Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel

Hey gearheads and car enthusiasts! Choosing a new car in India is always an exciting, yet challenging journey. You're probably juggling thoughts about budget, safety features, monthly maintenance costs, the latest tech, and of course, how reliable the company's service network is. Well, what if we told you there's a new player in town that promises to stir things up, offering that iconic appeal without breaking the bank? We're talking about the new Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel, a variant designed to bring the legendary Thar experience to a wider audience. If you've been dreaming of owning a Thar but felt the 4x4 was a bit overkill for your daily city drives and occasional adventure, then this RWD Diesel variant might just be your perfect match. Let's dive deep into what makes this new Thar tick.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel comes with a robust and efficient engine, perfect for both city commutes and highway cruising. It's designed to offer a good balance of power and fuel economy for a vehicle of its stature.

• Engine Type: 1.5L D117 CRDe Diesel Engine
• Displacement: 1497 cc
• Max Power: 117 PS (approximately 115 bhp) at 3500 rpm
• Max Torque: 300 Nm between 1750-2500 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual

Design Overview

The Thar's design is its biggest USP, and the ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel variant retains that unmistakable appeal. It's a head-turner, no doubt.

• Exterior Design:

  The RWD Thar keeps its iconic, rugged silhouette that has made it a favorite. You get that signature seven-slat grille, round headlights, and flared wheel arches that scream adventure. The bold stance and high ground clearance remain, ensuring it has an impressive road presence. The RWD variant also sports some subtle badges to distinguish it, while offering steel or alloy wheel options depending on the exact trim, contributing to its strong, muscular look.

• Interior Design:

  Inside, the Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel offers a practical and no-nonsense cabin. It focuses on durability and functionality, ideal for those who love an active lifestyle. While it might not be plush, it's comfortable for four occupants. You'll find an all-black theme, a functional dashboard layout, and a focus on essential features that make every drive enjoyable.

Key Features

The AX3L variant balances essential features with the Thar's core rugged appeal.

• Infotainment System: 7-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
• Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, USB, Bluetooth
• Steering Wheel: Multi-function steering wheel with audio and call controls
• Safety & Convenience: Reverse Parking Sensors, Manual AC
• Other Highlights: Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Cruise Control

Note: Features like 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and automatic climate control are typically not available on this specific variant of the Thar. The Thar also does not come with a traditional sunroof, instead offering removable roof panels for an open-air experience.

What is the Ground Clearance of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel?

• Ground Clearance: 226 mm (Unladen) – excellent for tackling rough roads and mild off-roading.

What is the Boot Space of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel?

• Boot Space: The Thar has a very minimal boot space (approximately 60-70 liters) with all seats up, primarily designed for a couple of soft bags. It's not its strong suit for luggage-heavy trips, but the rear seats can be folded for more cargo room if needed.

What are the Dimensions of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel?

• Length: 3985 mm
• Width: 1820 mm
• Height: 1850 mm (Soft Top) / 1896 mm (Hard Top)
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

While our focus is on the Diesel RWD, it's good to know Mahindra offers choices. The Thar RWD lineup also includes a 2.0L mStallion 150 TGDi Petrol engine with an automatic transmission, catering to different preferences. The 1.5L Diesel with manual transmission is specifically targeted at buyers looking for an efficient and accessible entry into the Thar lifestyle.

Safety Features

Mahindra has equipped the Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel with a commendable set of safety features to ensure peace of mind for its occupants.

• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Traction Control System
• Hill Hold Control
• Hill Descent Control
• Roll-over Mitigation
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts

NCAP Rating Table

The Mahindra Thar has proven its mettle in safety assessments.

Rating Body	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP	4 Stars	4 Stars
Bharat NCAP	Rating Awaited	Rating Awaited

Note: The Global NCAP rating applies to the standard Mahindra Thar, which shares its robust platform and safety structure with the RWD variants. We expect similar strong performance from the RWD models.

Rivals of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel

In the Indian market, the Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel primarily competes with:

• Maruti Suzuki Jimny (5-door, 4x4 only)
• Force Gurkha (3-door/5-door, 4x4 only)
• And to some extent, premium sub-compact SUVs like Tata Nexon, Kia Sonet, Hyundai Venue, for those looking for a stylish urban SUV.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let's break down the real-world appeal of the Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel.

Pros:

• Iconic Design & Road Presence: The Thar's rugged and unique styling is a massive draw, turning heads wherever it goes.
• Affordable Entry into Thar Life: The RWD variant makes owning a Thar more accessible and budget-friendly for many.
• Capable Diesel Engine: The 1.5L Diesel engine offers good torque for city driving and highway cruising, along with decent fuel efficiency.
• High Ground Clearance: With 226mm, it effortlessly tackles bad roads, speed breakers, and light off-road trails.
• Strong Safety Package: A 4-star Global NCAP rating and standard safety features instill confidence.
• Maneuverability: Being RWD, it offers a surprisingly tight turning radius, making it easier to navigate urban spaces.

Cons:

• Limited Rear Seat Access: Entry and exit for rear passengers can be a bit cumbersome, especially for elders.
• Minimal Boot Space: Don't expect to carry much luggage with all seats in use. It's more suited for small bags or if the rear seats are folded.
• Ride Quality: While improved, the ladder-frame chassis can still result in a bouncy ride over uneven surfaces, especially for rear passengers.
• Features List: Being an entry-to-mid-level trim, it misses out on some premium features found in higher-end SUVs (e.g., ventilated seats, automatic climate control, 360-degree camera).
• Practicality for Families: As a primary family car, its 2-door layout and limited rear space might be a deal-breaker for some.

Conclusion

The Mahindra Thar ROXX AX3L RWD Diesel is more than just a car; it's a statement. It successfully brings the allure of the legendary Thar to a wider audience, especially those who appreciate its style and capability without needing hardcore 4x4 prowess. If your car-buying considerations include an attractive budget, a strong safety record, a capable diesel engine for daily drives, and a unique lifestyle appeal, then this RWD Thar deserves a serious look. It’s an ideal choice for individuals or young couples looking for a distinctive and fun vehicle that stands out from the crowd. While it has its quirks in terms of practicality, its charm and robust character are undeniable. Head to your nearest Mahindra dealership, take it for a spin, and see if this new Thar RWD Diesel truly ROXX your world!