Thar 2015-2019 CRDe Review
Mahindra Thar CRDe is the top end trim in its lineup. Now, it is available with updated exteriors as well as interiors. The list of updated features include plastic cladding over the wheel arches, metal based front bumper, bigger foot rest, new headlamps, a new dual-tone color scheme for cabin, brand new dashboard with a slot for 2 DIN audio system, silver finished AC vents on center console, an astute looking instrument panel, redesigned steering wheel, lockable glove box, windshield demister, larger seats, a 12V power socket and a newly designed center console with hand brake, gear shift lever and transfer case. It is fitted with a 2.5-litre CRDe engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 2498cc. It is mated with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which enables the engine to deliver a maximum power and torque output of 105bhp and 247Nm respectively. Its braking and suspension mechanism are quite proficient, which keeps it well balanced at all times. This vehicle has a decent wheelbase along with ground clearance, which makes it capable for driving on terrains. Its handling is made easier with the help of a responsive power assisted steering system that is tilt adjustable as well. The interior section is quite spacious and airy with good seating arrangement. It offers ample of leg space along with shoulder room for all occupants. The seats are wide and well cushioned and are integrated with head restraints. This vehicle is going to give a tough competition to the likes of Maruti Gypsy, Force Gurkha, Premier Rio, Tata Sumo and others in its segments.
Exteriors:
To begin with the frontage, it has a bold radiator grille with black colored horizontal slats. It is further surrounded by a headlight cluster incorporated with clear lens headlamps and side turn indicator. The black colored bumper looks quite aggressive and is accompanied by a protective cladding as well. The windscreen is made up of laminated toughened glass and equipped with a pair of intermittent wipers. Its side profile is quite smooth with door handles and external wing mirrors that are finished in black color. The wheel arches are fitted with a set of 16-inch wheels covered with tubeless radials of size P 235/70 R16. Its rear end gets a large tail gate and is also fitted with a spare wheel. The tail lamp cluster is quite clear and radiant, while the bumper is accompanied by a skid plate that helps in preventing it from damages. It is equipped with a couple of bright reflectors along with a courtesy lamp as well. The length, width and total height is 3920mm x 1726mm x 1930mm respectively. Its roomy wheelbase measures about 2430mm and it has an impressive ground clearance of 200mm, which makes it capable for off-roading.
Interiors:
There are quite a few features like plush seats covered with premium upholstery, its dashboard is dark in color and equipped with quite a few features like silver finished AC vents, a four spoke steering wheel, an instrument cluster and large glove box for storing a few things at hand. The driver seat can be adjusted in accordance to the requirement, which adds to the comfort level. The driver and co-passenger get sun visors and there is also an internal rear view mirror as well. The instrument cluster of this variant is bright and fitted with round dials and provides all the vital information to the driver, which will in turn make the drive comfortable and hassle free. It is equipped with speedometer, tripmeter, a tachometer and several other notification and warning lamps. The tilt adjustable steering wheel is quite responsive and makes it easy to handle even in peak traffic conditions.
Engine and Performance:
As said above, this variant is equipped with a 2.5-litre, NFT, TCI-CRDe engine, which comes with a displacement capacity of 2498cc. It is integrated with four cylinders and sixteen valves using a double overhead camshaft based valve configuration. It has capacity of churning out a maximum power of 105bhp at 3800rpm in combination with a peak torque output of 247Nm between 1800 to 2000rpm. This diesel mill is cleverly mated with a five speed manual transmission gear box, which distributes the engine power to its all wheels. It allows the vehicle to cross the speed barrier of 100 Kmph in close to 17 seconds from a standstill and attain a top speed between 130-140 Kmph approximately.
Braking and Handling:
Its front axle is assembled with a torsion bar, while rear one is fitted with semi elliptical leaf spring type of system. These axles are further assisted by hydraulic telescopic shock absorbers and anti roll bar. It has a rack and pinion based power assisted steering system, which is quite responsive and reduces the efforts of driver even during heavy traffic conditions. This tilt adjustable steering wheel supports a minimum turning radius of 5.25 meters, which is rather good for this class. On the other hand, its hydraulic service brakes with tandem master cylinder are quite reliable. The drive by wire technology aids in quicker and controlled throttle response. The front wheels are fitted with a robust set of disc brakes with twin pot caliper and rear wheels get a conventional set of drum brakes. It is equipped with LSPV (load sensing proportioning valve) brakes aid, which prevents wheel lock up and loss of control.
Comfort Features:
For giving a pleasurable driving experience, the company has given this top end variant almost all necessary and utility based features. The list includes cup and bottle holders, power steering with tilt adjustable function, rear foot steps and a few other aspects. The advanced instrument panel is equipped with a number of useful information like inside and outside temperature, instant mileage, date, time and so on for keeping the driver updated. It is equipped with a proficient HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioner) unit, which has the ability to cool the entire in cabin space within a short span of time. Not only this, the company has also given this updated version a provision to incorporate a 2-DIN music system.
Safety Features:
This variant comes with a safe cage body structure, which ensures maximum safety to the occupants sitting inside in case of collision. Its front fog lamps enable the driver to get a better view of the road in bad weather conditions as well. It also has an advanced engine immobilizer with alarm system that prevents it from theft and unauthorized entry. Apart from these, it is also equipped with seat belts, a day and night internal rear view mirror, a centrally located fuel tank, a high mounted stop lamp, a set of wipers in front windscreen and several other aspects, which gives the occupants a stress free driving experience. It also has a full size spare wheel with all other required tools for changing a flat tyre.
Pros:
1. Four wheel drive option enhances its ability to deal with any road conditions.
2. Rigid body structure is a big plus point.
Cons:
1. Can be upgraded to BSIV emission norms.
2. Engine noise, vibration and harshness can be reduced.
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