Mahindra Five-door Thar: The automotive landscape in India is abuzz with anticipation as Mahindra gears up to introduce the Five-door Thar, a variant that promises to elevate the off-road experience to new heights. Scheduled for launch in mid-2024, this extended version of the iconic Thar SUV is set to captivate enthusiasts with its blend of rugged design, advanced features, and enhanced performance capabilities.

Launch Timeline and Positioning

Mahindra and Mahindra have confirmed the imminent arrival of the Five-door Thar, positioning it above the current three-door model. The launch timeline is slated for the middle of 2024, with Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director and CEO at Mahindra and Mahindra, announcing that this larger Thar SUV will hit Indian roads during the second quarter of the year. The pricing is estimated to range between Rs 12.50 lakh to Rs 18.50 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive option for adventure seekers.

Design and Features

1. Exterior Design:
   • New set of circular LED headlamps with projector setup.
   • Revised grille design.
   • Stylish alloy wheels.
   • Side-hinged tailgate with spare wheel mounted.
   • Rear door handles positioned vertically near the C-pillar.
   • LED tail lamps with new elements.
2. Interior Design:
   • Dual-tone theme for an up-market feel.
   • Larger touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
   • Practical and utility-focused cabin design.
   • Additional storage compartments and cubbies for convenience.
3. Powertrain:
   • Expected to be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine and a 2.2-litre diesel engine.
   • Engines likely to be retuned for optimal performance.
   • Manual and automatic transmission options available.
   • Expected to offer versatility for various driving conditions.
4. Safety Features:
   • Up to six airbags for passenger safety.
   • 360-degree camera for enhanced visibility.
   • ABS with EBD for improved braking.
   • ISOFIX child-seat anchors for secure seating.
   • Expected to include features like electronic stability control (ESC) and hill hold and descent control.

Performance and Powertrain

1. Engine Options:
   • Expected to offer a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine producing 200hp of power and 380Nm of torque.
   • Likely to feature a 2.2-liter diesel engine.
2. Transmission:
   • Both manual and automatic transmission options available.
3. Drive Configurations:
   • Expected to offer both four-wheel-drive (4WD) and rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setups.
4. Power Output:
   • The turbo-petrol engine in the 3-door variant produces 152 PS/300 Nm, while the diesel unit generates 132 PS/300 Nm.
   • The engines in the 5-door version may be tuned to a higher stage of performance, potentially closer to that of the Scorpio N.

This combination of powertrain options, transmission choices, and drive configurations is designed to provide a balance of power, efficiency, and off-road capability for the Mahindra Five-door Thar, ensuring a versatile driving experience across various terrains.

Competition and Expectations

The Mahindra Five-door Thar will enter a competitive segment challenging rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and the upcoming Force Gurkha 5-door. With its robust design, advanced features, and proven off-road capabilities, this variant is poised to set new benchmarks in the Indian SUV market, catering to enthusiasts seeking both style and adventure.

Conclusion

As the launch of the Mahindra Five-door Thar draws near, excitement mounts among off-road enthusiasts eager to experience its blend of ruggedness and sophistication. This extended version of the legendary Thar SUV promises a thrilling off-road adventure coupled with modern features and enhanced comfort. Stay tuned for the official launch of the Mahindra Five-door Thar and witness a new chapter unfold in India’s off-roading landscape.