The Mahindra Thar Launched!

The Mahindra Thar is finally a reality in India. After years of waiting for this lifetstyle off roader to hit Indian shores, enthusiasts can now rejoice for the wait is over. The Thar promises to be a throwback to the days of 'jeeping' and built upon a heritage that goes back to the Willys.

Based on the MM540/550 body style, the Thar boasts of having modern influences tucked under its strong metal body. Powering the Thar is a NEF CRDe turbocharged intercooled engine that displaces 2498cc and churns out about 104 BHP. Torque figures are more than substantial at 247Nm between 1800-2000 rpm. Mated to a five speed shift with a 4x4 Borg-Warner transfercase, the Thar has the ability to literally live up to its name and go just about anywhere you wish to take it. It's onroad manners are said to be in the league of the Bolero as the Thar too boasts of Independent Front Suspension on the CRDe variant. 

Mahindra has also introduced a 4x2 version that features a direct injection diesel engine. This model is destined for the rural market and in lieu of that Mahindra has kept the suspension on the front and rear as the tried and tested leaf spring set up in order to handle real rough usage and the tendency to be overloaded.

The Thar has been purposefully built to allow one to enjoy off roading like no other vehicle in India. It boasts of a 46 degree approach angle and 30 degree departure angle as well as 200mm of ground clearance. Built on a strong body on chassis frame for robust usage, the Thar is not your everyday wannabe jeep, it’s a true throwback to the jeep in a literal sense, albeit with some creature comforts thrown in for good measure such as power steering and rather comfortable seating.

The Mahindra Thar is priced rather competitively. The top of the line CRDe 4x4 model is available at just Rs. 5.99 Lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi) and the Direct Injection Diesel 4x2 model is priced at Rs. 4.47 Lakh (exshowroom, Jaipur). It's time to hit the dirt in style.

The Mahindra Thar

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