The facelifted Mahindra Thar is here
The Mahindra Thar was first showcased at 2010 Auto Expo and although it wasn’t first time Mahindra was stepping into this category it definitely got a lot of attention from enthusiasts and as a lifestyle vehicle.Designed to tackle the harsh terrains the Armed forces encountered at the frontline during battle, the Jeep quickly found favour among civilian population is well who, in many cases, had to put up with similar terrain in rural areas. Mahindra has always been known for its go-anywhere capabilities and solid built quality. When they first showcased the Thar, it wasn’t just for the enthusiast, but the general urban crowd who were looking something a bit different from the usual crop of hatchbacks and sedans. Read our 2015 Mahindra Thar Test Drive Review below to know more-
[box type=”shadow” ]Also See – 2015 Mahindra Thar Launch Report[/box]
The latest iteration go the Mahindra Thar now comes with only the 2.5 litre CRDe motor which produces 105 bhp of peak power and 247 Nm of torque. Mahindra kept the trademark classic jeep design, but with a more refined engine and more comfort and style. The new 2015 facelifted Thar comes with minor Exterior and major Interior changes with the addition of a mechanical locking rear differential.
Exteriors
If we talk about its Exterior there are a fair few changes that have been made to the 2015 model. The enhanced exterior comes with a new front bumper which gets extra plastic cladding to comply with new Government regulations and a new rear bumper, muscular wheel arches , new clear lens headlamps for better visibility, redesigned side foot steps and a slightly revised canopy designed which is slightly raked at the back and new wipers.
Interiors
Let’s talk about Interiors. Compared to the outgoing model, the interiors look fresh and much more premium now with the dual tone finish and chrome highlights. Mahindra has fitted the Thar with more comfortable and wider seats, New steering with better grip, new door trims, and an armrest. The A/C vents have been redesigned to look more classy and stylish. Other changes include cup holders, new windshield, new gear knob, 12V charging point. The new Thar also has a provision for a 2 DIN audio system and lockable glove box. The new dials are easily one of the most attractive changes made to the Thar.
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Despite the improved interior design and added features, the Thar fails to impress in terms of quality and fit and finish. The plastic quality is not up to the mark and is very rough edges.
Video Review
Ride & Handling
The new 2015 Thar 4×4 CRDe gets enhanced off-roading skills with a 44 degree approach angle and 27 degree departure angle which is quite impressive. Its powerful 2,498cc CRDe engine with 105 bhp has enough punch for some serious off roading enhanced further by a ground clearance of 200mm.
The good news for Off-Road enthusiasts is that Mahindra has kitted the Thar with a mechanical locking rear differential technology which engages automatically without intervention from the driver and adds to its go anywhere credentials.
[box type=”shadow” ]Also See – New Mahindra Bolero Spy Pics & Details[/box]
Out on Mahindra’s test track, the Thar performed well and it urges you to push it more and attack more challenging obstacles. The engine is responsive with a good amount of torque which helps while navigating through sticky situations. The new steering is easy to use and responsive enough for quick turns when off-roading.
Final Word
All in all, the Mahindra Thar does what it was meant to do quite well and is now much more usable as a lifestyle vehicle in the urban environment than before. Plus, the iconic styling is actually reason enough to buy for a lot of people.
The 2015 Mahindra Thar is priced at INR 8.03 lakhs (ex-showroom, Nashik).
Pics
So what do you think of the 2015 Mahindra Thar Test Drive Review? Do let us know via the comments section below and stay tuned to CarBlogIndia for more news and reviews from the automotive world.
