Production-ready new Mahindra Thar spotted again
The 2020 Mahindra Thar continues to be seen in spy photos, although the newest of these seem to point towards the 4x4 now being very close to production.
Some of the new details visible here are the five-spoke black alloy wheels, the black plastic side cladding which forms into a chunky side step. Also seen are the indicators integrated into the front fenders and large circular fog lamps within the bumpers. There's also a large, functional skid plate on the front. Other additions are the large vertical rear-view mirrors and the exposed bonnet clamps.
Like the earlier pictures, these images also show that the new Thar will be significantly larger than the current car. It seems much wider too. The off-roader could sit on a redeveloped version of the ladder frame chassis from the Scorpio. The front fascia carries forward the Jeep CJ derived look from the present car, complete with the 7-slat grille and with slight roundedness.
Spy images have shown that the Thar's interiors are more upmarket and SUV-like with the steering-mounted controls, large MID and chrome surrounds for the AC controls. The plastic quality seems better and the layout quite a bit more modern, thanks to the large round AC vents. The passenger grab handle and a floor-mounted 4x4 shifter remind of its outdoor capability.
As for engine options, we expect the new Thar to get a petrol option for the first time. This is expected to be a 2.0-litre from the Stallion range that debuted at the 2020 Auto Expo, making 190PS and 380 Nm. We also expect to see the 2.2-litre mHawk with 155PS and 360 Nm. We may also see an automatic version, aside from the usual off-road kit like a mechanical four-wheel drive system, a low-range transfer case and so on.
The new Thar is expected to launch in India by the end of this year, with prices expected to start at over Rs 10 lakh. It will go up against the recently launched updated Force Gurkha.
Image source: Team BHP
Starts Rs 9.8 Lakhs
2184cc
Automatic
130
300
-NA-
Starts Rs 13.59 Lakhs
2596cc
Manual
91
250
-NA-
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