The new Mahindra Thar 2WD (or RWD) variants went on sale in the second week of January 2023. Besides this, the carmaker introduced a smaller 1.5L diesel engine in the SUV model lineup. It’s the same motor that powers the XUV300. The 4-cylinder oil burner is good enough for 117bhp and 300Nm. With the introduction of the smaller capacity diesel engine along with the sub-4 metre length, the Thar gets benefits of the lower excise. The new diesel engine can be had with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Buyers also get the 2.0L turbo petrol engine option with the new Thar RWD (or 2WD). Unlike the diesel engine, the gasoline unit is available with only a 6-speed torque convertor automatic transmission. It pushes out a peak power of 152bhp and 320Nm of torque. While the new Mahindra Thar 2WD diesel AX (O) and LX variants are priced at Rs 9.99 lakh and Rs 10.99 lakh, the LX petrol model costs Rs 13.49 lakh (all, ex-showroom). The carmaker has already revealed that these are introductory prices and will be applicable only for the first 10,000 customers.
Mahindra Thar 2WD Waiting Period
| Variant | Waiting Period |
| LX Petrol | Up to 3 Months |
| AX (O), LX Diesel | Up to 16-18 Months |
| Thar 4X4 (Petrol/Diesel) | Up to 3 Months |
As per dealer sources, the new Mahindra Thar 2WD petrol variant has a waiting period of up to 3 months. The 2WD diesel variants, which are high in-demand, command a waiting period in between 16 to 18 months in select cities. The SUV’s 4X4 variants (both petrol and diesel) are observing a waiting period of up to 3 months. The reason behind high demand of the Thar 2WD diesel model is its fuel efficiency, better city drivability and of-course the pricing.
In other updates, the Pune-based carmaker is testing the extended version of the Thar that’s reported to debut sometime this year. The 5-door Mahindra Thar will be available with both 4X4 and 4X2 drivetrain options. It can be had with either a 2.0L turbo petrol or 2.2L turbo diesel engine.
