{{Short description|Compact SUV}} {{About-distinguish|the compact SUV|Thar Desert|Thar (film)}} {{Infobox automobile | name = Mahindra Thar | image = Mahindra Thar SUV in "Red Rage" color at Ashiana Brahmanda, East Singbhum India (Ank Kumar, Infosys limited) 02 (cropped).jpg | manufacturer = [[Mahindra & Mahindra]] | aka = Mahindra Thar ROXX (5-door) | production = 2010–present | class = [[Compact SUV]] | body_style = {{unbulleted list | 2-door [[SUV]] | 5-door [[SUV]] (Thar ROXX) }} | layout = [[Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout|Front engine]], [[four-wheel drive]] | predecessor = [[Mahindra Major|Mahindra MM530]] | successor = }}
The '''Mahindra Thar''' is a [[compact SUV]] manufactured by Indian automaker [[Mahindra & Mahindra]]. It was introduced on October 4, 2010 and replaced the [[Mahindra Major]].
==Background== Named after the [[Thar Desert]], it was first introduced in 2010 as a modernized version of the [[Mahindra Major]], which was based on the [[Mahindra MM540]], which was in production in India since the 1980s. Its design is based on the [[Jeep CJ]] series, which Mahindra had been producing under license since the 1940s.
It was designed to be a rugged, reliable, and affordable off-road vehicle that could handle the rough terrain found in many parts of India. It has been well received by both off-road enthusiasts and the general public in India. It has become a popular vehicle for adventure enthusiasts, as it is capable of handling some of the most challenging terrains in India.
== First generation (2010)== {{Infobox automobile | name = First generation | image = Mahindra Thar in dark red.jpg | aka = | production = 2010–2020 | assembly = India: [[Nasik]], [[Maharashtra]] | related = [[Mahindra Roxor]] | engine = {{ubl | 2.53 L ''MDi3200TC DI'' [[Turbo-diesel|turbodiesel]] [[Straight-four engine|I4]] | 2.5 L ''NEF TCI-CRDe'' turbodiesel I4 }} | transmission = 5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]] | wheelbase = {{cvt|2430|mm|in|1}} | length = {{cvt|3920|mm|in|1}} | width = {{cvt|1726|mm|in|1}} | height = {{cvt|1930|mm|in|1}} }} [[File:Mahindra Thar in maroon, rear right.jpg|alt=|left|thumb|Rear view]] The Mahindra Thar was launched in the [[Automotive industry in India|Indian market]] on October 4, 2010<ref>{{Cite web |title=About the Thar |url=http://www.mahindrathar.com/evolution.aspx |access-date=2012-02-05 |archive-date=2015-05-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150504040052/http://www.mahindrathar.com/evolution.aspx |url-status=dead }}</ref> to fill the void left by its predecessor, the Mahindra MM540. Three variants - DI 2WD, DI 4WD, and CRDe, are available with soft-top versions. It also comes with a seven-seater option, though it can be converted into a two-seater.
It was powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine that produced {{cvt|63|hp|kW PS|0}} and {{cvt|182|Nm|lbft|0}} of torque. The vehicle was available in two trim levels: the DI 2WD and the DI 4WD. The DI 2WD was a basic version that came with a soft top and no air conditioning, while the DI 4WD came with air conditioning and a hardtop.
In 2015, Mahindra introduced an updated version of the Thar called the Thar CRDe. CRDe is an acronym for "[[common rail|common rail diesel engine]]," which was a more advanced engine that produced {{cvt|105|hp|kW PS|0}} and {{cvt|247|Nm|lbft|0}} of torque. The Thar CRDe also had updated safety features, such as airbags and ABS, and was available in two trim levels: the CRDe 4WD and the CRDe 4WD AC.
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===Mahindra Roxor=== {{Main|Mahindra Roxor}} The [[Mahindra Roxor]] was unveiled by Mahindra Automotive North America on March 2, 2018. It is a variant of the Thar for United States market, assembled in [[Auburn Hills, Michigan]] from [[Knock-down kit|complete knock-down]] kits. Unlike the Thar, the Roxor is not street legal, and is positioned as a [[Side by Side (UTV)|side-by-side]] [[off-road vehicle]] with a top speed of 45 mph. The Roxor is powered by a 2.5 L turbodiesel, four-cylinder engine producing 62 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque, mated to a five-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission is available as an option. It is only available with two seats, a 148-inch body length, and a 96-inch wheelbase.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Mahindra Roxor Is A Tiny Offroad Jeep That You Can Totally Buy In America|date=2 March 2018 |url=https://jalopnik.com/the-mahindra-roxor-is-a-tiny-offroad-jeep-to-conquer-am-1823460351}}</ref>{{clear}}
== Second generation (W501; 2020) == {{Infobox automobile | name = Second generation | image = Mahindra Thar SUV in "Red Rage" color at Ashiana Brahmanda, East Singbhum India (Ank Kumar, Infosys limited) 02.jpg | aka = [[Mahindra Thar ROXX]] (5-door) | production = 2020–present | assembly = India: [[Nashik]], [[Maharashtra]] | engine = {{ubl | '''[[Petrol engine|petrol]]:''' | 2.0 L ''mStallion'' [[Turbocharger|turbo]] [[Straight-four engine|I4]] | '''[[Diesel engine|diesel]]:''' | 1.5 L ''4D15'' [[Turbo-diesel|turbo]] I4 | 2.2 L ''[[Mahindra mHawk engine|mHawk]]'' turbo I4 }} | transmission = 6-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]<br>6-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]] | wheelbase = {{cvt|2450|mm|in|1}} | length = {{cvt|3985|mm|in|1}} | width = {{cvt|1820-1855|mm|in|1}} | height = {{cvt|1844-1920|mm|in|1}} | model_code = W501 }} [[File:Mahindra Thar SUV in "Red Rage" color at Ashiana Brahmanda, East Singbhum India (Ank Kumar, Infosys limited) 03.jpg|alt=Rear view|left|thumb|Rear view]] The second-generation Mahindra Thar was introduced on August 15, 2020. It was a complete redesign of the vehicle, and it became available for sale in October 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mahindra Thar Features|url=https://www.autokhabar.in/2020/09/5-door-mahindra-thar-greenlit-for.html|website=Auto Khabar|language=en|access-date=2020-10-04|archive-date=2020-10-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011215158/https://www.autokhabar.in/2020/09/5-door-mahindra-thar-greenlit-for.html|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=New Mahindra Thar revealed|url=https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/new-mahindra-thar-revealed-418330|access-date=2020-08-15|website=Autocar India|language=en}}</ref>
It modernized design that features a bold grille, LED headlights, and a hardtop roof. It comes with two engine options, a 2.0-litre petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. Both are offered with a choice of 6-speed automatic transmission (with a [[torque converter]] gearbox) made by [[Aisin]] or 6-speed manual transmission. The Thar also has updated suspension and drivetrain components including [[Multi-link suspension|multi-link rear suspension]], as well as a range of new features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and an adventure statistics display.
The Thar 2020 is available in two trim levels: the base AX and the more premium LX. Customers have the option to choose between a hard top, soft top or soft top with a convertible-like folding down mechanism. In 2023 the W503 Thar got 4D15 rwd verson.<ref>{{Cite web|title=New Mahindra Thar (video Included) - Automobiles|url=https://info1.net/business/automobiles/new-mahindra-thar-video-included/|access-date=2020-08-19|website=Info1|language=en-US|archive-date=2020-10-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028121602/https://info1.net/business/automobiles/new-mahindra-thar-video-included/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=2020 Mahindra Thar breaks cover; to be launched in October|url=https://in.news.yahoo.com/2020-mahindra-thar-breaks-cover-093002974.html|access-date=2020-08-15|website=in.news.yahoo.com|language=en-IN}}</ref>
=== 2025 facelift ===
In October 2025, [[Mahindra & Mahindra]] launched a facelifted version of the second-generation '''Mahindra Thar''' in [[India]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Deepak |first=Aryan |date=2025-11-08 |title=Mahindra Thar Car Price, Features And Review 2025 Guide |url=https://tharcar.com/ |access-date=2025-11-09 |website=tharcar.com |language=en-US}}</ref> The update focused on subtle exterior revisions, new convenience features, and interior upgrades while retaining the existing powertrain lineup.<ref name="autocar2">{{cite news |date=2 October 2025 |title=2025 Mahindra Thar facelift launched at ₹9.99 lakh |url=https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/2025-mahindra-thar-facelift-launched-at-rs-999-lakh-437545 |work=Autocar India}}</ref>
On the outside, the facelift featured a new body-coloured grille, a dual-tone bumper with silver inserts, and two new paint options '''Tango Red''' and '''Battleship Grey''' while retaining the vehicle’s characteristic round headlamps and boxy design.<ref name="cardekho2">{{cite news |date=2 October 2025 |title=2025 Mahindra Thar facelift launched: Prices start from ₹9.99 lakh |url=https://www.cardekho.com/india-car-news/2025-mahindra-thar-facelift-launched-prices-start-from-rs-999-lakh-35122.htm |work=CarDekho}}</ref>
Inside, the Thar featured an all-black cabin with a redesigned dashboard, a steering wheel shared with the [[Mahindra XUV700|XUV700]], and repositioned power-window switches on the doors. Additional updates included rear [[Air conditioning|AC]] vents, individual armrests, a sliding centre armrest, and a grab handle on the A-pillar.<ref name="hindustantimes2">{{cite news |date=2 October 2025 |title=2025 Mahindra Thar facelift: Five key changes to know |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/car-bike/2025-mahindra-thar-facelift-launched-5-key-changes-to-know-101759472698118.html |work=Hindustan Times Auto}}</ref>
A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen [[infotainment system]] with [[Android Auto]], [[Apple CarPlay]], and off-road statistics was introduced, along with a rear-view camera, rear wiper and washer, and connected-car telematics.<ref name="autocarreview2">{{cite news |date=3 October 2025 |title=2025 Mahindra Thar review: All about the details |url=https://www.autocarindia.com/car-reviews/2025-mahindra-thar-review-all-about-the-details-437556 |work=Autocar India}}</ref>
The facelift retained the same engine lineup as before - a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre diesel, and 2.2-litre diesel - paired with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions in both rear-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations. At launch, prices ranged from ₹9.99 lakh to ₹16.99 lakh (ex-showroom, India).<ref name="cardekho2" />
=== Mahindra Thar ROXX (W502; 2024) === {{Main|Mahindra Thar ROXX}} [[File:Mahindra Thar ROXX on dirt.jpg|thumb|right|Mahindra Thar ROXX]] The W502 Thar ROXX was teased by Mahindra on 20 July 2024, a 5-door version of the Thar. It was launched on August 15, 2024. With a redesigned [[Grille (car)|grille]], new [[LED headlights]] and [[tail lamps]], 10.27-inch touchscreen infotainment, [[Sunroof|panoramic sunroof]] and [[Advanced driver assistance system|ADAS]] as well a dual-tone alloy coating.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mahindra Thar 5-door Now Called Thar ROXX, First Look At Its Exterior Design Ahead Of August 15 India Debut |url=https://www.cardekho.com/india-car-news/mahindra-thar-5door-now-named-thar-roxx-check-out-its-exterior-design-ahead-of-august-15-debut-32857.htm |access-date=2024-07-20 |website=CarDekho |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Mahindra Thar 5-Door Revealed; Named Thar Roxx |url=https://www.ndtv.com/auto/mahindra-thar-5-door-revealed-named-thar-roxx-6147486 |access-date=2024-07-20 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> The White colour seats are discontinued and it was replaced with the Mocca Grey seat colour. The engine that Roxx got was D22 MHawk with 4X4 and G20 MSTALLION only in 4X2 both engine 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter.
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== Safety == The [[Global NCAP]] 1.0 crash-tested the second-generation Mahindra Thar in its basic safety specification of two [[Airbag|airbags]] and [[Isofix]] anchorages in 2020 (similar to [[Latin NCAP]] 2013). It achieved four stars for adult protection, with its passenger compartment remaining stable in the offset frontal test. However, its footwell ruptured during the test. The car was penalised for instability of footwell response and for this reason Mahindra was denied the opportunity of demonstrating that sharp structures in the dashboard could prove benign to the knees of differently sized occupants. Hence Global NCAP penalised the knee areas and the vehicle could not achieve the maximum five star rating for adult protection.
Nevertheless, Mahindra requested an ECE side impact test for the Thar, in which the car passed this basic test despite not being fitted with side airbags.<ref>{{Citation|title=Mahindra THAR side impact| date=25 November 2020 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWuNJXBcD7o |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/xWuNJXBcD7o |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|language=en|access-date=2021-06-13}}{{cbignore}}</ref> The driver's seat in the Mahindra Thar is high enough for the car to be exempted from this regulation, but Global [[New Car Assessment Program|NCAP]] required that the test be performed nevertheless. However, since the Thar lost crucial points in the frontal impact, the side impact had no influence on the result.
The Mahindra Thar was sold in a basic trim level with side-facing rear seats. These seats were not fitted with three-point seatbelts or ISOFIX anchorages and would render the vehicle unsuitable for safely transporting children, which would cause Global NCAP to award the car no stars for child occupant protection. Global NCAP warned Mahindra to withdraw this variant of the Thar from the market, failing which they would publish a result of this basic variant in addition to the tested variant. Global NCAP only agreed to publish the result of a variant with forward-facing seats after sales of the basic variant were stopped,<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-11-09|title=New Mahindra Thar AX Std and AX variants removed from the website; discontinued?|url=https://www.carwale.com/news/new-mahindra-thar-ax-std-and-ax-variants-removed-from-the-website-discontinued/|access-date=2022-02-25|website=CarWale|language=en}}</ref> making forward-facing seats the basic specification for the model.
Mahindra also requested Global NCAP to test the Thar's optional [[electronic stability control]]. The model met minimum performance requirements for yaw rate in the UN's test with a steering robot, but it showed unstable dynamic behaviour with tendency to roll, and Global NCAP recommended an improvement, to deliver a more robust performance in real-life scenarios.<ref>{{cite web|title=Global NCAP tested Thar's ESC according to UN regulation| website=[[YouTube]] | date=25 November 2020 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vagr1yLQPTI |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/Vagr1yLQPTI |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|language=en|access-date=2021-06-13}}{{cbignore}}</ref>
The Thar is not fitted with side impact airbags for the body or head, even as an option.
{{Global NCAP |year=2020 |region=India |description=Mahindra Thar – 2 Airbags |reference_code=SaferCarsForIndia-Thar-factsheet-fw3m.pdf |adult_stars=4 |adult_points=12.52 |child_stars=4 |child_points=41.11 }}
== Sales == The second generation Thar sold over 185,000 units by August 2024.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2024-08-14|title=Mahindra Thar sells over 185,000 units in less than four years|url=https://www.autocarpro.in/analysis-sales/mahindra-thar-sells-over-185000-units-in-less-than-four-years-122025?=1|access-date=2024-10-14|website=Autocar Professional India|language=en}}</ref>
== Awards == The Mahindra Thar ROXX has been awarded as [[Car of the Year|Car Of The Year]] in 2024 by Autocar India.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Mahindra Thar Roxx, Bajaj Freedom 125 bag Autocar Awards 2025 |url=https://www.autocarpro.in/news/mahindra-thar-roxx-bajaj-freedom-125-bag-autocar-awards-2025-123911 |access-date=2025-03-26 |website=Autocar Professional |language=en}}</ref>
==References== {{Reflist}}
== External links == {{Commons category}} * {{official website|https://www.mahindrathar.com|Mahindra Thar}}
{{Mahindra and Mahindra vehicles}}
[[Category:Mahindra vehicles|Thar]] [[Category:Cars introduced in 2010]] [[Category:Compact sport utility vehicles]] [[Category:Off-road vehicles]] [[Category:Global NCAP small off-road]] [[Category:All-wheel-drive vehicles]] [[Category:2020s cars]]