The Mahindra Thar has become one of the most iconic lifestyle SUVs in India. Built by Mahindra & Mahindra, the Thar is famous for its rugged design, off-road capability, and strong road presence.
After two years of ownership, here is a real-world look at how the Thar performs in terms of driving experience, comfort, mileage, maintenance, and everyday practicality.
Bold Design & Road Presence
One of the biggest reasons people buy the Thar is its iconic off-road styling.
What Makes the Design Special
- Classic boxy SUV design
- Round LED headlamps
- Large wheel arches
- Rear-mounted spare wheel
- Removable roof options in some variants
Even after two years, the Thar still attracts a lot of attention on the road.
Interior & Features
Compared to the previous generation, the new Thar offers a much more modern interior.
Key Features Owners Enjoy
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Cruise control
- Roof-mounted speakers
- Steering-mounted controls
While it’s not the most luxurious SUV, the cabin feels practical and durable for adventure use.
Engine Performance & Driving Experience
The Mahindra Thar is available with petrol and diesel engines.
Engine Options
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Turbo Petrol | 150 PS | 320 Nm | Manual / Automatic |
| 2.2L Diesel | 130 PS | 300 Nm | Manual / Automatic |
Driving Experience After 2 Years
City Driving
- High driving position gives good visibility
- Heavy steering at low speeds
- Large turning radius
Highway Driving
- Stable cruising at 100–110 km/h
- Wind noise noticeable at high speeds
- Comfortable for long trips
Off-Road Capability
This is where the Thar truly shines.
- 4×4 drivetrain
- High ground clearance
- Excellent traction on rough terrain
It easily handles mud, sand, rocks, and mountain trails.
Real-World Fuel Efficiency
Mileage varies depending on driving style and terrain.
| Engine | City | Highway |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 10 – 12 km/l | 13 – 14 km/l |
| Diesel | 13 – 15 km/l | 16 – 17 km/l |
For an off-road SUV, the mileage is acceptable but not its strongest point.
Comfort & Practicality
While the Thar is fun to drive, it does have some practical limitations.
Comfort Highlights
- Comfortable front seats
- Good suspension for rough roads
- High ground clearance
Practical Limitations
- Rear seat access is difficult
- Limited boot space
- Not ideal for large families
The Thar works best as a lifestyle or adventure vehicle rather than a daily family car.
Maintenance & Ownership Cost
The service network of Mahindra & Mahindra makes maintenance manageable.
Typical Annual Service Cost
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Routine Service | ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 |
| Major Service | ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 |
Parts availability and servicing are generally reliable across India.
What I Love After 2 Years
✔ Incredible off-road capability
✔ Iconic design and road presence
✔ Powerful engine options
✔ Strong build quality
✔ Fun driving experience
Things That Could Be Better
✖ Rear seat comfort and access
✖ Limited boot space
✖ High-speed wind noise
✖ Not the most practical daily SUV
2-Year Ownership Verdict
After spending two years with the Mahindra Thar, it remains one of the most exciting SUVs to own in India.
If you love adventure, road trips, and off-road driving, the Thar delivers an experience few SUVs can match.
⭐ Owner Satisfaction Rating: 4.5 / 5
