In the world of SUVs, few vehicles capture the spirit of rugged adventure quite like the Mahindra Thar series. The latest addition, the Mahindra Thar ROXX, takes this legacy to new heights by introducing a practical 5-door design while preserving the iconic off-road DNA that fans love. Launched in India in August 2024, this SUV blends toughness with everyday usability, making it a top choice for families who crave excitement on and off the beaten path. Whether you’re eyeing the Mahindra Thar ROXX price, specs, or features, this detailed guide breaks it all down in simple terms. Let’s dive into what makes the Thar ROXX a standout in the competitive SUV market.
A Brief History of the Mahindra Thar Legacy
The Mahindra Thar has roots tracing back to the classic Willys Jeep, evolving over decades into a symbol of Indian off-roading. The original 3-door Thar, relaunched in 2020, became a bestseller thanks to its bold looks and go-anywhere attitude. However, its limited rear space made it less ideal for families. Enter the Mahindra Thar ROXX – essentially the “big brother” with two extra doors, more room, and upgraded features. Built on the same robust platform as the Scorpio N, it addresses those pain points without compromising on the Thar’s core appeal. Priced starting from around ₹12.99 lakh (ex-showroom), it’s positioned as an affordable yet premium option in the mid-size SUV segment.
Striking Design and Exterior Features
The Mahindra Thar ROXX turns heads with its muscular, boxy silhouette that screams adventure. At first glance, it resembles the classic Thar but with refined touches for a more modern vibe. The front fascia boasts a six-slot grille flanked by C-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and projector headlamps, giving it a fierce, jeep-like stare. The body is longer than the 3-door version, thanks to an extended wheelbase that accommodates the rear doors seamlessly.
Key exterior highlights include:
- Rugged Build: High ground clearance (around 219mm) and tough cladding protect it from rough terrains.
- Wheels and Tires: 18-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels (depending on the variant) with all-terrain tires for superior grip.
- Roof Options: A hard-top metal roof for better insulation, or a panoramic sunroof on higher trims for an open-air feel.
- Rear Styling: A sideways-opening tailgate with a mounted spare wheel, plus a vertically opening rear windscreen for easy access.
Available in vibrant colors like Tango Red, Deep Forest, Stealth Black, and more, the Thar ROXX lets you personalize your ride. Its design isn’t just about looks – it’s engineered for durability, with water-wading depth up to 650mm, making it ready for monsoon drives or river crossings.
Spacious Interior and Comfort Upgrades
Step inside the Mahindra Thar ROXX, and you’ll notice a big leap in comfort compared to its 3-door sibling. The cabin feels premium with soft-touch materials, chrome accents, and a dual-tone dashboard that adds a touch of elegance. The 5-door layout means easier access to the rear seats, which now offer a 60:40 split-folding bench for flexible cargo space.
Comfort features that make daily drives enjoyable include:
- Seating: Ventilated leatherette front seats on top variants, with electric adjustment for the driver.
- Infotainment: A 10.25-inch touchscreen supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, paired with a Harman Kardon 9-speaker audio system for crystal-clear sound.
- Tech Perks: A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, 65W Type-C fast charging, and voice commands via Alexa or AdrenoX connectivity.
- Storage and Convenience: A cooled glovebox, ample cup holders, and a boot space of around 447 liters (expandable by folding seats).
Whether it’s a long highway trip or city commuting, the Thar ROXX prioritizes passenger comfort without feeling cramped – a game-changer for families.
Engine Options and Performance Breakdown
Under the hood, the Mahindra Thar ROXX offers powerful yet efficient engines to suit different driving styles. You get two main choices: petrol or diesel, both turbocharged for punchy acceleration.
- Petrol Engine: A 2.0-liter mStallion unit delivering 160-174 bhp and 330-380 Nm of torque. It’s smooth for city use and hits 0-100 km/h in under 10 seconds on automatic variants. Fuel efficiency? Around 12.4 kmpl (ARAI-certified), with real-world figures between 13-15 kmpl.
- Diesel Engine: The 2.2-liter mHawk diesel produces 150-172 bhp and 330-370 Nm, ideal for torque-heavy off-roading. It offers better mileage at 15.2 kmpl (ARAI), with users reporting 13-14 kmpl in mixed conditions.
Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or automatic (torque converter) for effortless shifts. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard, but diesel models can upgrade to 4×4 for true off-road prowess. On the road, it handles bumps well thanks to independent front suspension, though it’s not as refined as urban crossovers – expect some body roll on sharp turns.
Off-Road Capabilities: Where It Truly Shines
The Mahindra Thar ROXX isn’t just an SUV; it’s an off-road beast. With approach and departure angles of 41.7° and 36.1° respectively, it conquers steep inclines and rocky paths with ease. The 4×4 variants come with electronic locking differentials, brake-locking for slippery surfaces, and terrain modes like Snow, Mud, and Sand.
Special features include:
- Crawl Smart: Automatically manages throttle for low-speed crawling over obstacles.
- IntelliTurn: Reduces turning radius for tight maneuvers in tough spots.
- Electronic Controls: Hill descent control and traction control keep things stable.
Owners rave about its ability to tackle dunes, trails, and floods – perfect for weekend adventurers in India.
Advanced Safety Features for Peace of Mind
Safety is a strong suit for the Mahindra Thar ROXX, earning it praise in reviews. It comes standard with six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability program (ESP), and tire pressure monitoring. Higher trims add Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), including:
- Forward collision warning and autonomous emergency braking.
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go.
- Lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring.
Other essentials like a 360-degree camera, front/rear parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat mounts make it family-friendly. While crash test ratings from Global NCAP are pending, its sturdy ladder-frame chassis inspires confidence.
Variants, Pricing, and Buying Guide
The Mahindra Thar ROXX is available in multiple variants to fit budgets from ₹12.99 lakh to ₹23.39 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai). Key ones include:
- MX1 (Base): Starts at ₹12.99 lakh (petrol RWD manual) – basic features like touchscreen and safety essentials.
- MX3/MX5: Mid-range (₹14-18 lakh) with added comforts like sunroof and alloys.
- AX3/AX5/AX7 (Top): ₹18-23 lakh (diesel 4×4 auto) – loaded with ADAS, premium audio, and panoramic roof.
Prices vary by city, and there’s a temporary GST reduction until late 2024, saving up to ₹1.6 lakh. On-road costs add 10-15% for taxes and insurance. Check local dealers for the latest Mahindra Thar ROXX price and offers.
How It Stacks Up Against Competitors
In the mid-size SUV arena, the Thar ROXX faces rivals like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Harrier, and even its sibling, the Mahindra Scorpio N. What sets it apart? Unmatched off-road skills and lifestyle appeal. The Creta and Seltos are more city-focused with better fuel economy, but they can’t match the Thar’s rugged charm. For pure adventure, it’s a step above the standard Thar, offering more space at a similar price point.
Pros and Cons: Is It Right for You?
Pros:
- Spacious 5-door design for families.
- Powerful engines with refined performance.
- Top-notch off-road features and durability.
- Loaded with modern tech and safety aids.
- Great value for money, especially with current discounts.
Cons:
- Fuel efficiency could be better, especially on petrol variants.
- Ride quality feels bouncy on highways compared to softer SUVs.
- Rear seat comfort is average for long trips.
- Waiting periods can be long due to high demand.
- Limited boot space when all seats are up.
User reviews highlight its fun factor, with many calling it a “versatile daily driver” that doubles as an adventure machine. Ratings average 4.5/5 on platforms like CarWale, praising the build quality and features.
Final Verdict: Why Choose the Mahindra Thar ROXX?
The Mahindra Thar ROXX redefines what an off-roader can be – tough, feature-packed, and family-ready. If you’re searching for a vehicle that handles urban commutes as well as weekend escapes, this SUV ticks all boxes. With competitive Mahindra Thar ROXX specs, attractive pricing, and a blend of heritage and innovation, it’s no wonder it’s flying off showrooms. Ready to experience it? Head to your nearest Mahindra dealer for a test drive and see why the Thar ROXX is more than just an SUV – it’s a lifestyle statement.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your ride, the Thar ROXX promises endless adventures. Stay tuned for updates on new variants or colors, and share your thoughts in the comments below!
