Top 5 Features That Make the Mahindra Thar a Cult Favourite
The Mahindra Thar needs no introduction. Whenever there is a discussion of rugged off-roaders with an iconic design, the Thar is one name that comes up. Its popularity is so high that people recognise it by just its silhouette. For the elderly, it brings fond memories, and for the younger generations, it is a car they aspire to drive. But what exactly contributes to this fame? Let's take a closer look at the top five features of the Thar that make it a cult favourite.
1. Exterior Design Elements: Traditional yet Modern
The exterior design of the Mahindra Thar plays a big role towards its popularity amongst the masses. The Thar offers a commanding demeanour with its adventurous stance, flat, bold bonnet and elongated wheelbase. It offers a rugged nature that SUV enthusiasts love. The Thar’s muscular profile is enhanced by its 18-inch alloy wheels, wider tyres and asymmetric wheel arches, which make it ready for both city and off-road. It retains its retro features with modern-day oomph. Key features are:
-An iconic front profile, with its distinctive front grille paired with minimal round headlamps.
-Fender-mounted daytime running LED lamps for peak visuals
-Bonnet clamps and detachable doors.
The raised bonnet line is not just for safety, but also supports its powerful, upright nature. It offers three roof options: hardtop, softtop, and convertible, combined with a bold colour scheme. The Thar seamlessly combines the old with the new.
2. Robust Engine, Powerful Performance
The Thar has next-generation D117, TGDi, and mHawk 130 diesel engines. The 1997 cc mStallion 150 TGDi petrol engine offers a maximum power of 150.19bhp@5000rpm and maximum torque of 320Nm@1250-3000rpm. It has 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual gearbox options.
The 1497 cc D117 CRDe diesel engine generates 116.93bhp@3500rpm power and 300Nm@1750-2500rpm torque. It only gets the 6-speed manual gearbox. The 2184 cc mHawk 130 CRDe engine offers a power of 130.07bhp@3750rp and torque of 300Nm@1600-2800rpm. It comes with a 6-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual transmission choice. Mileage falls between 9 km/l and 15.2 km/l.
The drivetrain offers a smooth shift from 4x2 to 4x4. Optimal off-roading traction and balanced handling are experienced with the Independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. The 3rd generation body-on-frame construction chassis tackles every road with ease.
3. Comfort & Entertainment Features Explored
Whether you're an off-roader or a city driver, the Thar's cabin offers the right balance of sophistication and comfort. It has a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, electrically operated AC, cruise control and a digital tube-type MID. With the IP54-rated dust and water-resistant interiors, you never need to fear the elements when heading out for an adventure.
Sporty front seats ensure that you are strapped to your seat even when driving on tough ground. The rear seats, in a 50:50 split, provide comfort on long distances and can be folded to allow additional boot space. The roof-mounted speakers are a standout feature, ensuring that you can listen to music even when wading through knee-deep water.
This, combined with the central door locking system and the remote flip key, makes the Thar practical and adventurous.
4. Functional Technology that Matters
The Thar comes with modern technology to make every ride more connected and safe. Top features include:
-An Adventure Statistics System to track all vital stats and information.
-Smartphone and smartwatch connectivity through the Blue Sense App.
5. Safety Features, the Thar Guarantee
The Mahindra Thar has a 4-star safety rating from Global NCAP. Whether you need to take sharp turns or require a controlled uphill or downhill journey, the Thar guarantees safety in every terrain. Its top safety amenities are:
-ESP with Roll-over Mitigation
-Hill Hold & Hill Descent Control
-ABS with EBD & Brake Assist
-ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts on Rear Seats
-Roll Cage
-3-Point Seat Belts for Rear Passengers
-Snow Chain Provision for Tyres
-Speed Sensing Front Door Locks
-Panic Braking Signal
-Vehicle Over-speed Warning
-Passenger Airbag Deactivation Switch
All of these features ensure that all passengers stay safe, whether you are cruising city streets, highways or off-road.
Conclusion: Not Just a Car, But A Legacy
The Thar offers the looks, features and performance that have stood the test of time. It offers what is needed and what matters. Although not a feature, one aspect that undoubtedly contributes to the popularity of the Thar is that it is made in India. The pride of owning a car so powerful that it is designed and produced locally is its biggest strength. It has truly built a legacy, the roots of which go back to 1949. It is a car that has been driven by generations and passed on to generations.
Disclaimer: The above content is provided by third-party agencies. First India is not responsible for its accuracy or reliability. Readers should verify independently.
