The new variant of the Mahindra Thar hardtop is expected to be launched in September or October 2020 and is spotted frequently on the roads for test-drive. The off-road SUV is a production-spec prototype and though the launch is much anticipated it is taking longer than expected.
The design of the model will be updated with a new ladder-on-frame structure and will be available in both manual and automatic transmission variants. It is the second-generation Mahindra Thar, designed for the rougher terrains. The steel wheels spotted from the spy shot taken during the test drive, is an evident that the model what has been photographed is one of the mid-range versions of this range. The brand was expected to launch the model around March 2020 but it was pushed back indefinitely as the Corona Virus pandemic hit the country. The aim of the new model is to make it abuse-friendly and also offer better dynamic on the road. The overall design is based on the new ladder-on-frame chassis. A previous spy-shot of the new vehicle show a variant of a superior specific which can be easily identified from the 18-inch alloy shod and 255/65 R18 tyres. Another good news about the model upcoming model is that it will be available for the global market as well and will be exported to the various international markets of the brand from 2021.
Also Read: Mahindra Thar: More than just the Muscle
The latest spotting of the vehicle was done recently and it was heavily camouflaged but one can make out the white paint with black hardtop still. From the images one can also get an idea about the electrically controlled wing mirrors. There is also a black fender cladding along with a new front bumper design. The bonnet clamps are similar to the older version of the vehicle and it features seven-slot grille and a recessed round headlamps. For the top, one can either opt for the factory-fitted hardtop option or even get soft-top fittings. The new generation version of the Mahindra Thar is specifically designed to appeal consumers of family vehicle as the interior has been modernized with touchscreen display, auto-climate control, and digital instrument cluster. It is also expected to perform as good on-road as it does off-road.
Also Read: 2020 Mahindra XUV 300: Power on Wheels
The new generation model will be powered by a few variants of engine. These are the 2l TGDI mStallion Petrol motor which can produce 187bhp with 380Nm peak torque. The other option is expected to be diesel version 2.2l mHawk unit that product 140 bhp power. There will be 6-speed manual transmission and an automatic version is also expected to launch. The price range of the vehicle is expected to be INR 10-14 lakhs in the showroom. Force Gurkha and Maruti Suzuki Jimny are the most notable competitors the Mahindra Thar is likely to have post-launch.
Overall the launch of Mahindra Thar will give a lot to expect for commercial as well as domestic buyers. The reinforced on-road dynamics also make it appealing to buyers living in plains and more convenient terrains of the country.
