Mahindra Thar RWD launched in India - All you need to know
Delhi : Rear-wheel drive (RWD) versions of Mahindra's second-generation Thar have been introduced in India, with prices beginning at Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Although there will be noticeable modifications underneath, the Thar RWD will be offered with both petrol and diesel engine options, similar to the 4WD variants. The new Thar RWD is offered in AX(O) and LX trim levels, just like the Thar 4x4.
The same 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine with 150 horsepower from the 4WD model continues to power the petrol vehicle. Similar to the 4WD model, only a 6-speed automatic transmission is offered here. The Thar's diesel engine, meanwhile, is brand-new. The 1.5-liter CRDe engine from the XUV300 and Marazzo replaces the 2.2-liter mHawk 130 diesel and produces 117 bhp and 300 Nm of torque, a 13 bhp decrease even though torque is the same. Additionally, the new diesel has engine stop-start technology. There is no automatic transmission available for the diesel engine, which is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. Additionally, the RWD versions do not include the 4x4 model's off-road-specific hardware.
There haven't been many cosmetic changes since the Thar 4x4; the biggest outward change is the absence of the 4x4 badges on the rear fenders. Mahindra has also moved some switchgear on the dashboard, replacing the second lever for the 4WD system inside with an additional storage pocket. Two new colour choices for the RWD are available as well: Blazing Bronze and Everest White. There is no option for a folding soft-top, unlike the 4x4 variants.
The Thar RWD still comes equipped with features like remote locking, a rear defogger, USB ports, driver seat height adjustment, cruise control, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a tyre pressure monitoring system, dual airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, and ESP.
The mechanical modifications and removal of the 4x4 hardware have significantly reduced the price of the Thar 2WD in comparison to the 4x4. The price difference between the petrol and 4x4 models is currently around Rs. 2.33 lakh, while the diesel vehicles are up to Rs. 4.20 lakh more inexpensive.
The launch rates, according to Mahindra, are only good for the first 10,000 reservations, and deliveries will start on January 15, 2023.
With a co-developed electronic brake locking differential from Bosch, Mahindra has also redesigned the Thar 4x4 for 2023. Although owners of the Thar 4x4 LX Diesel have the option of a Mechanical Locking Differential, Mahindra claims that the new technology will make driving the SUV in poor grip settings easier. For 2023, Mahindra is also providing new accessory packages for the Thar, with customers now having the option to add rear armrests with cupholders and USB charging ports.
