Mahindra Introduces The New Thar, Looks Like An Ugly Jeep Wrangler

Jeep and Mahindra have a complicated relationship, and it probably won’t get any better following the debut of the all-new Thar.

Looking like a Jeep Wrangler knockoff, the Thar has a seven slot grille which is flanked by circular headlights. That’s very Jeep-like, but the SUV features a bulky front bumper and squished fenders with black plastic flares.

Moving further back, there’s angled bodywork, square taillights and three different tops.  Customers can choose between a fixed soft top, a hard top and a “convertible” roof.

Also Read: Mahindra “Fixes” 2020 Roxor After Jeep Lawsuit, Now Looks Like A Toyota Land Cruiser

Mahindra didn’t say much about the interior, but it borrows heavily from the previous-generation Wrangler – even using circular air vents in similar locations. Drivers will also find a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, faux carbon fiber trim and a TFT display in the instrument cluster. Customers also choose between four and six person seating configurations.

Under the hood, two different engines are available including a 2.0-liter TGDi petrol that produces up to 150 hp (112 kW/ 152 PS) and 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque. Customers can also opt for a 2.2-liter mHawk diesel which cranks out 130 hp (97 kW / 132 PS) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) or 236 lb-ft (320 Nm) of torque [The company gave conflicting specs].

The engine can be paired to six-speed automatic and manual transmissions. They’re backed up by a standard four-wheel drive system.

While the Thar retains it body-on-frame construction, it adopts an all-new suspension that promises “better off-roading capability, as well as superior on-road handling and drive quality.” The company didn’t go into many specifics, but said the model has an independent front and rear multi-link setup.

Speaking off off-roading, the Thar has approach, departure and breakover angles of 41.8 °, 36.8° and 27 °, respectively. The company also says the SUV has 8.9 inches (226 mm) of ground clearance and a water fording ability of 25.6 inches (650 mm).

The Thar will be launched in India on October 2nd, and we can expect to learn more in the coming months.