- Diesel engine is the 1.5 turbo unit from Marazzo
- Petrol engine remains same as 4x4 model
- Auto only with petrol, diesel gets 6 MT
- Design & Features remain same
Mahindra has finally announced prices for the more affordable RWD or 4x2 version of the Thar 3-door model. RWD is available for both fuel types as well as both versions of AX Option and LX. Deliveries will start from 14th Jan. Here is a quick look at the prices:
Price difference
Here is a quick look at the price difference between the 4x4 and 4x2 models
Diesel AX (O) 4x4 MT : Rs 14.15 lakh
Diesel AX (O) 4x2 MT : Rs 9.99 lakh
Difference : Rs 4.15 lakh
Diesel LX 4x4 MT : Rs 14.86 lakh
Diesel LX 4x2 MT : Rs 10.99 lakh
Difference : Rs 3.87 lakh
Petrol LX 4x4 AT : Rs 15.82 lakh
Petrol LX 4x2 AT : Rs 13.49 lakh
Difference: Rs 2.33 lakh
Diesel Thar RWD
The Mahindra Thar is a sub 4 meter SUV which means it can qualify for small car tax benefits if the diesel engine is under 1500cc. This is the reason why Mahindra decided to pick the 1.5-litre turbo diesel from the Marazzo for the Thar. This is a far smoother engine as compared to the 3 cylinder seen on the XUV300 and the Bolero Neo. Interestingly, inspite of a small capacity, the 1.5 puts out similar torque levels as the 2.2 engine - 300 Nm. Peak power is down from 130 bhp to 117 bhp.
The diesel RWD Thar is offered with a 6 speed manual gearbox only. The automatic is still reserved for the 4x4 model.
Petrol Thar RWD
Small car tax benefits are only applicable to petrol engines of less than 1200cc. This would have made the Thar RWD underpowered and hence Mahindra decided to stick with the same 2.2 unit as the Thar 4x4. This engine on the RWD model is only available with a 6 speed automatic. We feel this is a very good combination for NCR owners where diesel cars have a life span of just 10 years.
Rivals
The Thar RWD is aimed at those who need a lifestyle urban SUV. Lot of people end up putting their money on a Rs 12-16 lakh SUV as they want road presence and high seating posture. The Thar RWD fit in here properly. It looks great, has massive road presence and offers mild off-roading abilities as well. This is due to excellent approach, departure and ramp over angle plus high ground clearance and 18 inch alloy wheels with AT tyres. The Thar will also rival the upcoming 5-door Maruti Jimny that will be showcased on 12th January 2023.
