The Mahindra Thar Rear-wheel Drive Constitutes Around Fifty Percent Of The Overall Thar Sales In India

• Incorporating both rear-wheel and four-wheel drivetrain options offered with the Thar, the Thar RWD accounts for fifty percent sales.

• Among the new bookings for the Thar, most are for rear-wheel driven variants. 

• The Thar RWD is available with a 1.5-litre diesel engine and 2-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with 6-speed MT and 6-speed AT respectively. 

The Mahindra Thar has always been one of the most popular choices for those looking for an off-roader. But with the majority barely taking their SUV off the beaten path, Mahindra introduced a more affordable two-wheel drive variant for those who don’t want the four-wheel drive hardware. And the proof in the pudding is its success, with the Thar RWD accounting for fifty percent of overall Thar sales in India. Here’s what we know about it.

At a recent investor meet, higher officials from Mahindra mentioned that among both drivetrain options offered with the Thar, the rear-wheel-drive variant accounted for fifty percent of overall Thar sales. The automaker also noted that many new bookings for the Thar are for rear-wheel-drive variants, and they plan to increase its production to satisfy the overwhelming demand.

Mahindra also mentioned that it is currently unable to increase production of the Thar RWD due to a production issue specifically with the 1.5-litre engine, rather than related to the assembly line. This could also result in an increased waiting period for the Thar RWD. 

The Thar RWD is available with the 118 PS 1.5-litre diesel engine and the 150 PS 2-litre turbo-petrol engine, paired with a 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic, respectively. The larger 2.2-litre diesel engine is offered with just the four-wheel drive option. 

Recently, Mahindra introduced the Earth Edition of the Thar, solely available with four-wheel-drive. Tap here to explore the Thar Earth Edition in more detail. Meanwhile, head over here to check out our experience with the Thar in our road test review.

Priced between Rs 11.25 lakh and Rs 17.60 lakh (ex-showroom), the Thar is offered across two trims: LX and AX Opt. It rivals the likes of the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha.