Mahindra Thar OG

autocar.india

•1w

Yes, it's time to retire the Ritz. Of the two cars you're considering, the Skoda 1.0 TSI is the right one. Both the Kylaq and the Kushaq use it, and either suits an enthusiast far better than the Thar. The engine is eager, the steering is sharp, and the chassis feels planted when you push it. Those are the things you'll value as someone who drives on track.The catch is your mileage. At 75-100 km a day, you'll cover close to 30,000km a year, and the petrol Skoda will cost noticeably more to run than a diesel. If that bothers you, test-drive the Mahindra XUV 3XO diesel. Its 1.5 diesel is one of the punchiest in its class; it has a roomy rear seat for your parents, and it'll be much cheaper to run, though it isn't as sharp to drive as the Skoda.The new Mahindra Thar isn't a good fit. It's tall to climb into for older passengers, the rear is cramped, and it isn't as settled as a regular SUV over 100km a day.Your Ritz has done well. Its 1.3 diesel runs a timing chain rather than a belt, which is why it's lasted. Drive the Skoda car and the 3XO back to back, and decide how much the extra fun is worth to you.

Skoda Kylaq

Skoda Kushaq

Mahindra Thar OG

Mahindra XUV 3XO

autocar.india

•1w

There is an important clarification here. The test mules and recent reports doing the rounds are for the three door Thar, now called Thar OG, not a facelift of the Thar Roxx. We have not seen credible evidence from Mahindra or from our sources pointing to an imminent Thar Roxx facelift. The recently updated Thar OG has borrowed several elements from the Roxx, which may be the reason for some of the confusion.The Thar OG was actually launched in September 2026 with substantial changes, including a new platform, revised suspension, electric power steering, terrain modes and other features. So the current Roxx remains the larger five door model in Mahindra's range, and there is currently no confirmed launch timeline for a Roxx facelift.For an AX7L 4WD buyer, there is therefore little reason to postpone the purchase purely because of these spy shots. If you need the car now and have already decided that the Roxx's combination of space, comfort and 4WD capability suits you, the current model is a safe purchase.

Mahindra Thar OG

Mahindra Thar Roxx

autocar.india

•1w

For your 1,500 to 1,800km monthly running and preference for long trips on village roads, the Roxx is the better choice. Compared with the Thar OG, it is considerably more comfortable and stable at highway speeds, has a much more usable cabin and rear seat, and offers better ride comfort without giving up the 4x4 capability you want. The 2.2 litre diesel 4x4 manual is also well suited to your usage, particularly when you are likely to encounter rough or poorly surfaced roads.The MX5 makes more sense than stretching to the ZXT if the additional features are not essential. The Roxx is already the more complete vehicle, so spending more for equipment you may not use does not add much value. The OG's biggest advantage is its compact size and more traditional Thar character, which can be appealing on narrow village roads, but that advantage is outweighed by the Roxx's superior touring ability for your usage.The interior colour is the one reason to hold off. The Roxx Star Edition does have a darker interior, but, it is not available with 4x4. There is currently no confirmed announcement of an all black or Ebony interior being introduced on a 4x4 Roxx.

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Mahindra Thar OG

autocar.india

•3w

Go for the Renault Duster Hybrid when it launches. It is the best fit for what you are looking for. You want a car that feels rugged and strong like your Royal Enfield, but is still usable for daily city driving. The Duster has always been known for its tough, no-nonsense character and excellent ride quality, and the new generation continues that tradition. The hybrid powertrain will make it much more suitable for your 80-90% city driving, while still being capable enough for long drives to the mountains without you having to worry about fuel efficiency or reliability.The Tata Harrier diesel is a good car, but it is a much larger vehicle and not as easy to live with in the city. The Thar Roxx/OG is a great lifestyle vehicle, but it is not practical as a daily driver. The Toyota Hyryder Hybrid is a sensible choice, but it does not have the same rugged character you are looking for. The Hyundai Creta diesel is a good all-rounder, but it does not feel as tough or as special as the Duster. With your running, you could consider the 1.3 turbo petrol Duster with the DCT as well. It is not the most efficient engine and gearbox combination, but given your limited running, the fuel economy penalty should not be significant.

Renault Duster

Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder

Tata Harrier

Mahindra Thar Roxx

Mahindra Thar OG

Hyundai Creta