The new-gen Mahindra Thar is scheduled to be launched in the Indian market on October 2, 2020. Unveiled on India’s 74th Independence Day, the second-gen Mahindra Thar turns into a perfect lifestyle SUV will target both urban buyers and off-road lovers. The new model is a 3-door SUV; however, Mahindra has started working on the 5-door Mahindra Thar. We informed you earlier that Mahindra has greenlit the development of the 5-door Thar, which will receive all-new body.
The soon-to-be-launched 3-door Mahindra Thar will have limited market. With the 5-door Mahindra Thar, the company is aiming to further widen its appeal. The new model will be positioned as a vehicle that can be driven every day. This model will ride on longer wheelbase, which will allow Mahindra engineers to create more space inside the cabin. The 5-door Mahindra Thar will directly rival the new-gen Force Gurkha, which will also be available in 3- and 5-door versions. Adding to it, the Maruti Suzuki is also readying the 5-door version of the Jimny off-roader.
The new-gen Mahindra Thar with 5-doors and more interior space could bring in more customers who might have avoided the 3-door model. The increase in wheelbase will make it more practical for families, as it will bring option of seat for 3 adults at the back and easy ingress and egress.
The Mahindra Thar 5-door variant will be based on the same GEN3 ladder-frame chassis, which underpins the 3-door Thar. This platform also underpins the new-gen Scorpio and the new-gen Thar lifestyle SUV. The company could also revise the design of the SUV to make it look slightly different from the existing model.
The 3-door Mahindra Thar is available with 2 engine options – 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.
The new-gen Thar comes with a ground clearance of 226mm and has 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.
Similar to the new 3-door Thar, the new-gen Mahindra Thar 5-door will have modern day features inside the cabin. The new model will get a touchscreen infotainment system with connectivity features, automatic climate control, multi-functional steering wheel, USB charging port, cruise control, follow me home headlamps, etc.
Video – Mahindra Thar 2020 First Look
