Mahindra has decided to launch the long-awaited five-door version of its popular Thar SUV, which has created excitement among SUV fans and families alike. The launch is set for August 15, 2024, which coincides with India’s Independence Day celebrations.
The five-door Thar is expected to be priced between ₹16-20 lakh ( approximately $19,000-$24,000), which makes it a more premium option than its three-door sibling. This pricing plan recognizes the new model’s greater features and increased ability.
Under the hood, Mahindra keeps to what works. The five-door Thar will be powered by the same powerful engines featured in the existing three-door model. Buyers will be able to choose between a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol and a 2.2-liter diesel engine. For those unfamiliar with automotive language, a turbo-petrol engine uses a turbine to drive more air into the engine, increasing power production, whereas a diesel engine often has higher fuel efficiency and torque, making it handy for off-road driving.
Both engines will be offered with either a 6-speed manual transmission, which allows the driver to select ratios, or a 6-speed automatic transmission, which switches gears automatically. This diversity of options allows drivers to select the optimum setup for their driving preferences and demands.
One of the most notable changes to the five-door Thar is its larger wheelbase. The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear wheels, and expanding it provides more interior room, especially for back passengers. This change covers one of the most common concerns leveled at the three-door model: its limited utility for families or groups.
Visually, the five-door Thar will retain the unique boxy form that is the same to the Thar design. However, Mahindra has made a few changes to freshen up the look. The front and rear bumpers – the vehicle’s protective shields – have been changed. The grille, or front part that admits air into the engine area, has been slightly modified.
The development of circular LED headlamps, as well as daytime running lights (DRLs), has improved lighting technology. LED fog lamps will also be included to improve visibility in inclement weather conditions. In keeping with modern design trends, the rear door handles will be located on the C-pillar, which is the vertical structure at the back of the passenger compartment.
The wheels also will be modified, with larger 19-inch alloy wheels replacing the current 18-inch wheels. This modification not only improves the vehicle’s appearance but also may increase its off-road capability.
Inside the cabin, Mahindra has made important changes to make the Thar attractive to a larger audience. A larger infotainment system (the central screen that controls entertainment and vehicle functions) will be prominently displayed. This system will have wireless smartphone connectivity, enabling for seamless integration of mobile devices.
The instrument cluster, which shows important details to the driver, will be totally digital, bringing the Thar in step with more expensive options on the market. A new steering wheel design and modified central console will help to create a more modern and comfortable cabin. The auto-dimming IRVM (Inside Rear View Mirror) is a clever addition that automatically decreases glare from vehicle headlights behind, improving nighttime driving safety.
Comfort features aren’t ignored. The five-door Thar will include an electronically adjustable sunroof, allowing occupants to enjoy open-air driving at the push of a button. A front camera and front parking sensors will be installed to help with driving in tight areas, solving a prevalent issue with larger vehicles.
The launch of the five-door Thar is expected to shake up India’s compact SUV industry. It will compete directly with other tough products such as the five-door Force Gurkha and Maruti Suzuki Jimny. However, Thar’s great recognition and showed combination of comfort and capability may offer it an advantage in this competitive category.
As the launch date gets closer, excitement grows between vehicle fans and potential customers. The five-door Thar marks not only an expansion of Mahindra’s lineup, but also the evolution of an Indian automotive classic. It is unclear if it can effectively bridge the gap between rough off-roader and family-friendly SUV, but one thing is certain: the August 15, 2024 launch will be an important day in India’s automotive calendar.