As a true 44 off-road SUV, the Mahindra Thar has developed a cult following among Indian auto enthusiasts. Mahindra has now launched a new version of the vehicle, the Thar RWD, to start in 2023 in style. Mahindra is attempting to appeal to an even larger audience by offering the lifestyle SUV at a more affordable starting price of Rs. 9.99 Lakh rather than as a serious off-roader. Although the SUV is now offered with RWD, 4WD versions will still be offered for sale. Read on to learn everything there is to know about the Mahindra Thar RWD.
Thar RWD Exterior
Only slight aesthetic modifications from the standard 4×4 Thar are present on the exterior. The 4WD Thar no longer sports the 44 badging that is seen in many locations. Additionally, unlike the 4WD Thar, which offers a convertible soft top as an option, the RWD Thar does not come in a soft-top variant. In addition, Mahindra has added Blazing Bronze and Everest White to the RWD Thar’s colour scheme. The white colour, which was in high demand but was previously unavailable for the 4WD Thar, is now accessible.
Thar RWD: Interior & Feature Changes
Moving inside, the Thar RWD receives no major alterations or differences, and the basic interior design remains unchanged. Speaking particularly of alterations, the lost 4WD lever is immediately noticeable and has been replaced with a cubby hole for storage. Hill Descent Control, an ESC brake lock differential, and an inclinometer that was taken directly from the 4×4 Thar have all been included by Mahindra. The feature list is still the same, and it includes things like a 7″ touchscreen infotainment, 4 speakers, and TPMS.
Thar RWD: Powertrain
In addition to the apparent change from a 4×4 to a RWD drivetrain, this particular edition of the Thar has a few more changes.
In place of the more robust 2.2-liter mHawk engine, Mahindra currently offers a smaller 1.5-litre CRDe diesel engine from the XUV300. Instead of the 130 PS the larger 2.2-litre diesel engine is capable of, the engine can produce 118 PS and 300 Nm of torque. The RWD Thar is also available with the old 2.0-liter petrol engine, which produces the same 150 PS and 300 Nm of torque. As a result of the 4×4 system’s reduced weight, the Thar petrol is now substantially faster, and the diesel offers sufficient power as well.
When it comes to gearbox options, the 6-speed automatic gearbox is the only one available for the petrol engine, while the 6-speed manual transmission is the only one available for the new, smaller diesel engine. It should be noted that the 2.2-liter mHawk Diesel engine is still offered in 4×4 versions.
Thar RWD: Price & Variants
The Thar RWD’s main selling point is that it is significantly less expensive. Mahindra was able to sell the Thar at a much more approachable price point of Rs 9.99 lakhs because to cost savings from dropping the 44 and the installation of a smaller diesel engine. While only the Diesel Thar RWD AX trim is included in this price, the LX trim with the same powertrain options would set you back Rs 1 lakh more at Rs 10.99 lakh. If you want snappy performance, you would have to pay more than the Rs 13.49 lakhs for the fuel automatic.
Thar RWD: Verdict
The Thar will gain a wide range of new prospective customers by lowering its price, placing it in a whole new market segment. The Mahindra Thar RWD seems to succeed in achieving its main goal of providing a lifestyle vehicle for city dwellers who don’t need 4WD for off-roading but care about the commanding Jeep-like design, high ground clearance, and having a refined pair of engines. It gives you a comparable feeling of invincibility and most of the hard terrain skills. Try to book yours today early because waiting times may grow significantly. This is completed with a price that is sure to draw a lot of attention in its way.
