Mahindra Thar ROXX AX5L RWD Diesel AT

Buying a new car is always exciting, but it comes with so many questions, right? Is it within my budget? Will it keep my family safe? What about the monthly fuel and maintenance costs? Does it have all the latest features I want? And can I trust the company's service? These are all important things to consider before you drive home your dream machine. Today, we are going to take a deep dive into one such exciting option that is making waves in the Indian market: the new Mahindra Thar ROXX AX5L RWD Diesel AT. Let's find out if this lifestyle SUV ticks all your boxes.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

• Engine Type: 1.5L D117 mHawk Diesel Engine
• Displacement: 1497 cc
• Max Power: 117 bhp at 3500 rpm
• Max Torque: 300 Nm at 1750-3000 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Automatic (AT)

Design Overview

The Mahindra Thar ROXX AX5L RWD Diesel AT carries forward the iconic, rugged design that has made the Thar a sensation.

• Exterior: It retains that muscular, go-anywhere stance with its signature vertical slat grille, round headlamps, and chunky wheel arches. The ROXX AX5L RWD variant, while lacking the 4x4 badging, still exudes immense road presence and adventure. It's a head-turner, no doubt. The hardtop version offers a secure and comfortable cabin.
• Interior: Inside, the Thar offers a modern yet practical cabin. While it maintains its utilitarian roots, the AX5L trim brings in more comfort and tech. You get a well-laid-out dashboard, comfortable seating for four, and an overall robust feel that assures you it's built for adventures.

Key Features

The AX5L variant of the Mahindra Thar RWD Diesel AT comes packed with features to enhance your driving experience:

• Infotainment System: 7-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
• Connectivity: Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wired)
• Driver Information: Multi-information display in the instrument cluster
• Convenience: Steering-mounted controls, Cruise Control, Power Windows
• Comfort: Manual AC, Electrically adjustable ORVMs (Outside Rear View Mirrors)
• Utility: USB charging ports, Follow-me-home headlamps

Ground Clearance

• The Mahindra Thar ROXX AX5L RWD Diesel AT boasts an impressive 200 mm of ground clearance, perfect for tackling rough Indian roads and mild off-road trails.

Boot Space

• With all seats in place, the Thar offers a modest ~150-200 litres of boot space. While not massive, it's enough for a weekend bag or a few groceries. For larger luggage, the rear seats can be folded.

Dimensions

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

Powertrain Options (Thar RWD lineup)

While we are focusing on the Diesel AT, the Mahindra Thar RWD is also available with other engine-transmission combinations:

• 1.5L D117 mHawk Diesel Engine: Available with a 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic transmission. (The ROXX AX5L we are discussing is the Diesel Automatic variant)
• 2.0L mStallion TGDi Petrol Engine: Available with a 6-speed Manual or 6-speed Automatic transmission.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority, and the Mahindra Thar comes equipped with essential features:

• Dual Airbags (Driver and Passenger)
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Roll-over Mitigation
• ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Seat Belt Reminder

NCAP Rating Table

Understanding a car's safety rating is crucial:

Note: The Global NCAP rating was awarded to the 4x4 variant of the Mahindra Thar. Given the shared platform and structural integrity, this rating is generally indicative of the RWD variants' safety performance.

Rivals of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX5L RWD Diesel AT

In the Indian market, the Mahindra Thar RWD competes directly with:

• Maruti Suzuki Jimny: The closest direct competitor, also a lifestyle off-roader (though Jimny is 4x4 only).

Indirectly, it might be considered by buyers looking at robust compact SUVs in a similar price bracket, seeking a unique design and driving experience, but it truly stands in a league of its own as a lifestyle RWD SUV.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Advantages

• Iconic Design & Road Presence: Instantly recognizable and commands attention wherever it goes.
• Refined Diesel Engine: The 1.5L mHawk diesel is surprisingly peppy and fuel-efficient for its size, making it a good daily driver.
• Automatic Transmission: The 6-speed AT offers great convenience in city traffic and on highways.
• Capable for Mild Adventures: Even the RWD variant, with its high ground clearance, can handle broken roads, rural trails, and light off-roading with ease.
• Mahindra's Service Network: Wide and reliable service network across India.
• Value for Money: The RWD variants make the Thar experience much more accessible.
• Fun-to-Drive: Offers a unique, engaging driving experience unlike traditional SUVs.

Disadvantages

• Limited Practicality: As a 2-door, 4-seater vehicle, rear-seat access is challenging, and boot space is minimal. Not ideal as a primary family car.
• Ride Quality: While improved, the ride can still be a bit bouncy over undulations, especially at lower speeds.
• Interior Features: While the AX5L offers decent features, it might feel basic compared to feature-loaded compact SUVs in the same price range.
• Rear Seat Comfort: The rear seats, though comfortable for short distances, can feel cramped on longer journeys.

Conclusion

The Mahindra Thar ROXX AX5L RWD Diesel AT is more than just an SUV; it's a statement, a lifestyle choice. If you are looking for a vehicle that stands out, offers a robust build, handles city commutes with ease, and is ready for those weekend getaways to mild adventure spots, then this Thar variant is definitely worth considering. It offers the iconic Thar experience at a more accessible price point, combining the convenience of an automatic transmission with the efficiency of a diesel engine. While it has its quirks in terms of practicality, its charm, capability, and sheer fun-to-drive factor make it a compelling choice for young buyers, enthusiasts, or as a second car in the family. Go ahead, take it for a spin; it might just be the adventure partner you've been looking for!