Buying a new car in India is a big decision. You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, the monthly maintenance costs, if it has all the latest features, and of course, the company's service network. These are all crucial points for any Indian car buyer. And when it comes to SUVs, one name stands out for its sheer appeal and ruggedness: the Mahindra Thar.
Today, we are taking a deep dive into an exciting new offering, the Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L RWD Diesel AT. This variant aims to bring the iconic Thar experience to a wider audience, focusing on daily usability without losing that legendary Thar charm. Let's see if this Thar RWD Diesel automatic is the right adventure partner for you.
Main Highlights
Engine Specifications
The Mahindra Thar RWD Diesel AT comes with a peppy and efficient engine, perfect for city drives and highway cruises.
- Engine Type: 1.5-litre D117 mHawk Diesel Engine
- Power Output: Around 117 bhp
- Torque: Around 300 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed Automatic (AT)
- Fuel Efficiency: Expect competitive mileage for an SUV of its class, making it a good choice for those looking for a capable diesel automatic.
Design Overview
The Thar's design is instantly recognizable, and the RWD variant carries that legacy with pride.
- Exterior: It keeps the muscular, upright stance, round headlights, and iconic grille that define the Thar. With its wide fenders and prominent alloys, it looks ready for anything. The RWD variant looks almost identical to its 4x4 sibling, maintaining that robust road presence. This AX7L trim might also feature enhanced styling elements.
- Interior: Step inside the Thar AX7L and you are greeted by a modern yet rugged cabin. The seats are comfortable, and the overall layout is driver-focused. While it's a compact SUV, the front seats offer good space. The dark theme with silver accents gives it a premium feel.
Key Features
Being an AX7L trim, this Thar RWD Diesel AT comes packed with a good list of modern features to enhance your driving experience.
- Infotainment System: A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with clear graphics.
- Connectivity: Supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for seamless smartphone integration. Also includes Mahindra's BlueSense app connectivity.
- Sunroof: The Mahindra Thar currently does not offer a sunroof. However, it does come with convertible soft-top or fixed hard-top options, letting you enjoy the open air in a different way.
- 360-degree Camera: A 360-degree camera is not available. It does come with a rear parking camera and parking sensors for easier maneuvering.
- Wireless Charging: Wireless smartphone charging is not offered in the Thar.
- Climate Control: Automatic climate control ensures comfortable cabin temperatures in all weather conditions.
- Other Notables: Steering-mounted controls, cruise control, multi-information display, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), electric ORVMs, and follow-me-home headlamps.
What is the Ground Clearance of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L RWD Diesel AT?
- The Thar RWD Diesel AT offers an impressive ground clearance of around 200 mm. This makes it capable of handling rough roads, potholes, and mild off-road trails with ease, a key advantage for Indian driving conditions.
What is the Boot Space of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L RWD Diesel AT?
- The Thar is primarily designed for adventure, so boot space is not its strongest suit. It offers a compact boot space of about 152 liters. This is sufficient for a couple of small bags or duffels, but for larger luggage, you might need to use the rear seats or consider roof-mounted carriers.
What are the Dimensions of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L RWD Diesel AT?
- Length: Approximately 3985 mm
- Width: Approximately 1820 mm
- Height: Approximately 1850 mm (with hardtop)
- Wheelbase: Approximately 2450 mm
Powertrain Options for Thar (Overall)
While we are focusing on the Thar RWD Diesel AT, it's good to know the broader range of options available for the Mahindra Thar.
- 1.5-litre Diesel (D117): Available with 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmissions (only for RWD variants).
- 2.0-litre Turbo Petrol (mStallion 150 TGDi): Available with 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmissions (for both RWD and 4x4 variants).
- 2.2-litre Diesel (mHawk 130): Available with 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmissions (only for 4x4 variants).
Safety Features
Safety is a priority, and the Mahindra Thar offers a solid suite of features to keep you secure.
- Dual Airbags (Driver & Passenger)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Roll-over Mitigation
- Hill Hold Control
- Hill Descent Control
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear Parking Sensors & Camera
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
NCAP Rating Table
The Mahindra Thar has demonstrated strong safety performance in crash tests.
| Rating Body |
Adult Occupant Safety |
Child Occupant Safety |
| Global NCAP |
4 Stars |
4 Stars |
| Bharat NCAP |
Yet to be rated |
Yet to be rated |
Note: The Global NCAP rating applies to the 4x4 version tested. The RWD variants share similar safety structures.
Rivals of Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L RWD Diesel AT
In the Indian market, the Thar RWD Diesel AT competes with a few key players.
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny: Another lifestyle SUV, known for its compact size and 4x4 capabilities (though only offered as 4x4).
- Force Gurkha: A more hardcore off-roader, directly competing in the rugged SUV segment.
- Compact SUVs: While not direct rivals in terms of off-road focus, vehicles like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, or Maruti Grand Vitara might be considered by buyers looking for a stylish, feature-rich SUV at a similar price point, though they offer a more city-focused experience.
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Pros
- Iconic Design & Road Presence: Unmatched styling that turns heads everywhere.
- Capable Diesel Automatic: The 1.5L diesel engine paired with an AT offers a good balance of power, torque, and convenience for city and highway use.
- Great Ground Clearance: Handles bad roads and minor trails with ease.
- Feature-Rich AX7L Trim: Offers modern comforts like a touchscreen, automatic AC, and cruise control.
- Good Safety Rating: A solid 4-star Global NCAP rating provides peace of mind.
- Affordable Thar Experience: The RWD variant makes the Thar more accessible in terms of initial cost and potentially better mileage than 4x4.
Cons
- Limited Practicality: Small boot space and challenging rear seat access. It's a 4-seater, not a family SUV.
- Firm Ride Quality: The body-on-frame chassis, while great for ruggedness, can lead to a slightly bouncy ride on broken tarmac.
- Missing Some Modern Features: No sunroof, 360-degree camera, or wireless charging, which are common in similarly priced compact SUVs.
- Fuel Efficiency (Relative): While better than 4x4, it might not match the efficiency of more aerodynamic, monocoque SUVs.
- Wind and Road Noise: Due to its design, cabin insulation could be better, especially at higher speeds.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar ROXX AX7L RWD Diesel AT is a compelling package for anyone who loves the Thar's rugged appeal but primarily drives on tarmac. It delivers the iconic looks, a capable and convenient diesel automatic powertrain, and a good set of features in this AX7L trim, all while being more accessible than its 4x4 siblings.
If you're looking for a vehicle that makes a statement, can handle rough patches with ease, offers a fun driving experience, and doesn't compromise on essential safety and comfort features, the Thar RWD Diesel automatic could be your ideal companion. It might not be the most practical family car, but as a lifestyle SUV that offers an unbeatable dose of adventure, it truly shines. Visit your nearest Mahindra dealership to experience the legend yourself and see if it fits your adventure lifestyle!
