Key features that set Maruti Jimny apart from Mahindra Thar

Delhi : On June 7, Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) will formally introduce the Jimny to the local market. There will be a total of two models available: Zeta and Alpha. Although the three-door Mahindra Thar and the five-door Jimny won't directly compete against one another, given the use case, it appears that both are lifestyle off-road SUVs.

The India-specific Jimny will be loaded with goodies and will be bigger in stature than the three-door variant sold worldwide. Costs will range from Rs. 10.5 lakh for the basic model to Rs. 13.5 lakh (ex-showroom). While the Jimny receives improved features, the Mahindra Thar has superior ground clearance and more powerful engines (two petrol and one diesel as compared to just one petrol).

In terms of security, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny comes standard with six airbags, whereas the Thar just has two (airbags for the driver and front passenger sides). Both vehicles have ABS and EBD, HDC (Hill Descent Control), HHA (Hill Hold Assist), and BLSD (Brake Limited Slip Differential), although the Thar has ESP (Electronic Stability Programme) and rollover mitigation whereas the Jimny does not.

First-in-segment LED headlights and headlamp washer are standard on the five-door Jimny, as opposed to halogen ones in the Thar sans washer. The headlight washer will come in helpful for cleaning off dirt, especially while driving off-road. Daytime Running Lights are equipped on both off-road vehicles. The automated temperature control system is another important advantage the Jimny has over the Thar.

In normal driving situations, it will undoubtedly be a significant issue. Another characteristic that the Jimny has that the Mahindra Thar does not have is the ability to electrically fold the wing mirrors. Additionally, the Jimny has a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the base model and a more modern nine-inch system in the top-end trim.

On the other hand, the Jimny is definitely superior in terms of the user interface and experience, while the Thar is only offered with a seven-inch device. Before its market debut later this year or in the early months of 2024, Mahindra is anticipated to reveal the five-door Thar in the upcoming months.