Once regarded as rudimentary and uninspiring, Thar has come a long way in establishing itself as a desirable lifestyle off-roader. 1st generation Thar was conceived as the successor to legendary Mahindra MM540. First launched in 2010, it received a facelift in 2015 and stayed in production till 2020. This is when 2nd generation was launched and rest is well known.
With soaring popularity and demand, Thar’s waiting list is pretty much off the charts as well. Now Mahindra is set to launch a 5-door version of this lifestyle off-roader in India. Test mules are springing up often and the more recent spy shots reveal further info about the upcoming SUV. We now get a closer look at the front, rear as well as the side view of new Thar 5 door. Let’s take a look.
As confirmed by R Velusamy, Mahindra Senior VP & Head of Automotive Product Development, Thar 5-Door model will be based on a modified version of Scorpio N’s ladder frame chassis. This is a subtle hint that Mahindra is prioritising comfort, highway stability and everyday rideability with Thar 5-Door model.
This will make 3-Door version of Thar more suitable for off-road lovers as it comes with a far better ramp over angle owing to its shorter wheelbase. In other news, Mahindra recently stopped offering mechanically locking rear differential as standard fitment across Thar’s variants. This is a logical choice as most Thar buyers prefer style over substance.
That said, for off-road enthusiasts who just want a base-spec variant with a mechanically locking differential, now have to opt for top-spec variants. This hints to us that Mahindra might not offer a 4X4 transfer case as standard fitment on upcoming Thar 5-Door model.
This way, buyers who just want a Thar for its macho looks and practicality of 5-Doors and will never go off-road, get the perfect match. Mahindra might also be able to price the upcoming Thar 5-Door model appropriately and drive sales to new heights.
As seen with previous spy shots, Thar 5-Door model interiors were revealed. It seems to have adequate room for its intended passengers. Dashboard and center console are completely identical to the 3-Door model. Under the bonnet, it is powered by the same 2.0L petrol and 2.2L diesel engines mated to 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options.
In the Thar, the 2.2L diesel engine makes 130 bhp and 300 Nm of torque while the 2.0L petrol engine makes 150 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. With added weight and size, Mahindra might retune Thar 5-Door model to make more power and torque. Transmission options are likely to be the same and 4X4 might not be a standard fitment. Launch of 5 door Thar is expected later this year.