The Mahindra Thar, currently in its second generation, is one of the most popular off-roaders in the Indian SUV specialist’s portfolio. To widen the 3-door Thar’s appeal, Mahindra has introduced more features with the 2025 mid-cycle update. Should you plan to add the new Thar to your garage, here are its key pros and cons to help you decide.
Highly capable off-roader
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While sampling the 2.2-litre diesel Mahindra Thar at the carmaker’s off-road test track in Igatpuri, Maharashtra, we were impressed by the compact SUV’s ability to breeze through pretty much every obstacle, especially with the low range engaged.
Refined and punchy powertrains
The updated Thar continues to offer 119hp 1.5-litre diesel, 152hp 2-litre turbo-petrol and 132hp 2.2-litre diesel engine options; all come with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. A 6-speed torque-converter automatic option is available only with the 2.2-litre diesel and petrol Thar models. Also, a 4WD setup is standard on the 2.2-litre diesel Thar but optional with the turbo-petrol version; the smaller diesel block is available only in the RWD layout.
With the Thar’s advantages discussed, let’s now delve into a couple of its weaknesses.
Bouncy ride
Pre-facelift Mahindra Thar (image used for representation).
While Mahindra has made feedback-based calibration changes to the suspension, the Thar’s ride quality is still bouncy at low speeds, coupled with a lot of body movement. Rear passengers seated directly over the axle will be the most affected because of the Thar’s ride. For those seeking better ride comfort in an SUV, a monocoque-based model should be more suited than the ladder-on-frame Thar.
Rear seats are not easy to access
Pre-facelift Mahindra Thar (image used for representation).
Getting into the back isn’t the easiest, as you have to flip and slide the driver’s seat forward and then step in through a tight opening. Access from the passenger side is a bit easier since that seat can be folded down and moved forward. The wheel wells also intrude into the seating area, making it suitable only for two adults rather than three. And with the rear seats up, the boot holds only a couple of small backpacks.
Whileat the carmaker’s off-road test track in Igatpuri, Maharashtra, we were impressed by the compact SUV’s ability to breeze through pretty much every obstacle, especially with the low range engaged.
