Now, it's been a while that the hype of 2020 Mahindra Thar is alive in the Indian car market and among several potential buyers. The 4x4 SUV will be launching on October 2 and the top-spec LX variant with factory fitted hardtop is expected to touch Rs 15-16 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi price. So we thought why not compare it with the proper lifestyle vehicle. Yes, the 2020 Mahindra Thar vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is our pick.
Before we go any further to the specifications, engine options and even the dimensions, let's focus on the positives of 2020 Mahindra Thar followed by Isuzu D-Max V-Cross. At last, both the SUVs caters to the need of different buyers but the pricing factor leaves us in a surprise.
Please note that the detailed explanation of the below points is available after the engine specs
| Pros of Mahindra Thar | Pros of Isuzu D-Max V-Cross |
| Affordable 4x4 | More Cabin Space |
| More Efficient and Quicker | More luggage space |
| Easy to handle in traffic | Better suspension |
| Better off the road | Better comfort |
Spec Comparison
| Dimensions | 2020 Mahindra Thar | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross |
| Length | 3985 mm | 5295 mm |
| Width | 1820 mm for AX and AX(O), 1855 for LX | 1860 mm |
| Height | 1920 (soft top) , 1844 (hardtop) , 1896 (convertible top) | 1855 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm | 3095 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 226 mm | 225 mm |
There is no comparison on the length of these two SUVs however a closer look at the width in the LX variant of Thar with the V-Cross might tell you that both the SUVs offer a similar amount of shoulder space in the cabin. Similarly, due to the lesser wheelbase, the cabin inside the Thar feels smaller than V-Cross. The 2020 Thar wins by 1 mm in terms of ground clearance with the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross.
| Engine | 2020 Mahindra Thar | Isuzu D-Max V-Cross |
| Capacity | 2.2L (Diesel) and 2.0L (Petrol) | 1.9L (Diesel) and 2.5L Diesel |
| Power | 130 bhp and 150 bhp | 148 bhp and 134 bhp |
| Torque | 300 Nm and 320 Nm | 350 Nm and 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual and 6-Speed Auto (both engines) | 6-speed AT (1.9L) and 5-speed manual (2.5L) |
Before you make your judgements here, the BS6 version of the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross is not out and these are figures of the BS4 model. We did it as to how the pick-up truck fairs with the all-new Thar.
Also Read: A Five Door Version Of 2020 Mahindra Thar In The Pipeline - Details
As you can see from the table above, 2020 Thar gets an advantage because of the new mStallion 2.0L petrol engine whereas Isuzu is only available with the diesel engine. The pick-up truck wins as it has more power and torque. However, the end result should not be calculated on the paper but on a real adventure. Hence, we are trying our level best to bring you neck to neck comparison of both these lifestyle SUVs.
Pros of 2020 Mahindra Thar
Affordable 4x4
Yes, the new Thar will be one of the interesting SUVs this time since Mahindra is giving all the benefits to the consumers. If you are the one opting for the top-spec LX variant, you will get all the goodies and that at a more affordable rate than the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross.
More Efficient and Quicker
You can check our fuel economy video of the 2020 Mahindra Thar where we have driven the SUV on highways. It has proven out to be a fuel-efficient vehicle. The second advantage of Thar over the V-Cross is its weight. Since it weighs lower than the pick-up truck, it is quicker than that. Also, the new petrol and diesel engine add to Thar's advantage.
Easy to handle in traffic
Yes, Mahindra has proved that their new Thar suits for every kind of buyer - be it the regular office commute person or off-roading fun on weekends or a mix of both. We drove the car in Delhi and Gurgaon and trust me, it was a piece of cake. You sit up high and knows the angle without hurting the back which sometimes happens in the V-Cross. Also, parking is easier in Thar.
Better off the road
Yes, because of the new approach, departure and ramp over angle, the new Thar has significantly improved in terms of dynamics and from the off-roading point of view.
Pros of Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
More space
Yes, because of a larger cabin, it can easily seat 5 people for short journeys and 4 people will be comfortable for long journeys. So this adds to an advantage of V-Cross which lacks in Thar.
Also Read: Kia Sonet iMT First Look Review - This Is How It Drives In Traffic
More luggage room
Yes, for people who love to spend most of their times on the road, the V-Cross will be more efficient since it can handle more luggage. Also, the aftermarket options make sure that the loading cargo bay can be well customised according to the customers need.
Better suspension and comfort
There is no doubt that even on the long journeys and bad roads, the pick-up truck will be able to handle itself better than the Thar. It provides a good amount of comfort to the people sitting inside and takes a less toll on the suspension too.
Hope, with our detailed pointers including dimension, engine options and advantages, it has helped you decide which of these lifestyle SUVs should be in your garage soon.
