Hi team/experts, I am planning to buy the Mahindra Thar Roxx AX5 in a 4x2 configuration. I am confused about choosing between petrol and diesel. I want a fun-to-drive, punchy engine with strong pickup. Will it be manageable in heavy city traffic?

Autocar India

•7w

Mahindra's vast and varied model range can be hard to navigate, with multiple engines, gearboxes, drivetrains and feature sets, but do note that the Mahindra Thar Roxx AX5 variant is only available with the diesel engine. To opt for the petrol engine, you have to either move down to the MX5 variant or move up to the AX7 L variant. The price difference between the petrol and diesel engines is around Rs 45,000-55,000, depending on the trim, so that should not be too much of a deterrent.

The thing is, both engines are incredibly capable and impressive, with smooth and strong power delivery. It's hard to even call either of them more sporty than the other, but the petrol is perhaps a bit more rev-happy, while the diesel is marginally more efficient - although both have terrible mileage.

The engines are both fine in city traffic, mated to smooth 6-speed AT gearboxes, once you learn to drive around the extremely strong power delivery. The steering is surprisingly light too, which is good for manoeuvrability, though it is a large car, so beware of that.

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Thar Roxx

from ₹14.40 Lakh

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