Mahindra Thar Roxx Expert Review

The Mahindra Thar Roxx takes the popular Thar formula and evolves it into a purposeful 5-door SUV rather than just stretching the 3-door. Built on an all-new, fourth-generation body-on-frame chassis, it’s both lighter and stiffer — a foundation that smooths out the Thar’s traditional bouncy ride and heavy steering while retaining serious ruggedness. The multi-link rear suspension with Watt’s linkage improves body control, and electric power steering replaces the old hydraulic setup for easier everyday driving.

Visually, the Roxx is unmistakably Thar but more proportional and assertive. The six-slot grille, C-shaped LED lights front and rear, wide track and massive 19-inch wheels give it presence. A full-metal roof with a massive panoramic sunroof — claimed to be the largest on any car — adds flair, while rugged cues like exposed hinges and a side-opening tailgate with a full-size spare underline its go-anywhere intentions.

Climbing into the Roxx reveals a big step forward from the 3-door Thar. Soft-touch materials, brushed metal, leatherette, and thoughtful finishes lift the cabin’s feel. Though some trim fitment varies slightly, overall quality feels more upmarket. The steering wheel borrowed from the XUV700 adds a familiar premium touch.

Front seats are supportive but a bit too plush in the lumbar area, and high-position seating gives excellent road view. Top variants get ventilated seats and powered driver adjustment. In the rear, the extra long wheelbase pays dividends: generous legroom, thigh support and adjustable recline make long journeys comfortable, while the flat floor and width let three adults sit more easily than in most rivals. Boot space, a weak point in the 3-door Thar, is now ample for family trips.

The Roxx continues with the Thar’s proven engine options: a potent 2.2-litre diesel and a punchy 2.0-litre petrol, both smooth and strong for real-world use. Ride quality is markedly improved over the 3-door thanks to the new suspension and chassis dynamics. Noise insulation, while not luxury SUV quiet, is respectable for a ladder-frame vehicle, and road manners feel more confident.

Fuel economy for both petrol and diesel Roxx variants hovers around the mid-teens in real-world usage — in line with expectations for a heavily built body-on-frame SUV. It won’t rival monocoque rivals for efficiency, but given its size, weight and capability focus, returns are acceptable for the segment.

The Roxx’s longer wheelbase and updated rear suspension noticeably tame the bumpiness that plagued the 3-door Thar. On uneven tar, the ride is more settled, and body control is improved without dulling all terrain capability. The lighter electric steering suits urban traffic, though some still find lateral movement and body roll more pronounced than in softer-springed monocoque SUVs.

The Roxx is generously equipped. A 10.25-inch touchscreen and matching digital cluster bring modern connectivity, while ADAS features, wireless charging, 360° camera, ambient lighting and blind-spot monitoring elevate its tech package well above the older Thar. However, the instrument display’s UI can be cumbersome, with slow toggling and one-way scrolling. Safety kit includes six airbags and stability systems as standard.

Mahindra has priced the Roxx aggressively. Entry variants start attractively for a five-door SUV with real off-road cred, while top spec remains competitive against other lifestyle face-lifted SUVs. For buyers seeking raw capability blended with everyday practicality and a big feature list, the Roxx offers strong value. It isn’t as refined as premium monocoque rivals, but in its own rugged niche, it delivers impressive breadth for the price.