measures 3,995 mm long, 1,870 mm wide and approximately 1,855 mm tall, with a 2,450 mm wheelbase. Its 226 mm ground clearance helps it handle rough surfaces, while the 41.2-degree approach angle and 36-degree departure angle support its off-road capability. Fuel-tank capacity varies by engine, with the 1.5-litre diesel using a 45-litre tank and the larger petrol and diesel engines getting a 57-litre tank.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar continues to combine a distinctive lifestyle-SUV design with capable engines, high ground clearance and serious off-road hardware. With multiple petrol and diesel options, manual and automatic transmissions, and both RWD and 4WD configurations, the Thar caters to buyers looking for a rugged SUV that can also be used for everyday driving.
