KATHMANDU: Mahindra has launched the new Thar OG in India at an introductory price of 1.032 million Indian rupees, ex-showroom. The three-door SUV replaces the Thar launched in 2020.
The new Thar OG is available in three variants, AXT, LXT and ZXT with petrol and diesel engine options. Buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive.
The biggest update comes underneath the SUV. The Thar OG is based on Mahindra’s new M_Glyde 4G platform, which is stiffer than the previous architecture. It gets a Pentalink rear suspension with a Watts Link, along with Frequency Dependent Damping for the first time. The SUV also switches to electric power steering and gets additional insulation to reduce noise and vibrations inside the cabin.
Mahindra offers three engine options. The 2.0-liter G20 TGDi mStallion petrol engine produces around 160 hp and 330 Nm of torque. The 2.2-liter D22 mHawk diesel generates about 150 hp and 330 Nm, while the 1.5-liter D117 CRDe diesel continues with 117 hp and 300 Nm.
The four-wheel-drive versions get an Electronic Locking Differential and Mud, Sand and Snow terrain modes.
The exterior features a redesigned grille, round LED headlamps with C-shaped daytime running lights, new bumpers and updated tail lamps. The top-spec ZXT gets new 19-inch alloy wheels, while the fog lamps feature a cornering function. Two new color options, Artemis Silver and Jeans Blue, join the existing six shades.
Inside, the ZXT variant gets Truffle Brown leatherette seats. The second row also features a soft armrest with integrated cupholders.
Safety equipment has also been upgraded, particularly on the ZXT variant. It gets six airbags, including four HPTS airbags designed to protect the head, pelvis, chest and shoulders of passengers in the front and rear seats. The SUV also gets four-wheel disc brakes with Mahindra’s ESP 9.3 system.
Other safety features include front parking sensors, a rear-view camera and a tire pressure monitoring system. Equipment varies depending on the variant.
The Mahindra Thar is also one of the most anticipated off-road SUVs among Nepali auto enthusiasts. However, the model has yet to be officially launched in Nepal.
