2020 Mahindra Thar India Unveiling Tomorrow: 5 Things You Should Know

UPDATE: The 2020 Mahindra Thar has been unveiled in the country. 

After what seems like an eternity, Mahindra is set to unveil the next-gen Thar tomorrow. It's set to be bigger and more premium than before with the option of a petrol mill for the first time. Here are five such things to expect from the next iteration of the Thar set to debut on the 74th Independence Day of India:

Exterior

Spy shots reveal the 2020 Thar will borrow basic design elements from its predecessor and the Jeep Wrangler like the upright silhouette and seven-slat grille. Notable bits include Thar engraving on the tail lamps with LED DRLs up front that look like a straight lift from the Wrangler. The large alloy wheels, possibly 17-inches, elevate the overall design. As such, everything in the 2020 Thar has grown XXL.

Interior

Heading inside, the 2020 Thar will be a big step-up from the first-gen barebone Thar. While the layout is similar, there are some updates in the form of revised dials, new steering, and a touchscreen infotainment system. It also gets forward-facing rear seats to add to its safety and comfort. 

Expected Features

The next-gen Thar will be loaded in terms of equipment. Some confirmed bits are roof-mounted speakers, a touchscreen infotainment system most likely with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, front power windows, and a removable hard top. The safety kit is likely to include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. 

Powertrains

Under the hood, the 2020 Thar could be powered by two powertrains: a 140PS 2.2-litre mHawk diesel and for the first time a 190PS 2.0-litre mStallion petrol engine. Both engines are likely to be paired with a 6-speed manual and automatic transmission. What’s more, both could be offered with 4x4 drivetrains with a low-range transfer case for those off-road thrills.

Variants, Expected Price And Rivals

The 2020 Thar could come in two variants with a hard-top and a soft-top roof. With all these updates, expect a steep premium over its predecessor. The base variant is likely to be priced over the Rs 10-lakh mark. The 2020 Thar will go up against the Force Gurkha and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny.