OD SUV Slugfest: Mahindra Thar

Bob Rupani Updated: September 10, 2018, 08:55 AM IST

Mahindra once had an association with Jeep, and this is reflected in the Thar.

Styling and street presence

The design is familiar to most Indians as we have seen it in one avatar or the other.

Seating and visibility

Climbing in needs some effort, but due to the almost 90 degree angle of the windscreen and wafer thin A-pillars, the visibility is very good. Wipers are basic and their sweep is also limited.

All-terrain capability

Has 4WD with low range and impressive off-road abilities. Ground clearance is decent and approach and departure angles are good too. Short wheelbase makes it very manoeuverable.

Practicality

The build quality could be better and the ergonomics also need improvement. Full-size spare fitted on tailgate is easy to access.

Touring ability and performance

Feels underpowered and struggles to overtake at speeds. Entire power train and drive train is unrefined. High speed stability is not up to the mark and needs corrections to even keep it in a straight line. Surely not for long journeys.

Stage timing

3m 59.88s

Takes the rough in its stride, but handling falls short of expectations. Needs constant corrections and gearbox does not encourage quick shifting.

Specifications

Price: Rs 10.94 lakh (on-road, Mumbai)
Engine type: 2.5D/107PS/247Nm
Fuel Economy: 13kmpl
Fuel capacity and Range: 60l/780km
2WD/AWD/4WD: 4WD
4WD lock: No
Diff Lock: Rear
Ground Clearance: 200mm
Dimensions (LWH) mm: 3,920 x 1,726 x 1,930
Wheelbase: 2,430mm
Weight: 1,750kg (kerb)
Off-Road Driving Modes: No
Headlight Washers: No
Boot Capacity: NA