- Mahindra Thar 4X2 launch date is confirmed for 9th January 2023.
- To get a smaller 1.5-litre diesel engine and two new colour options.
- Price likely to start from Rs. 11.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
Update - Thar RWD launched at Rs 9.9 lakh. Read our REPORT.
After a lot of teasing and all the specification nearly out, Mahindra & Mahindra will finally launch the Thar 4X2 officially on 9th January. The new toned-down version of the lifestyle SUV only comes with a rear-wheel drive setup. A new smaller-capacity diesel engine and the familiar petrol automatic from Thar 4X4 are the power houses of the new lifestyle vehicle. Everything you need to know about the Thar 4X2 RWD launch is discussed here.
Also Read: Mahindra Thar 4X2 RWD Spec and Features Out: Details
Mahindra Thar 4X2 RWD Launch: Details
As per the media reports, Mahindra will launch the Thar 4X2 on 9th January along with revealing the final pricing of the SUV. As the vehicle has already started reaching dealerships, expect the deliveries to start soon after. The bookings of the model will likely be commenced on the same day, both online as well as offline.
Mahindra Thar 4X2 RWD Launch: Expected Pricing and Variants
The idea of launching the Mahindra Thar 4X2 comes from the fact that Mahindra wants to introduce a more affordable version of the SUV, especially for the masses who will hardly utilize its 4WD capabilities. So we can expect an attractive price tag for the SUV. The price range is expected to start from around Rs. 11.5 lakh (ex-showroom) for the diesel manual options, while we expect the petrol automatic trim to be priced around the Rs. 12.5 lakh (ex-showroom) ballpark. Here the petrol is priced higher than the diesel for mainly two reasons, the 2.0-litre petrol engine attracts higher taxes and the automatic transmission commands a higher premium.
We expect Mahindra to offer the Thar 4X2 only in the top-spec LX trim and only with a hardtop roof option. The soft-top option will be limited to the 4X4 models.
Mahindra Thar 4X2 RWD Launch: Powertrain Options
The upcoming Mahindra Thar 4X2 will come in two engine choices, i.e. a 1.5-litre D117 CRDe diesel and the infamous 2.0-litre mStallion petrol unit. The former will be mated to only a 6-speed manual gearbox while the latter will get the familiar AISIN-sourced 6-speed automatic unit. Both the powertrain combinations will drive channel the power to the rear wheels. The power output number for the diesel will be 115 bhp and 300 Nm, while the petrol will retain its 150 bhp and 320 Nm state of tune.
Also Read: Exclusive : Mahindra Thar 4x2 RWD In Special Golden Colour (Blazing Bronze)
Verdict: As opposed to earlier speculations of the Thar 4X2 launch slated for 26th January, Mahindra's decision to launch the SUV on 9th January, before the 2023 Auto Expo can be attributed to the fact that its upcoming rival, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5 Door will be showcased at the motor show. Also, all the details about the SUV are already out and there's no point in holding the launch further. So an affordable Thar is on its way and we have to wait for the launch date for final pricing.