If you’re eyeing the Thar OG, the recent overhaul is all about under‑the‑hood changes that translate to a smoother drive and more punch.
The switch to Mahindra’s M_GLYDE 4G architecture gives the chassis a sturdier feel, while the new Watt’s‑Link rear suspension tames the rear axle’s side sway—a welcome tweak for the low‑centre‑of‑gravity off‑road adventures the Thar loves.
Steering used to be hydraulic, so you remember the rumble and the effort when nudging a 2‑tonne SUV in a tight spot. Now it’s electric, the rack sits closer to the wheel centre and you get a lighter, more linear feel—parking becomes less of a chore and city manoeuvres feel less like a guessing game.
Power has been dialed up too. The 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol now spits out 162 hp and 330 Nm, while the 2.2‑litre diesel offers 152 hp for a bit more torque. The 1.5‑litre diesel still sits at 118 hp, but its 300 Nm keeps it useful for the more rugged variants. Both the petrol and larger diesel come with six‑speed manual or automatic options, and you can still choose between RWD and 4WD depending on the trim.
Safety gets a full lift: six airbags, four‑wheel disc brakes, ESP with rollover mitigation, traction and hill‑hold controls are now standard across all variants. Higher trims add front parking sensors and a few convenience extras, but the base gets the essentials covered.
Speaking of trims, the AXT, LXT and ZXT lineup still offers differentiation—boot space remains modest given the three‑door layout, but the interior got a touch of class with leatherette upholstery and a second‑row armrest that doubles as a cupholder. The exterior gets a sharper grille, LED DRLs and cornering foglamps, and the top‑end version rides on 19‑inch alloy wheels.
Price stays at ₹10.32 lakh ex‑showroom for the entry‑level and climbs modestly for the higher trims. The Thar OG will roll out across major cities from March, with the first deliveries expected in Delhi and Mumbai. For buyers who want a rugged, off‑road capable SUV that still feels competent on the tarmac, the Thar’s new platform, power boost and safety kit make it a compelling option against the likes of the Jeep Compass and Toyota Fortuner.