Mahindra Thar 2WD launch on January 9

Mahindra has revealed details of the Thar RWD variants by uploading the updated brochure of the SUV on its website. The new Thar 4x2 will launch on January 9, and its brochure reveals the powertrain details, new colour options and equipment on offer.

Mahindra Thar RWD: what’s new?

The 2WD version of the Thar remains cosmetically similar to the 4WD version, although it omits the 4x4 badge on the rear fender. Mahindra has also introduced two new colours on the Thar – Blazing Bronze, which is also available on the XUV300 TurboSport, and Everest White – bringing the total exterior paint options to six. The 4x2 version of the Thar will only be available with the hard-top option.

Inside, the RWD version gets a cubby hole instead of the 4x4 selector lever in the centre console. It also gets an auto-start stop function, which can be accessed via the control panel near the driver’s right knee.

Mahindra Thar RWD: powertrains

Furthermore, the Thar RWD also gets a new powertrain – a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine, lifted from the XUV300, which produces 118.5hp and 300Nm of torque, and come mated only to a six-speed manual gearbox. On the other hand, the 4WD Thar will continue with the 132hp, 300Nm 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine.

Alongside, the 2WD version will also get the 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 152hp and 300Nm (320Nm with automatic gearbox) mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox.

Mahindra Thar AX (Optional) details

Along with the rear-wheel drive system, the Thar also gets a lower-spec AX Optional trim for both 1.5 diesel and 2.0 petrol powertrains. Sources tell us that this trim was not available with the Thar earlier, but has now been silently added.

The AX (O) gets 16-inch steel wheels instead of 17-inch alloy wheels, tubular steel side step, vinyl upholstery, manual mirror adjustment and a monochrome MID display. The AX (O) misses out on the 7-inch touchscreen system, in-built speakers, TPMS, cruise control and steering-mounted controls. Furthermore, ESP with roll-over mitigation along with Hill hold and hill descent control are only available with the 1.5 diesel AX optional variant.