Mahindra Thar AX Opt Hard Top Diesel

Hello car enthusiasts and prospective buyers! Are you on the hunt for a new vehicle in India? It is a big decision, is not it? You have to think about your budget, how safe the car is, what your monthly maintenance will look like, whether it has all the latest features, and of course, how good the company service is. It is a lot to consider!

Today, we are going to dive deep into a car that has captured the hearts of many Indians: the new Mahindra Thar AX Opt Hard Top Diesel. This iconic SUV is not just a vehicle; it is a statement. But is it the right statement for you? Let us find out!

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Mahindra Thar AX Opt Hard Top Diesel comes with a robust and capable engine designed for both city drives and adventurous trails.

• Engine Type: 2.2-litre mHawk 130 Diesel Engine
• Maximum Power: 130 bhp (brake horsepower) at 3750 rpm
• Maximum Torque: 300 Nm (Newton meters) between 1600-2800 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual

Design Overview

Exterior

The Thar's design is unmistakable. It is rugged, boxy, and incredibly purposeful.

• Iconic Look: It retains the classic Thar silhouette with its upright stance and round headlamps, giving it immense road presence.
• Hard Top: This specific AX Opt variant comes with a factory-fitted hard top, offering better insulation from noise and weather, and improved security compared to soft-top versions.
• Practicality: High-set fenders, chunky tires, and a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate complete its go-anywhere appeal.

Interior

Step inside, and you will find an interior that is functional and built to withstand adventures.

• Simple Layout: The dashboard has a straightforward design, focusing on ease of use.
• Comfort: The seats are comfortable for long drives, and the cabin feels airy thanks to the large windows.
• Utility: While not plush, the materials are durable and easy to clean, which is a big plus for an off-roader.

Key Features

The AX Opt variant focuses on core functionality, but still offers essential modern conveniences.

• Infotainment: It typically comes with a basic music system, sometimes with a monochrome display, providing essential audio functions. (Note: The larger touchscreen is usually available in higher LX variants).
• Connectivity: Basic connectivity like USB and Aux-in ports for music.
• Climate Control: Manual Air Conditioning is standard, keeping the cabin cool even in Indian summers.
• Power Windows: For convenience, especially in a two-door setup.
• Digital Instrument Cluster: A small digital display provides essential driver information.
• No Sunroof or 360-Degree Camera: Please note, features like a sunroof, 360-degree camera, or wireless charging are not available on the Thar, even in its higher variants, and certainly not on the AX Opt model.

What is the Ground Clearance of Mahindra Thar?

• Ground Clearance: 226 mm (This is excellent for tackling rough roads and off-road trails without scraping the underside).

What is the Boot Space of Mahindra Thar?

• Boot Space: The Thar has a limited boot space, especially with the rear seats in use. It is roughly around 90-100 litres, enough for a couple of small bags or soft luggage.

What is the Dimensions of Mahindra Thar?

• Length: 3985 mm
• Width: 1820 mm
• Height: 1850 mm (with hard top)
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

While the AX Opt Hard Top Diesel focuses on the diesel manual combination, it is good to know that the Thar also offers a range of options across its lineup:

• Diesel Engine: 2.2-litre mHawk (Manual and Automatic)
• Petrol Engine: 2.0-litre mStallion (Manual and Automatic)

The AX Opt variant is specifically available with the 2.2L Diesel engine paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Safety Features

Mahindra has made sure the Thar is not just tough but safe too.

• 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
• Parking Sensors (Rear)

NCAP Rating Table

Safety is paramount, and the Thar has proven its mettle in crash tests.

Rating Agency	Adult Occupant Protection	Child Occupant Protection
Global NCAP	4 Stars	4 Stars
Bharat NCAP	Not Rated Yet	Not Rated Yet

The 4-star Global NCAP rating is a strong indicator of the Thar's robust safety structure.

Rivals of Mahindra Thar AX Opt Hard Top Diesel

In the Indian market, the Thar faces competition from a few key players in the lifestyle SUV segment.

• Force Gurkha: Another dedicated off-roader known for its extreme capabilities.
• Maruti Suzuki Jimny: A smaller, more compact 5-door off-roader with a focus on practicality and ease of use.

How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)

Let us weigh the good against the not-so-good to help you make an informed choice.

Pros

• Unmatched Off-Road Capability: This is where the Thar shines. It can tackle almost any terrain with ease.
• Iconic Design & Road Presence: It turns heads everywhere it goes and has a powerful stance.
• Strong Diesel Engine: The mHawk diesel engine offers excellent torque, perfect for both highway cruising and off-roading.
• Safety Rating: A solid 4-star Global NCAP rating provides peace of mind.
• Hard Top Benefits: Offers better cabin insulation, weather protection, and security.
• Mahindra's Service Network: A wide service network across India ensures easy maintenance and support.

Cons

• Limited Practicality for Daily Use: As a two-door vehicle with minimal boot space, it is not the most practical for a family or daily city commutes.
• Ride Comfort: While improved, the ride can still be a bit bouncy on bad city roads compared to more conventional SUVs.
• Basic Features (AX Opt): The AX Opt variant lacks some modern conveniences like a touchscreen, automatic climate control, or rear camera, which some buyers might expect.
• Rear Seat Access: Getting into the rear seats requires some effort due to the two-door setup.
• Fuel Efficiency: While decent for its segment, it is not the most fuel-efficient car for city driving.

Conclusion

The Mahindra Thar AX Opt Hard Top Diesel is a car with a lot of character and immense capability. If your heart yearns for adventure, if you love to explore the unbeaten path, or simply want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd, the Thar is definitely worth considering. It offers a fantastic blend of ruggedness, safety, and iconic design at a competitive price point, especially the AX Opt variant which focuses on core utility.

However, if your primary need is a family car for daily city driving, with maximum comfort, abundant features, and large boot space, you might need to look at other options. But for the adventurous spirit, the Thar AX Opt Hard Top Diesel is more than just a car; it is a lifestyle statement and a true companion for your journeys. So, think about your needs, take a test drive, and see if this legend fits your adventurous spirit!