The second generation Mahindra Thar has been a huge success for Mahindra & Mahindra, as it commands a waiting period of over 1 year. Based on the new ladder-on-frame chassis, the new Thar is available as a 3-door model. The SUV targets enthusiasts; however, a large group of buyers are looking at a more practical and conventional 5-door version.
In order to widen its reach, Mahindra has announced that a 5-door version of Thar lifestyle SUV is currently under development. The new Mahindra Thar 5-door variant will be based on the modified version of the existing platform. It will have longer wheelbase, and extended body to add new rear passengers’ doors. Adding to it, the SUV will offer a larger boot space.
Mahindra Thar 5-Door Key Details
Launch – 2022-23
Expected Price – Rs 13 lakh – Rs 16 Lakh
Engine Options – 2.2L Turbo-diesel & 2.0L Turbo-Petrol
Gearbox – 6AT & 6MT, 4WD standard
With the 5-door Thar, Mahindra will aim at buyers looking for a more practical SUV that offers seat for 5 adults and a large boot space along with off-road capabilities and rugged look. It is expected that the 5-door version will be more popular among Indian buyers.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door variant will be based on the same GEN3 ladder-frame chassis, which underpins the 3-door Thar. This platform will also underpin the next-gen Scorpio, which is scheduled to be launched in 2022. The 5-door Thar is also expected to receive design changes to keep things fresh in the market.
Like the new 3-door Thar, the upcoming 5-door model will have modern features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with connectivity features, automatic AC, multi-functional steering wheel, USB charging port, cruise control, follow me home headlamps, etc. The SUV will get LED headlamps with integrated DRLs and LED tail-lamps.
The new Thar 5-door will share the engine options with the 3-door Thar, which includes a 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged petrol and a 2.2-litre mHawk turbocharged diesel. While the former is good for 152bhp and 320Nm, the oil burner produces 132bhp and 320Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. Four-wheel-drive layout will be offered as standard. However, Mahindra Thar 5-door will get the more powerful version of these engines.
The SUV could receive a 180mStallion Pro turbo petrol engine, which will be more powerful and faster than the existing petrol unit. This engine is expected to allow the new Thar to achieve a speed of up to 180kmph. Adding to it, the diesel engine could be tweaked to produce up to 160bhp of power.
The 3-door Thar offers a ground clearance of 226mm and a maximum water wading capacity of 650mm. Its approach, departure and ramp up angles stand at 42 degrees, 37 degrees and 27 degrees respectively. For suspension duties, the SUV gets independent unit at the front and multi-link rear unit. The Mahindra Thar 5-door model could have different approach, departure and ramp up angles as the size of the vehicle will be increased significantly; though, it will continue to current-levels of off-road capabilities. The off-road SUV rides on 18-inch wheels shod with 255/65 R18 terrain tyres.
