Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD

Buying a new car in India is a big decision, right? You think about your budget, how safe the car is for your family, how much it will cost every month to maintain, what cool new features it has, and if the company service is reliable. It is a lot to consider! But what if you could get a car that stands out, is tough, and does not break the bank? Today, we are diving deep into a new variant that is making waves: the Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD. Let us find out if this is your next adventure machine!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD offers a choice of two fantastic engines, tailored for rear-wheel drive (RWD) fun:

• 1.5 Litre D117 Diesel Engine: This is a gem for daily driving and efficiency. It produces 117 horsepower and a strong 300 Nm of torque. Paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, it is smooth and economical for city commutes and highway cruises.
• 2.0 Litre mStallion Petrol Engine: For those who love a bit more power, this petrol engine delivers 150 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque (320 Nm with the automatic). You can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission for a more relaxed drive. This engine offers brisk acceleration and makes driving exciting.

Design Overview

The Thar ROXX MX1 RWD keeps that iconic, rugged look that makes heads turn everywhere. It is a true Mahindra Thar from every angle.

• Exterior: You get the same bold, upright stance and muscular wheel arches. The ROXX MX1 RWD, being a base variant, typically comes with sturdy steel wheels that perfectly complement its tough character. The signature Thar grille and round headlamps ensure its identity is unmistakable. It is built to look tough and be tough.
• Interior: Step inside, and you will find a functional and practical cabin. While it is the entry-level RWD model, it still offers a comfortable space. You get manual air conditioning, power windows, and durable seating. The design is straightforward, focusing on usability and ruggedness, rather than fancy gadgets, ensuring everything you need for an adventure is right there.

Key Features

As the MX1 RWD is an entry-level variant, it focuses on essentials and robust build quality rather than high-end luxuries. Here are some features you can expect:

• Manual Air Conditioning
• Power Windows
• Dual Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Basic Multi-Information Display (MID)

Please note that features like a large infotainment screen, connected car technology, sunroof, 360-degree camera, and wireless charging are usually reserved for higher variants and are not typically found in the MX1 RWD model.

What is the Ground Clearance of Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD?

The Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD boasts an impressive 226 mm of ground clearance. This high ground clearance means you can easily tackle rough roads, unpaved paths, and even some light off-roading without worrying about scraping the underbody.

What is the Boot Space of Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD?

The Thar is known more for its capability than its cargo space. The boot space is around 130 litres. It is enough for a couple of soft bags or smaller items, but if you need to carry a lot of luggage, you might need to use the rear seats or consider rooftop carriers.

What are the Dimensions of Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD?

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

These compact dimensions make the Thar surprisingly agile in city traffic while still giving it that formidable road presence.

Powertrain Options

As mentioned earlier, the Thar ROXX MX1 RWD comes with two distinct powertrain choices:

• The efficient 1.5-litre D117 Diesel engine paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.
• The powerful 2.0-litre mStallion Petrol engine available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Both options offer a strong driving experience, focusing on rear-wheel drive dynamics for an engaging ride.

Safety Features

Safety is a priority for Mahindra, and even in the base RWD variant, you get essential safety features:

• Dual Front Airbags
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Seatbelt Reminder for Driver and Co-driver
• Speed Alert System

NCAP Rating Table

The Mahindra Thar has demonstrated strong safety performance.

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP (4x4 Variant Tested)	4 Stars	4 Stars
Bharat NCAP (RWD Variant)	Not Yet Rated*	Not Yet Rated*

*While the specific RWD variant has not been separately tested by Bharat NCAP, the structural integrity and safety features are expected to be consistent with the 4x4 variant that received a commendable 4-star Global NCAP rating.

Rivals of Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD

The Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD primarily competes in the lifestyle SUV segment. Its closest rival is:

• Maruti Suzuki Jimny: The Jimny offers 4x4 as standard and a more practical four-door setup, but with a less powerful engine.

Other vehicles that might be cross-shopped for their robust appeal or similar price point could include base variants of compact SUVs like the Tata Nexon or Hyundai Venue, though they offer a very different driving experience and capability.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Pros

• Iconic Styling: Unmatched road presence and head-turning design.
• Affordable Entry: The RWD variants make Thar ownership more accessible.
• Capable Engines: Both diesel and petrol options offer good performance.
• High Ground Clearance: Excellent for tackling bad roads and light trails.
• Mahindra Service Network: Wide and reliable service support across India.
• City-Friendly: The RWD setup and shorter wheelbase make it easier to drive in congested city conditions compared to the 4x4.
• Fuel Efficiency (Diesel): The 1.5L diesel engine offers reasonable mileage for its class.

Cons

• Limited Practicality: Small boot space and challenging rear-seat access (especially in the 3-door version).
• Basic Features: The MX1 RWD is quite bare-bones in terms of comfort and tech features.
• Bouncy Ride: The body-on-frame construction can lead to a slightly bouncy ride over rough patches, especially for rear passengers.
• No 4x4 Capability: While capable on bad roads, it lacks the true off-road prowess of its 4x4 sibling.
• Not for Large Families: Best suited for 2-3 people; rear seats are not very spacious.
• Wind Noise: Can be noticeable at higher speeds due to its boxy design.

Conclusion

The Mahindra Thar ROXX MX1 RWD is an exciting proposition for anyone who loves the rugged appeal of the Thar but does not necessarily need hardcore 4x4 capability or a long list of fancy features. It is a stylish, tough, and more budget-friendly way to own an icon. If you are looking for a car that makes a statement, handles bad roads with ease, and offers a fun driving experience without breaking the bank on initial purchase or monthly maintenance for a simpler variant, the Thar ROXX MX1 RWD could be your perfect match. It is raw, authentic, and truly a car for those who dare to be different. Make sure to take it for a test drive to feel its unique character!