Mahindra Thar 2025 Review: Explore The Impossible
Introduction: Where Impossible Begins
The Mahindra Thar is more than an SUV; it is an icon of freedom and adventure. The All-New Thar takes this legendary identity and infuses it with a contemporary spin, creating a neo-retro masterpiece that is as comfortable in the city as it is dominant in the wild. It stands as a testament to go-anywhere capability, built on a rugged 3rd Generation body-on-frame chassis and powered by formidable mStallion petrol and mHawk diesel engines. Priced from an estimated ₹11.5 Lakh to ₹17.5 Lakh, it challenges rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha by offering a superior blend of on-road comfort, modern technology, and uncompromising off-road hardware. This review dives deep to see if the Thar is truly the key to exploring the impossible.
Design: When Retro Meets New-Age Suave
The All-New Thar proudly carries its iconic silhouette forward. The distinctive front grille, round headlamps, and fender-mounted LED DRLs create a look that is instantly recognizable and undeniably cool. Purpose-built bumpers with unpainted ends provide practical protection, while the bold 45.72 cm (R18) Deep Silver alloy wheels add a touch of modern style. The choice of a refined Hard Top or an adventurous Soft Top allows for personalization, and the retro-styled LED tail lamps ensure the Thar makes a statement from every angle.
Inside, the Thar is as premium as it is legendary outside. The cabin is completely redesigned with a focus on comfort and practicality. Sporty front seats with body-hugging contours keep you secure, while the new front-facing rear seats with a 50:50 split offer surprising comfort and versatility. A key highlight for adventure seekers is the washable floor with drain plugs and roof-mounted speakers, allowing you to clean up easily after a day on the trails without worrying about damaging the electronics. The entire cabin is a blend of rugged functionality and modern convenience.
Exterior Design:
Iconic silhouette with modern touches like LED DRLs, R18 alloys, and purpose-built bumpers.
Interior Design:
Rugged yet comfortable with sporty seats, front-facing rear seats, and a practical washable floor.
Performance: Emperor of All Terrains
Performance is the heart of the Thar. The all-new mStallion 150 TGDi Petrol Engine delivers a spirited 112 kW (~150 PS) and up to 320 Nm of torque, making it perfect for enthusiasts. For the torque lovers, the legendary mHawk 130 Diesel Engine provides 97 kW (~130 PS) and 300 Nm of torque, ideal for conquering tough inclines. A smaller D117 CRDe Diesel engine is also available for RWD variants. These engines are mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, offering choices for both purists and those seeking convenience.
The Thar’s true capability is unlocked by its off-road hardware. It features a manual shift 4×4 transfer case with low ratio, allowing you to go anywhere. The advanced Electronic Brake Locking Differential provides maximum traction in slippery conditions. The all-new suspension, combining an Independent Front Suspension with a Multi-Link Rear, offers superior off-road traction while maintaining surprisingly good on-road handling. This is a true-blue SUV built to explore the impossible.
Powertrain Options:
Spirited mStallion 150 petrol and torque-rich mHawk 130 diesel engines with 6-speed MT/AT options.
Off-Road Capability:
Authentic body-on-frame construction with a manual shift 4×4, low ratio, and an advanced suspension setup.
Technology: Retro Cool Meets New Tech
The Thar is loaded with state-of-the-art technology designed for adventure. The centerpiece is the 17.8 cm waterproof touchscreen infotainment system, which supports Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and USB connectivity. A standout feature is the Adventure Statistics System, which displays vital off-road information like an altimeter, compass, and a roll & pitch meter. The revamped TFT Multi-Information Display in the instrument cluster keeps you informed, while the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) even keeps an eye on the spare wheel. With BlueSense app connectivity, you can link the Thar to your phone or smartwatch for effortless access.
Infotainment:
A 17.8cm waterproof touchscreen with smartphone connectivity and roof-mounted speakers for a party on the go.
Adventure Tech:
Adventure Statistics display vital off-road data, while TPMS and the BlueSense app keep you connected and in control.
Safety: Take on the Impossible Without Fear
The All-New Thar is engineered to be an incredibly safe partner for your adventures. It features a crash-safety compliant bodyshell and a built-in interior roll cage for structural rigidity and passenger protection. Safety is further enhanced with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Rollover Mitigation technology. For tackling tricky terrain, it comes equipped with Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control. For family adventurers, the rear seats are fitted with ISOFIX child seat mounts, ensuring that even your little ones are snug and safe.
Passive Safety:
Built-in roll cage, dual airbags, ISOFIX mounts, and a crash-compliant structure provide a protective shield.
Active Safety:
ESP with Rollover Mitigation, Hill Hold, and Hill Descent Control ensure you are in stable hands.
Variants and Value: A Thar for Every Adventure
The Thar is available in two main variants: AX OPT and LX, with options for petrol and diesel engines, manual and automatic transmissions, and Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or 4-Wheel Drive (4WD). The AX OPT is the purpose-built off-road variant, featuring essentials like a roll cage and vinyl seats, perfect for the purist. The LX (Luxury) variant is the more lifestyle-oriented choice, adding premium features like R18 alloy wheels, fabric upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, cruise control, and ESP. The introduction of RWD variants has made the iconic Thar accessible to a wider audience who desire the look and feel without the hardcore off-road hardware.
- AX OPT: The rugged, no-frills variant for the serious off-roader, available in 4WD.
- LX: The lifestyle variant with premium comfort, convenience, and technology features. Available in RWD and 4WD.
- Drivetrain Options: Both RWD and 4WD options are available, catering to city drivers and adventurers alike.
- Customization: Over 120 official accessories are available to personalize your Thar your way.
Full Specifications Table: Mahindra Thar
Engine & Performance
- Petrol Engine: 2.0L mStallion 150 TGDi
- Diesel Engines: 2.2L mHawk 130 / 1.5L D117 CRDe (RWD only)
- Max Power: 112 kW (Petrol) / 97 kW (mHawk Diesel)
- Max Torque: 320 Nm (Petrol AT) / 300 Nm (Diesel)
- Transmission: 6-Speed MT / 6-Speed AT
- Drivetrain: RWD / Manual Shift 4×4 with High & Low Range
Fuel Efficiency
- Fuel Type: Petrol / Diesel
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 57L (mHawk/mStallion) / 45L (D117)
- Real-World Mileage (Est.): 9-15 kmpl depending on variant
Suspension
- Front Suspension: Independent Double Wishbone with Coil Over Damper
- Rear Suspension: Multilink Solid Rear Axle with Coil Over Damper
Wheels & Tyres
- LX Variant: 255/65 R18 All-Terrain Tyres on Deep Silver Alloy Wheels
- AX OPT Variant: 245/75 R16 All-Terrain Tyres on Steel Wheels
Technology
- Infotainment: 17.8 cm Waterproof Touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay (LX)
- Driver Display: TFT Multi-Information Display
- Adventure Tech: Adventure Statistics, Tyretronics (TPMS), BlueSense App Connectivity (LX)
- Speakers: 4 Speakers + 2 Tweeters (Roof-mounted in LX)
Comfort & Convenience
- Seat Upholstery: Fabric (LX) / Vinyl (AX OPT)
- Key Features (LX): Cruise Control, Height Adjustable Driver Seat, Power Windows, Remote Keyless Entry
- Practicality: Washable Floor with Drain Plugs, Removable Doors
Variants & Pricing
- Main Variants: AX OPT / LX
- Drivetrain: RWD / 4WD
- Top Option: Hard Top
- Estimated Price Range: ₹11.5 Lakh – ₹17.5 Lakh (Ex-Showroom)
Ownership
- Customization: Over 120 official accessories for personalization
- Colours: Available in 6 exciting colours including Red Rage and Deep Forest
Comparisons: Thar vs Jimny vs Gurkha
The Thar reigns supreme in the lifestyle off-roader segment. Against the Maruti Suzuki Jimny, the Thar offers significantly more powerful petrol and diesel engine options, a more commanding road presence, and larger R18 tyres, making it a better all-rounder for both on-road and off-road use. While the Jimny is nimble, the Thar provides superior power and stability. Compared to the Force Gurkha, the Thar boasts a far more modern and comfortable interior, a smoother automatic transmission option, and a wider service network. The Gurkha is a hardcore, purpose-built machine, but the Thar strikes a much better balance between extreme capability and everyday usability, making it the more practical choice for most buyers.
Vs. Jimny:
More power and road presence; a better all-rounder for mixed usage.
Vs. Gurkha:
More modern and refined; superior daily usability and comfort features.
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View
Pros:
- Unmatched Off-Road Capability: With its 4×4 system, high ground clearance, and robust construction, it’s virtually unstoppable.
- Iconic and Timeless Design: The Thar has immense road presence and a classic appeal that turns heads everywhere.
- Powerful Engine Options: Both petrol and diesel engines provide strong performance for any situation.
- Vastly Improved On-Road Manners: The new suspension makes it a comfortable daily driver, not just a weekend toy.
Cons:
- Limited Practicality: As a 4-seater with limited luggage space, it’s not ideal as a primary family vehicle.
- Firm Ride Quality: While improved, the body-on-frame ride is still firmer than monocoque SUVs.
- Wind Noise at High Speeds: The boxy design and removable top options can lead to more wind noise on the highway.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Mahindra Thar is an outstanding choice for:
- The Hardcore Off-Roader: Someone who needs a vehicle that can genuinely tackle the toughest terrains right out of the showroom.
- The Adventure Seeker: Individuals and couples who live an active lifestyle and need a capable companion for their explorations.
- The Style Icon: Buyers who want a vehicle that makes a bold statement and stands out from the crowd of conventional SUVs.
- The Second or Third Car Buyer: Someone looking for a fun and capable “weekend vehicle” to complement their daily driver.
Final Verdict: The Undisputed King of Adventure
The All-New Mahindra Thar is a triumph of engineering and design, successfully blending its legendary off-road DNA with the comfort and technology required for the modern age. It delivers on its promise to “Explore The Impossible” with a mechanical package that is second to none in its class. The addition of a powerful petrol engine, a smooth automatic gearbox, and a vastly more comfortable interior has broadened its appeal immensely. While it may have compromises in practicality compared to a traditional family SUV, it makes none in its core purpose: to deliver unadulterated fun and freedom. For the person who hears the call of the wild, who sees a trail and wonders where it leads, the Thar isn’t just a vehicle; it’s the answer. It is, without a doubt, the most capable and desirable lifestyle off-roader you can buy.
Overall Rating: 4.8 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)