Mahindra Thar OG

On the surface, the updates to the Mahindra Thar might seem minor and largely inconsequential even. However, extensive revisions have been made under the skin, which now make this hot favourite SUV an even better package. Launched at Rs 10.32 lakh, the Mahindra Thar OG brings with it visual upgrades and a handful of new features. More importantly, it sits on an all-new platform that improves the vehicle’s ride and handling experience. 

I spent a day behind the wheel of the new Thar OG in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Having driven all the older versions of the Thar, I was curious to see what was now in store. Over a test that spanned nearly 300km and a variety of terrains, including smooth highways, rough village roads and even sand dunes, I returned rather impressed. Here’s a full breakdown:

‘Theoretically, one could’ve easily taken 40-50 mm from the bonnet and made the cabin larger’ someone from Mahindra said. ‘But the Thar wouldn’t have looked like the Thar…’ he and I seemed to say together. That sums up how central looks are to the idea of the Thar. 

Naturally, in this ‘facelift’, Mahindra’s design team has chosen to not tinker too much. The dimensions and proportions remain the same, but there are different elements that add a dose of modernity to the Thar’s simple design (check it out here in detailed images).

Up front, the basics remain unchanged — circular headlamps, wide grille and an upright bumper. But it’s the detailing that makes the Thar OG different. The headlamps are now shared with the Thar Roxx, with C-shaped LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) and LED projector headlamps. They flank the wider 5-slat grille that has an interesting mesh pattern and a Thar badge too. 

Like before, the turn indicators are placed on the fender. Interestingly, now the fog lamps move up from the bumper. Like the XUV 7XO, the Thar OG gets two square fog lamps instead of the older circular units. The outer cubes serve as the fog lamps, whereas the inner ones function as the cornering lamps. Do note that the inner lamps work ONLY when the Thar is in motion (unlike the XUV’s that function when the car is stationary). 

From the side, keen readers will notice that the Thar OG has a balanced, squared-off stance now (check: old vs new Thar). The rear doesn’t look raised like in the older model. Otherwise, the iconic silhouette remains untouched. Updates here include ‘Thar OG’ badging on the front fender and a new set of 19-inch alloy wheels (one size up from the older version). The base-spec LXT variant features 16-inch steel wheels, whereas the mid-spec AXT version features 18-inch alloys. Mahindra could’ve used this update to give the Thar OG body coloured door handles and mirrors, but it seems to be a deliberate omission. 

Updates to the rear end include the new LED tail lamps with a C-shaped lighting pattern, a sharper, reprofiled bumper and ‘OG’ branding on the tailgate. Another minor design update is in the detailing of the fibre roof around the rear windscreen. It’s now similar to the Thar Roxx, making the rear look less slab-sided. 

Thar OG colours include eight shades: Artemis Silver, Jeans Blue, Tango Red, Stealth Black, Everest White, Deep Forest, Battleship Grey and Galaxy Grey. While the crowd favourites are black and red, I think the Thar looks fantastic in the off-beat Deep Forest and Jeans Blue colours. That said, Mahindra could’ve offered some matte shades in the lineup given it’s such a popular modification for the SUV.

Like before, you have to climb inside the Thar OG. Side steps have been provided, and there are grab handles on the A-pillar to help ingress/egress. You will require a certain amount of physical flexibility and strength to get in and out of the car comfortably, and is naturally not recommended for the elders in the family.  

As I made myself comfortable in the Thar OG, I liked that Mahindra hasn’t bothered making the Thar OG luxurious or tech-heavy. It has stayed true to its purpose of being a rugged, go-anywhere, utilitarian SUV. The design seems functional, and that’s no bad thing. A large central screen, circular AC vents and a ‘waterfall’ console is as ‘traditional’ as things get in this day and age. 

In the top-spec ZXT variant, the Thar OG features a truffle brown + black interior combo which looks more lively than the older, sporty all-black theme. Leatherette upholstery on the seats, steering wheel, and door armrests makes the cabin feel richer.

Front Seats

The front seats now feature a wider seat back, better cushioning and side bolstering. This ensures that support is better around the shoulders and sides for even XL-sized occupants. The driver’s seat can be adjusted for height, whereas the steering gets tilt adjustment only. You should have no trouble finding a comfortable driving position in the Thar OG. Even with the seat set to its lowest, you get a clean view of the edge of the bonnet. This, surprisingly, makes the Thar OG less intimidating to newer drivers. 

Another addition I’m happy about is that of the front armrest. The driver’s side of the armrest can be adjusted, making it convenient for taller drivers too. On that note, taller drivers will find the footwell(s) of the Thar OG cramped and the pedals closely spaced. It is slightly offset to the right to begin with, and if you wear size UK11 or above, your shoes are likely to foul with the lower half of the dashboard too. 

Rear Seats

While this isn’t supposed to be the Thar OG’s forte, it can be considered half decent. Getting in and out of the Thar’s rear seats remains an exercise, but it’s not all that bad once you’re seated. Like the front seats, the cushioning here is now improved and the armrests on the side make the experience a little more, let’s say, ‘less crude’. Like before, you will not be able to place your feet straight under the front seats, and will be forced to tilt them at an angle to be comfortable. 

That said, I was surprised that my 6ft tall, large frame was okay seated behind my own driving position; the adjustable recline made the experience a little more bearable. Note that the rear windows of the Thar OG continue to be fixed/unopenable. I’d recommend investing in sunflim to ensure the heat stays out over longer journeys. 

Storage Options

Both front doors get slim pockets that can hold small bottles and small items like a washcloth or a wallet/phone. The centre stack has minimal storage with a phone tray and a couple of (small) cup holders. There’s a minor cubby hole under the front armrest that you can use to store your wallet out of view. The glovebox is tiny as ever, barely fitting in the vehicle’s documentation. 

Rear occupants get to use seatback pockets, individual cupholders on the armrests and a small tray under the rear AC vents. 

The Thar OG, expectedly, doesn’t score particularly high on in-cabin practicality. 

Charging Options

Front occupants get a type-A and 15W type-C port, along with a wireless charger. Rear occupants get a single 15W Type-C port. A 12V socket is provided on the rear quarter trim. 

The Thar OG should’ve been equipped with two Type-C ports, both front and rear, one for each occupant. It also doesn’t help that wired CarPlay can only run via the Type-A data port. Finally, it could’ve done without the wireless charger that heats up the phone more than it charges it. 

Boot Space

There’s no official boot space claim by Mahindra. However, the space behind the rear seats is virtually non-existent. You can fit in 3-4 backpacks at best.

If you plan on carrying more luggage, it’s best to use the 50:50 fold on the rear seats and open up space.

The feature list on the Thar OG is basic, but covers everyday essentials. These include: 

While the feature list is acceptable, at its price point it should have packed in more. Passive keyless entry, a larger auto-dimming IRVM and automatic climate control would’ve been good to have for the price. Front seat ventilation and a single-pane sunroof would’ve made the Thar practically irresistible. 

Infotainment duties are handled by a 10.25-inch touchscreen, just like the Thar Roxx. It features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but only Android Auto is wireless. The UI looks clean, but it can feel a little slow to operate. It’s paired with a rather basic 6-speaker audio system that sounds tinny and hollow. Consider upgrading the speakers for a better audio experience. 

The screen also doubles up as a display for the reverse camera. The feed is acceptably clear, although the guidelines have a minor lag. Again, a 360° camera should have been provided given the Thar’s size.

The Thar OG is offered with six airbags, but it isn’t standard and is limited to only the top-spec ZXT variant. Dual airbags for the entry and mid variants seem simply unacceptable for the price. 

Other safety features include electronic stability program (ESP), hill hold, hill descent control, ISOFIX child seat mounts and a roll cage. 

Mahindra claims to have engineered the Thar OG for a strong rating at BNCAP. Currently, there’s no crash test safety rating for the updated Thar OG.

The Mahindra Thar OG is available with the same engine options as before: a 1.5-litre diesel, a 2.2-litre and a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol. Not all variants get all engine/gearbox options, however. Here’s a quick look at the specifications: 

The 2.2-litre diesel and the 2.0-litre petrol engine both get a new tune, making more power and torque than before. In both cases, you could say that the difference isn’t night and day, but noticeable for sure. 

1.5-litre Diesel

This engine is the one to pick for those who want the Thar for its looks more than its capabilities. It is offered only with a manual transmission and with rear-wheel drive only. An automatic option with this engine would have been nice to have. 

City Performance

The engine has acceptable refinement levels. Given its city focus, I like that the clutch feels light and predictable. There’s ample power for quick city overtakes, and the gearbox doesn’t mind being in second or third gear at lower speeds. This ensures you can cruise around the city in relative ease. It’s reasonably fuel efficient too. You can expect around 10-12kmpl in city traffic. 

Highway Performance

For highway drives, the Thar OG 1.5 will be adequate, but never extraordinary. If you want your SUV to cruise in a relaxed manner at 80-90 kmph, it does that just fine. However, it struggles a bit to accelerate beyond that. While the engine doesn’t feel stressed, high-speed overtakes will require planning as will getting to triple digit speeds. I’d recommend you take it easy with this engine, drive in a chill manner, and extract upwards of 15kmpl from it in the process.

2.2-litre Diesel

This engine is the all rounder in the Thar lineup, and a personal favourite. It gives you the best of both worlds – performance and fuel efficiency. Start the engine and it comes to life with a shake and stir. For a diesel, the engine feels reasonably smooth, with slight vibrations being felt on the floorboard and steering wheel. 

City Performance

For the city, there’s more than ample performance. You can cruise around the city in second gear all day long, and simply press the accelerator pedal down for any overtakes you might need to do. From experience, I can say that the Thar diesel manual has quite a light clutch and a smooth gearbox, but it’s the automatic I usually recommend. It adds convenience to the drive with its smooth and timely shifts. Yes, it might feel slow to make the shift itself, but it’s a small trade-off for the convenience. Depending on traffic and the transmission, you can expect anywhere between 7-11kmpl for your city drives. 

Highway Performance

The Thar OG diesel is built for the highways. Earlier, the engine felt at home up to 100 kmph, now it feels relaxed even beyond that. Overtaking is quick and effortless too. With the updated tune, the Thar feels more at ease out on the highways, something you’d appreciate on your long road trips. 

As far as fuel efficiency goes, you could expect between 11-14kmpl for extended highway usage. 

2-litre Turbo-petrol

The most powerful engine offered with the Thar is smooth, silent and quite fun. Consider this engine if you’re unsure about the future of diesel, or just prefer petrol cars in general. It offers an experience that’s on par with the diesel version.

City Performance

In the city, the behaviour of the engine is very diesel-like. That’s to say there’s some lag under 2000rpm and it delivers power in a clean surge post. If you pick the manual, know that you’ll have to be in the right gear to extract the most out of this engine. Again, why I tilt in favour of the automatic here too. It simply feels more suited to the Thar’s relaxed character. 

That said, the petrol Thar isn’t particularly great on fuel efficiency. You can expect between 6-8kmpl for city drives, and it can get possibly less in heavy traffic. 

Highway Performance

Highway drives are quite enjoyable with this engine. Here too, it feels as relaxed and easy-going as the diesel — making light work of maintaining triple digit speeds and overtaking. Fuel efficiency will be marginally better here, around 10kmpl. 

Off-road Performance

The Thar’s natural home is the great outdoors. Take it off-road and that is where the Thar shines. It claims to take you to places where maps won’t, and I’m quite sure of its ability to deliver. Having gone off-roading extensively multiple times in the previous iteration of the Thar, I can vouch for its off-road prowess over mud, rocks, sand, snow — come what may. 

The Thar OG gets an upgraded ESP system that unlocks Terrain Modes. You can select between Normal, Mud, Snow and Sand mode. Each mode has its own pedal response, gear-shift, traction control and steering calibration. On this particular drive, I got to use the Sand mode in the dunes of Rajasthan. The difference in throttle response was instantly noticeable, which made climbing up a steep sandy ramp practically cakewalk. 

Ride And Handling

The Thar struggled in this department a fair bit. It would toss occupants around and bounce over small surface imperfections too. With the Thar OG, Mahindra has reworked the suspension entirely, providing a double independent wishbone setup up front and a pentalink setup at the rear. What’s more, Mahindra has added the ‘Davinci’ dampers from the XUV 7XO which seemed like a cheat code to good ride quality. Has it worked? 

For the most part, yes. There’s a noticeable reduction in the vertical and side-to-side movement occupants will face in the Thar OG. The cabin remains a lot more composed over small bumps and potholes. The suspension setup continues to remain on the firmer side, but there’s better bump absorption that makes the journey comfortable. 

High speed stability has also seen an improvement, both at the front and rear. Vertical movement remains controlled, which might tempt you to push the Thar OG harder over open roads. 

In terms of handling, the new electric power steering system makes life much easier behind the wheel. It’s still not super light as an everyday compact SUV, but light enough to make parking and u-turns take next to no effort. As is the case with all other Mahindra steering setups, there’s not much feel or feedback to be had here. Even while offroading, you will appreciate the quicker steering response and that the kickback from the steering isn’t as hard as the older hydraulic unit. 

Braking performance is now bolstered by the addition of rear disc brakes. The nose tends to dive a fair bit under heavy braking, and it’s best to brake progressively with the Thar OG wherever possible.

The Mahindra Thar OG is offered in three variants: AXT, LXT, and ZXT.

Mahindra Thar OG AXT

• Base variant is only available with the smaller diesel 4x2 powertrain.

• Basic design with halogen headlights, LED tail lights and 16-inch steel wheels. 

• Cabin gets vinyl seats, tilt adjustable steering, height adjustable driver seat, 50:50 split in the rear seats and a reclining mechanism.

• Daily use features include physical AC controls with rear AC vents, central locking, remote keyless entry, push button start/stop and power windows.

• No touch screen, infotainment system or speakers. Driver gets a basic black and white MID display.

• Safety features include six airbags, rear parking sensors, electronic stability program, hill-hold control and ISOFIX mounts.

• Off-road kit gets brake locking differential and welded tow hooks front and rear.

Mahindra Thar OG LXT

• Get all the powertrain and drivetrain options. 

• Better exterior styling with a hard top, dual tone bumpers, 18-inch alloy wheels and moulded side footstep.

• Gets embossed fabric seats and a dead pedal (AT only)

• Top feature editions include cruise control, electrically adjustable ORVMs, steering mounted buttons, 12V socket, and USB Type-C and Type-A ports.

• Packs are 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and wired Apple CarPlay, 6 speakers and a coloured MID display.

• Safety package adds a tyre direction monitoring system and speed sensing door locks. 

• 4WD versions get terrain modes, terrain assist, electronic locking differential and washable floor with drain plugs. 

Mahindra Thar OG ZXT

• Modern exterior styling with LED headlamps, LED DRLs, LED front fog lights with cornering function and 19-inch alloy wheels. 

• Premium interior with a dual tone upholstery with leatherette seats and leatherette wrapped steering wheel.

• Add features like wireless phone charger and a rear-view camera. 

• Stronger safety package with tyre pressure monitoring system, front parking sensors, and seat belt reminders.

CarDekho Recommends

• Only go for the base variant if you just want a butch and tall SUV with a strong road  presence that you plan on modifying as there are misses beyond its looks. There’s also no 4x4, and while it’ll still be super capable, it isn't really the accurate representation of what the Thar can do. 

• Our recommended variant would be the mid-spec LXT variant as it gets all the powertrain and drivetrain options along with all the must have features that you would expect in a modern day car.

• Go for the top spec variant if you want your off-roader to feel a little premium with LED elements and leatherette inside. It is an entirely discretionary purchase.

The Thar OG might appeal to you for one of two reasons. First, you like the way it looks and the aura it has. You don’t particularly care much for the off-road ability, and just want an SUV that looks cool and has presence. In that case, the updated design, and interior, lighter electric power steering and better ride quality will make the temptation stronger for you. For the price, there are a few feature misses, but not much that can make you strike it off the consideration list.

Second, you want the Thar OG for what it can do, especially off-road. There too, the upgraded platform, new suspension hardware, terrain modes and upgraded braking make it more capable than it was before. 

The Thar OG continues to be something you buy with your heart, not your head. Now, your head just has more reasons to agree.

Other options to consider 

Maruti Jimny

Reasons to consider 

• A smaller footprint helps tackle narrow trails better
• Dedicated rear doors provide better access for 2nd row passengers

Reasons to ignore

• No diesel engine option
• Doesn't have that butch road presence
• No rear-wheel drive option, 4x4 only 
• Performance isn't nearly as punchy

Would you have a large 3-door Thar or a small but practical 5-door Jimny? Check this comparison before you make a decision.

Force Gurkha

Reasons to consider

• Feels more old school and purpose-built
• 2nd row captain seats are pretty comfortable

Reasons to ignore

• Cabin feels too rudimentary for the price
• Has fewer features and barely any tech
• No petrol engine option

Here’s a detailed comparison between the two homegrown off-roaders.