Here’s another glimpse of the upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door undergoing rigorous high-altitude testing. The SUV was recently seen in Leh region. The competition in the rugged and budget-friendly off-road SUV category is intensifying. This is especially true with the entry of the 5-door Maruti Jimny. While the Thar has been a dominant force in this segment, the growing interest in off-roading has even got Jimny wooing buyers with the more practical 5-door layout. However, there’s still room in the market for a practical-yet-capable off-road SUV priced under Rs 20 lakh. And this is where the upcoming 5-door Thar, based on the Scorpio N platform, comes into picture. Let’s explore the exciting details of this new addition.
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Mahindra Thar 5-door Borrows Underpinnings from Scorpio N
The latest set of pictures offer a good look at the 5-door iteration of the iconic SUV from different perspectives, highlighting its substantial side view. Although it’s concealed by heavy camouflage, the distinct shape of the vehicle is evident. Several exterior elements resemble those of the regular Thar, including LED taillights and a rear-mounted spare tire. Notably, the side view reveals the additional doors and extended length of this version. Interestingly, this upcoming SUV seems to match the Mahindra Scorpio N in terms of its robust presence when viewed from the side.
The 5-door Mahindra Thar is expected to retain the same engine options as the 3-door variant. These options encompass a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel and a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine. The turbo-diesel engine produces 130 hp and 320 Nm of torque, while the turbo-petrol engine delivers 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Both engines offer a choice between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission, complete with a low-range transfer case. Additionally, the vehicle features a dedicated center differential with mechanical locking capabilities, enabling 4×4 functionality. With its shared underpinnings from the Scorpio N, this new model boasts larger dimensions. While the current Thar models are priced between Rs 10.98 lakh and Rs 16.94 lakh (ex-showroom), the 5-door version is anticipated to come at a slightly higher price point.
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What We Think
The growth of the niche off-roading segment is truly exciting. With the rising interest of adventure enthusiasts in off-road activities, there’s a growing demand for vehicles like the Mahindra Thar, Force Gurkha, and Maruti Jimny. While the Thar has a strong presence in this segment, it has faced limitations concerning cabin space and practicality. The introduction of the 5-door version aims to address this issue. While it won’t be the most luxurious in its class, the longer wheelbase shall provide ample space for the second row and cargo storage. We are eagerly anticipating the launch of the upcoming 5-door Mahindra Thar.
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