Homegrown automaker Mahindra has been immensely successful with its Thar off-road SUV. To make it more accessible for buyers, the brand also recently introduced a RWD variant of the Thar. With no 4WD tech and a smaller engine, the prices also came down significantly thus boosting its sales.
Two days ago, the automaker crossed the 1 lakh production milestone for the Thar within just 2.5 years of production. But now, with the arrival of a tough competitor from Maruti Suzuki’s stable in the form of the Jimny 5-door, Mahindra will be doing all that it can retain the dominance of Thar in the market.
About The New Entry-Level 4×4 Variant of Thar
In a bid to make the pricing even more attractive, the SUV maker is planning to introduce a new entry-level variant for the Thar SUV. This will bring down the 4×4 Thar’s entry-level pricing to something close to the Jimny. It is likely to fascinate off-road enthusiasts as an alternative to the Jimny.
The new variant will offer four-wheel drive capabilities at a much lower price point. The Thar 4×4 is currently available in two variants: AX (O) and LX. The new entry-level variant will be positioned below the AX (O) trim. Reports also suggest that the new stripped-down variant could be called AX AC. It will miss out on some of the features offered in the AX (O). It is likely to be a 4-seater with forward-facing seats in the back.
Engines
The new entry-level Thar 4×4 will be offered with a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder mStallion petrol producing 150 BHP and 320 Nm and a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel that makes 130 BHP and 320 Nm. Both engines are expected to be paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Pricing
Currently, the diesel variants of the Thar retail in the price range of INR 9.99 lakh-16.49 lakh. Meanwhile, the petrol versions retail in the price range of INR 13.49 lakh-15.82 lakh. All prices mentioned are in the ex-showroom. Expect the New AX AC trim to be priced at around Rs 12.50 lakh (ex-showroom).