Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT

Buying a new car in India is a big decision. You think about many things like your budget, how safe the car is, how much it will cost to maintain every month, what features it has, and of course, the company service. Everyone wants a car that looks good, performs well, and keeps them and their family safe. Today, we are going to dive deep into a car that has captured the hearts of many adventurous Indian buyers: the new Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT. This iconic SUV is not just a vehicle; it is a statement. Let us find out if it is the right car for your garage.

Main Highlights

Engine Specifications

The Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT comes with two powerful engine choices, both paired with a smooth automatic transmission:

• 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol Engine: This petrol engine is a powerhouse, offering 150 PS of power and 320 Nm of torque. It is responsive and great for both city driving and highway cruises.
• 2.2L mHawk Diesel Engine: The diesel engine provides 130 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque. It is known for its strong low-end torque, which is excellent for off-roading and provides good fuel efficiency for its class.

Design Overview

Exterior: The Thar design is instantly recognisable. It keeps its classic, rugged look with modern touches. The Hard Top adds convenience and security. Its wide stance, round headlamps, prominent grille, and chunky tyres give it an unmatched road presence. It looks tough and ready for anything, whether you are in the city or on a mountain trail. Its boxy shape and high ground clearance truly make it stand out.

Interior: Inside, the Thar offers a surprisingly modern and comfortable cabin for an off-roader. The LX variant gets a more premium feel. It has a functional layout with washable floors and drain plugs, making it practical for adventure. While it is designed to be tough, it still offers enough comfort for daily use.

Key Features

The Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT is packed with features that enhance your driving experience:

• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
• Cruise control for relaxed highway driving.
• Steering mounted controls for audio and phone calls.
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System TPMS for safety and convenience.
• Follow-me-home headlamps.
• Power windows.
• Rear parking sensors.
• Central locking.
• Stylish alloy wheels.
• A multi-information display in the instrument cluster.

What is the Ground Clearance of Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT

The Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT boasts an impressive 226 mm of ground clearance. This is one of its biggest advantages, allowing it to easily tackle rough terrain, deep potholes, and water crossings without scraping its underside.

What is the Boot Space of Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT

The Thar LX Hard Top AT has a very compact boot space, typically around 69 litres (or approximately 100 litres) with all seats up. This is quite limited for large luggage, reflecting its focus on off-road adventures rather than family hauling. You might need to use roof carriers or fold down the rear seats for more cargo capacity.

What are the Dimensions of Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT

• Length: 3985 mm
• Width: 1820 mm (without mirrors)
• Height: 1850 mm (Hard Top)
• Wheelbase: 2450 mm

Powertrain Options

For the LX Hard Top AT variant, you get the best of both worlds:

• Petrol Automatic: The 2.0L mStallion turbo petrol engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
• Diesel Automatic: The 2.2L mHawk diesel engine coupled with a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.

Both options include a 4x4 transfer case, ensuring excellent off-road capabilities.

Safety Features

Mahindra has prioritised safety in the Thar. Key safety features include:

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

NCAP Rating

The Mahindra Thar has proven its safety credentials:

• Global NCAP Rating (tested in 2020):
  • Adult Occupant Protection: 4 Stars
  • Child Occupant Protection: 4 Stars
• Bharat NCAP Rating: As of now, the 3-door Mahindra Thar has not been specifically tested or rated by Bharat NCAP. Its Global NCAP rating still stands as a strong testament to its safety.

Rivals of Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT

In the Indian market, the Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT faces competition from:

• Maruti Suzuki Jimny (5-door)
• Force Gurkha (3-door and 5-door)

How is the Car? Pros & Cons

Advantages (Pros)

• Iconic Design and Road Presence: It turns heads everywhere it goes.
• Exceptional Off-road Capability: One of the best off-roaders you can buy in India in its segment.
• Powerful Engine Options: Both petrol and diesel engines are refined and offer strong performance.
• Convenient Automatic Transmission: Makes driving in city traffic and off-road easier.
• High Safety Rating: A 4-star Global NCAP rating provides peace of mind.
• Solid Build Quality: Feels rugged and durable.
• Modern Features: Infotainment, cruise control, TPMS add to its appeal.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Limited Practicality for Families: Rear seat access is challenging, and space is tight.
• Small Boot Space: Not ideal for carrying a lot of luggage.
• On-road Ride Quality: Can be bouncy on broken roads compared to conventional SUVs.
• Fuel Efficiency: Can be lower, especially for the petrol automatic variant.
• Lacks Some Modern Comforts: Features like automatic climate control or ventilated seats are not available.
• Niche Vehicle: Its unique character might not suit everyone as a primary family car.

Conclusion

The Mahindra Thar LX Hard Top AT is more than just a car; it is an experience. It offers an unbeatable combination of rugged appeal, serious off-road prowess, and modern features, all wrapped in a safe package. While it might not be the most practical choice for a large family or those seeking ultimate on-road comfort, its strengths lie in its adventurous spirit and undeniable charm. If you are looking for a vehicle that can take you almost anywhere, stands out from the crowd, and offers a fun, engaging driving experience, then the Thar LX Hard Top AT is definitely worth considering. It is a car that truly defines the spirit of adventure in India. Make sure to take a test drive to feel its power and presence yourself!