Mahindra has plans to launch a 4 door Thar in the future – No plans to launch a Thar pickup as of now
After its unveil on August 15, all-new Mahindra Thar is scheduled for launch on October 2. The off-roader has generated immense interest among auto enthusiasts and we are also witnessing a number of digital renders created by designers. Some of these include all-new Thar rendered as a next-gen Armada 4-door SUV and a police car.
The latest render comes from SRK Designs who have digitally transformed new Thar into a giant 6×6 pickup truck. The designers have shared the video on their YouTube channel, where one can see the entire digital modification from start to finish.
Key changes
As is evident, all-new Thar has been heavily modified in this project. At the front, the signature vertical grille has been replaced with a new unit that has horizontal slats. An exciting dual-tone colour theme of black and bright yellow has been used to enhance the SUV’s sporty profile. Another key addition is the auxiliary lights that are placed on the roof.
Talking about functional modifications, the SUV gets a crew-cab and a loading bed at the rear. The wheelbase has been extended to accommodate the additional axle. While the final render looks quite attractive and powerful, it is unlikely to be of any practical use in the real world. This is especially true if the modified vehicle continues using the stock engines that come with all-new Thar.
Inadequate power and torque for a 6×6
6×6 vehicles need a lot of power to drive the twin axles. These off-roaders usually have double or even triple the power and torque, as compared to Thar’s engine options.
All-new Thar will be launched with both diesel and petrol engine options. The 2.2 litre mHawk diesel engine generates 130 bhp of max power at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm of max torque at 1600-2800 rpm. It is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
Thar petrol variant is powered by the 2.0 litre mStallion engine that makes 150 bhp and 300 Nm (MT) / 320 Nm (AT). Transmission options are the same as that of diesel variant. These engines can certainly drive the imagined 6×6 Thar, but overall performance would be far from satisfactory. Moreover, it would turn the SUV into a fuel guzzler. Another thing is that such modifications are bound to be quite expensive and are unlikely to be street-legal.
If a 6×6 Thar is actually produced, it will also require major changes to the suspension and braking system. Experienced car modifiers can certainly make it possible, but it will still be a challenging project.
