Mahindra Thar: Taming the Tarmac vs Conquering the Wild

The Mahindra Thar has evolved from a barebones off-roader to a lifestyle SUV that appeals to a wider audience. With its recent generation, it promises not just legendary off-road prowess but also improved on-road manners. But how well does it balance these two distinct personalities? We put the Thar through its paces on both the smooth tarmac of Bengaluru’s roads and the rugged trails beyond to bring you a comprehensive on-road vs off-road review.

The Icon, Reimagined:

The latest generation Thar retains its iconic silhouette, a nod to its Willys Jeep heritage. Its boxy design, bold wheel arches, and imposing stance give it undeniable road presence. However, it now boasts a more refined finish and modern touches, making it look less utilitarian and more appealing for everyday use.

On-Road Review: Surprising Refinement?

Gone are the days of a bouncy and uncomfortable ride being the norm for the Thar. Mahindra has made significant strides in improving its on-road behavior:

Ride Comfort: The independent front suspension has made a world of difference. While it’s still not as plush as a monocoque SUV, the ride is considerably more comfortable than its predecessor, absorbing most city bumps and undulations reasonably well. Long highway drives are now less taxing.
Handling: The Thar feels more planted on the road. The steering, while still not the most communicative, is lighter and more responsive, making maneuvering in city traffic easier. Body roll is controlled better than before, inspiring more confidence while cornering, though it’s still evident due to its high center of gravity.
Engine Performance: The petrol and diesel engine options offer ample power for both city commutes and highway cruising. The engines feel refined, and NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels are much improved compared to the older Thar, making for a more pleasant cabin experience.
Practicality: Features like air conditioning, power windows, and a decent infotainment system make daily usability much better. However, getting into the rear seats (especially in the 3-door variant) can still be a bit of a climb, and boot space remains limited.

Off-Road Review: Where it Truly Shines

This is the Thar’s natural habitat, and it continues to be a formidable off-roader:

4×4 Capability: The robust 4×4 system with a proper low-range gearbox is the Thar’s biggest strength. It can tackle challenging terrains, steep inclines, and slippery surfaces with remarkable ease.
Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles: With its high ground clearance and impressive approach, departure, and ramp-over angles, the Thar can confidently navigate obstacles that would leave most other vehicles stranded.
Suspension Articulation: The suspension offers good articulation, allowing the wheels to maintain contact with the ground even on uneven terrain, providing excellent traction.
Off-Road Features: Features like hill-hold assist and hill-descent control further enhance its off-road prowess, making challenging situations more manageable. The mechanically locking differentials in some variants provide even greater grip in extreme conditions.
Driving Experience: There’s a unique sense of capability and adventure when driving the Thar off-road. It feels robust and built for the wild, instilling confidence in the driver to tackle challenging trails.

The Balancing Act: Strengths and Weaknesses

On-Road Strengths: Improved ride comfort, better handling, refined engines, and enhanced everyday usability.
On-Road Weaknesses: Still not as comfortable or spacious as conventional SUVs, limited boot space, and some body roll.
Off-Road Strengths: Exceptional 4×4 capability, high ground clearance, excellent approach/departure angles, and robust build quality.
Off-Road Weaknesses: Can feel less refined compared to purpose-built off-roaders with more sophisticated suspension setups.

Who is the Mahindra Thar For?

The current generation Mahindra Thar strikes a better balance between on-road usability and off-road capability. It appeals to:

Off-Road Enthusiasts: Those who regularly venture off the beaten path and need a vehicle that can handle challenging terrain.
Lifestyle Buyers: Individuals looking for a vehicle with a unique and rugged character that makes a statement on the road.
Weekend Adventurers: People who want a vehicle that is comfortable enough for daily commutes but can also take them on adventurous weekend getaways.

Conclusion: A More Versatile Beast

The Mahindra Thar has successfully shed some of its hardcore off-roader image while retaining its legendary capabilities. It’s now a more versatile SUV that can handle daily driving duties with greater comfort and refinement. While it still has some inherent compromises compared to traditional SUVs, its improved on-road manners combined with its unmatched off-road prowess make it a unique and compelling choice for those who crave adventure and a distinctive driving experience. Whether you’re navigating Bengaluru’s urban jungle or tackling the trails in the Western Ghats, the Thar is ready for the challenge.