The legendary Mahindra Thar, beloved for its tough looks and off-road dominance, is about to get a roomier sibling – the Mahindra Thar 5-door. This upcoming SUV promises to retain the Thar’s DNA while offering more practicality, space, and comfort for adventure-hungry families and enthusiasts. Let’s explore what we know so far about this exciting addition to India’s automotive scene.
More Doors, More Fun
The biggest update, as the name implies, is the addition of two rear doors. This transforms the Thar from a 3-door lifestyle vehicle into a full-fledged 5-seater SUV, making it much more suitable for daily use and family adventures. The extended wheelbase is expected to provide more legroom and improved cargo space, addressing a key limitation of the 3-door Thar.
Engine and Transmission Choices
Under the hood, the Thar 5-door is likely to retain the familiar 2.0-liter turbo-petrol and 2.2-liter diesel engines from its 3-door counterpart. However, these engines might be tweaked for better fuel efficiency while still delivering ample power and torque. Both engines are expected to be paired with 6-speed manual and automatic transmission options, along with both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations. This ensures the Thar 5-door stays capable of handling challenging terrains while offering a comfortable driving experience on paved roads.
Design and Features
While Mahindra has been tight-lipped about official details, spy shots offer some interesting hints. The Thar 5-door is expected to borrow design cues from its 3-door sibling, retaining the boxy silhouette, flared fenders, and round headlamps. However, it might get some subtle design tweaks to differentiate it from the 3-door model. The interior of the Thar 5-door is likely to see a significant upgrade in terms of features and comfort. Expect a larger touchscreen infotainment system, digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and possibly a sunroof. Mahindra is known for offering a wide range of customization options, and the Thar 5-door is likely to follow suit, allowing owners to personalize it to their preferences.
Launch and Price
The official launch date of the Mahindra Thar 5-door is yet to be confirmed, but reports suggest it could arrive in mid-2024. The starting price is expected to be around INR 15 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards, making it slightly more expensive than the 3-door Thar. The Thar 5-door will compete with other mid-size SUVs, but its unique off-road capability and iconic brand legacy are likely to give it a distinct edge.
What’s in a Name?
Mahindra has trademarked seven names for the 5-door SUV: Thar Armada, Thar Savannah, Thar Gladius, Thar Cult, Thar Rex, Thar Roxx, and Thar Centurion. While the final name remains a mystery, Armada stands out as a potential frontrunner, evoking images of adventure and exploration. The other names suggest an emphasis on either strength and power (Gladius, Rex, Roxx, Centurion) or community and lifestyle (Savannah, Cult).
The Mahindra Thar 5-door has the potential to be a game-changer in the Indian SUV market. By combining ruggedness, practicality, and modern features, it caters to a wider audience while staying true to the Thar’s adventurous spirit. As the launch date approaches, the Thar 5-door is sure to generate even more excitement among auto enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
