Mahindra Thar : has long been a symbol of rugged adventure and off-road prowess in India, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts with its iconic design and go-anywhere capability. The introduction of the Mahindra Thar Roxx, the much-anticipated 5-door version, has taken this legacy to new heights, blending bold aesthetics, advanced technology, and enhanced practicality.
Launched on August 15, 2024, the Thar Roxx has redefined the lifestyle SUV segment, offering a premium experience while staying true to its off-road roots. With its commanding road presence, feature-rich cabin, and versatile engine options, it appeals to both urban adventurers and off-road purists.
The Thar Roxx has garnered massive attention, with over 1.76 lakh bookings in just one hour, signaling its immense popularity. This article dives deep into every facet of the Thar Roxx, from its storied heritage to its cutting-edge features, exploring why it’s a game-changer in the Indian automotive market.
Whether you’re drawn to its muscular design, tech-loaded interiors, or unbeatable off-road credentials, the Thar Roxx promises an experience that’s wilder than you ever imagined.
Legacy of the Mahindra Thar
The Mahindra Thar traces its roots to the iconic Willys Jeep, a vehicle that became synonymous with rugged utility during World War II. Mahindra, with its long-standing expertise in SUVs, introduced the Thar in 2010 as a modern homage to this classic, blending retro charm with contemporary functionality.
The second-generation Thar, launched in 2020, elevated its status with improved design, safety, and performance, earning a 4-star Global NCAP rating. The Thar Roxx builds on this legacy, transforming the 3-door off-roader into a more practical 5-door family-friendly SUV.
Its launch marks a significant milestone, reinforcing Mahindra’s dominance in the body-on-frame SUV segment while appealing to a broader audience seeking style and substance.
- Evolution from Jeep Roots: The Thar’s design draws inspiration from the Willys Jeep, with its boxy silhouette and rugged stance. Mahindra adapted this classic for Indian roads, ensuring durability and off-road capability while adding modern touches like LED lighting and advanced infotainment in the Roxx.
- Cultural Impact in India: The Thar has become a cultural icon, symbolizing adventure and freedom. Its popularity among celebrities and off-road enthusiasts has cemented its status, with the Roxx amplifying this appeal through enhanced practicality and premium features.
- Mahindra’s SUV Dominance: Mahindra’s expertise in SUVs like the Scorpio and XUV700 shines through in the Thar Roxx. The brand’s focus on robust engineering and customer feedback has shaped the Roxx into a versatile vehicle that balances lifestyle and utility.
Design and Aesthetics
The Mahindra Thar Roxx commands attention with its muscular and bold design, staying true to the Thar’s iconic silhouette while introducing modern refinements.
Measuring 4,428 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,923 mm in height, with a 2,850 mm wheelbase, it offers a larger footprint than its 3-door sibling.
The Roxx features a double-stacked six-slot grille, C-shaped LED daytime running lights, and 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, enhancing its road presence. The addition of rear doors with handles on the C-pillar adds practicality without compromising its rugged charm.
A panoramic sunroof and updated LED taillights further elevate its premium appeal, making it a standout in the SUV segment.
- Iconic Boxy Silhouette: The Thar Roxx retains the Thar’s signature boxy shape, with flared wheel arches and a high ground clearance, ensuring it looks tough and capable. The design balances retro aesthetics with modern flair, appealing to both purists and new buyers.
- Premium Exterior Elements: Features like the chrome-finished grille, LED projector headlamps, and dual-tone ORVMs add sophistication. The tailgate-mounted spare wheel and silver-accented rear bumper maintain the Thar’s adventurous spirit while enhancing its premium quotient.
- Practical Additions: The extra doors make the Roxx more family-friendly, offering easier access to the rear seats. The metal roof, available with a panoramic or single-pane sunroof, adds versatility and style, catering to diverse buyer preferences.
Exterior Design Highlights
The exterior of the Thar Roxx is a perfect blend of ruggedness and refinement. The front fascia features a bold grille with vertical slats, paired with sleek LED DRLs and fog lights.
The side profile is accentuated by robust wheel arches and a radio antenna, while the rear showcases updated C-shaped LED taillights and a muscular bumper. These elements ensure the Roxx stands out in urban settings and off-road trails alike.
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Color Options
The Thar Roxx offers a vibrant palette to suit varied tastes, enhancing its appeal across demographics.
Mahindra has introduced a range of bold and subtle shades, ensuring the SUV caters to both adventure enthusiasts and urban buyers. Each color is carefully chosen to complement the Roxx’s rugged yet premium design, making it a head-turner on any terrain.
- Vivid and Bold Choices: Colors like Turbo Sienna and Burnt Sienna add a rugged, earthy vibe, perfect for off-road adventures. These shades highlight the Roxx’s tough persona and blend seamlessly with natural landscapes.
- Urban Sophistication: Shades like Stealth Black and Nebula Blue offer a sleek, modern look, appealing to city dwellers who want a stylish yet capable SUV. These colors enhance the Roxx’s premium appeal in urban settings.
- Classic and Timeless: Evergreen options like Pearl White and Red Rage provide a timeless aesthetic, ensuring the Roxx remains a versatile choice for buyers seeking a balance of tradition and modernity.
Engine Specifications and Performance
The Thar Roxx is powered by two robust engine options: a 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel. The petrol delivers 174 bhp and 380 Nm of torque, while the diesel produces 172 bhp and 370 Nm.
Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations.
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The Roxx M Glide platform enhances suspension, braking, and ride quality, ensuring a smooth experience on and off the road.
- Turbo-Petrol Powerhouse: The 2.0-litre mStallion engine offers spirited performance, with 174 bhp and 380 Nm of torque. Its refined tuning ensures quick acceleration and responsiveness, making it ideal for highway cruising and urban driving.
- Diesel Reliability: The 2.2-litre mHawk diesel provides 172 bhp and 370 Nm, delivering excellent low-end torque for off-road challenges. Its fuel efficiency and durability make it a favorite for long-distance adventurers.
- Transmission Versatility: The 6-speed manual offers precise control for enthusiasts, while the 6-speed automatic ensures effortless driving in traffic. The availability of RWD and 4WD caters to diverse driving needs.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Thar Roxx excels in off-road conditions, thanks to its high ground clearance, robust ladder-frame chassis, and advanced 4WD system.
Features like a water wading capacity of 650 mm and excellent approach and departure angles make it a formidable off-roader, capable of tackling mud, sand, and rocky terrains with ease.
Mileage and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for SUV buyers, and the Thar Roxx delivers respectable figures for its class.
The diesel variants offer better mileage compared to the petrol, making them ideal for long journeys. Mahindra’s focus on optimizing engine performance ensures the Roxx balances power and economy effectively.
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- Diesel Efficiency: The 2.2-litre diesel engine achieves around 13-15 kmpl, depending on driving conditions. Its common-rail technology enhances fuel economy, making it suitable for extended off-road trips and daily commutes.
- Petrol Performance: The 2.0-litre petrol engine delivers approximately 10-12 kmpl, offering a fair trade-off for its spirited performance. Urban drivers will appreciate its responsiveness, though highway trips may require more frequent refueling.
- Eco-Friendly Tuning: Mahindra has tuned both engines to meet stringent emission norms, ensuring the Roxx is environmentally responsible without compromising on power or capability.
Price and Variants
The Thar Roxx is competitively priced, starting at Rs 12.99 lakh for the petrol MX1 variant and Rs 13.99 lakh for the diesel MX1 (ex-showroom). Top-end variants like the AX7L and AX5L are priced at Rs 18.99 lakh, offering premium features. The pricing strategy makes the Roxx accessible to a wide range of buyers, from budget-conscious adventurers to those seeking luxury.
- Entry-Level Affordability: The MX1 variant, starting at Rs 12.99 lakh, offers essential features like LED headlights and a touchscreen, making it a value-for-money choice for first-time SUV buyers.
- Mid-Range Value: Variants like MX5 and AX3L, priced at Rs 16.99 lakh, include advanced features like a panoramic sunroof and ADAS, catering to buyers seeking a balance of cost and premium amenities.
- Top-End Luxury: The AX7L variant, at Rs 18.99 lakh, boasts ventilated seats, a Harman Kardon audio system, and Level 2 ADAS, positioning the Roxx as a premium lifestyle SUV.
Competitors in the Market
The Thar Roxx faces stiff competition from ladder-frame SUVs like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha 5-door, as well as urban SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Its unique blend of off-road capability, premium features, and competitive pricing sets it apart in a crowded segment.
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny: Priced between Rs 12.74 lakh and Rs 14.79 lakh, the Jimny offers a 1.5-litre petrol engine with 103 bhp. While it’s a capable off-roader, it lacks the Roxx’s advanced features like ADAS and panoramic sunroof, limiting its premium appeal.
- Force Gurkha 5-Door: The Gurkha, priced at Rs 18 lakh, is a hardcore off-roader with a 2.5-litre diesel engine producing 138 bhp. Its rugged build is impressive, but the Roxx outshines it with superior tech and comfort features.
- Hyundai Creta: The Creta, a monocoque SUV, dominates the urban segment with prices starting at Rs 11 lakh. While it offers a refined ride, it can’t match the Roxx’s off-road prowess or distinctive design.
Comfort and Interior Features
The Thar Roxx’s interior is a leap forward, offering a premium and spacious cabin. With a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a fully digital driver’s display, and ventilated front seats, it blends luxury with practicality. The use of darker interiors in higher variants addresses customer feedback, ensuring durability and style.
- Spacious Cabin: The extended wheelbase provides ample legroom and headspace, making the Roxx ideal for families. The rear seats offer improved access, enhancing comfort for long journeys.
- Premium Materials: Soft-touch materials, leatherette upholstery, and chrome accents elevate the interior’s appeal. The cabin’s robust build ensures it can withstand rough usage while maintaining a premium feel.
- Climate Control: Dual-zone AC and ventilated seats keep occupants comfortable in varying conditions, a segment-first feature that sets the Roxx apart from competitors.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Roxx’s 10.25-inch touchscreen supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless connectivity. A 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system enhance the driving experience, making every journey enjoyable.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority for the Thar Roxx, with Mahindra incorporating advanced features to ensure occupant protection. The SUV is expected to improve on the 3-door Thar’s 4-star Global NCAP rating, thanks to its reinforced M Glide platform and comprehensive safety suite.
- Level 2 ADAS: The Roxx features adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and auto emergency braking, making it one of the safest off-roaders in its class. These features enhance driver confidence on highways and in traffic.
- Six Airbags Standard: Unlike the 3-door Thar’s dual airbags, the Roxx offers six airbags across all variants, aligning with India’s upcoming safety norms and ensuring all-around protection.
- Robust Build: The ladder-frame chassis and rear disc brakes provide superior stability and stopping power, critical for both off-road adventures and urban driving.
Upcoming Models and Variants
Mahindra is exploring new horizons with the Thar Roxx, including the Thar.e, an electric concept showcased in 2023.
Expected to launch by 2026, the Thar.e will feature a five-door design on the INGLO electric platform, combining ruggedness with zero-emission performance. Additionally, Mahindra may introduce new trims or special editions of the Roxx to maintain its market dominance.
- Thar.e Electric Future: The Thar.e promises adventure-ready electric performance, with sustainable materials and interchangeable design elements. Its 2026 launch will cater to eco-conscious off-roaders seeking the Thar’s iconic style.
- Potential New Trims: Mahindra may introduce limited-edition variants or 4WD petrol options, expanding the Roxx’s appeal. These additions could include unique colors or off-road accessories for enthusiasts.
- Global Expansion: Mahindra plans to take the Thar Roxx to international markets, leveraging its premium features and rugged appeal to compete with global off-roaders like the Suzuki Jimny.
Key Factors for Buying the Thar Roxx
The Thar Roxx stands out as a compelling choice due to its unique blend of style, performance, and practicality.
Its versatility makes it suitable for urban commutes, weekend getaways, and hardcore off-road adventures, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
- Unmatched Road Presence: The Roxx’s bold design and larger dimensions ensure it turns heads wherever it goes. Its muscular stance and premium features make it a status symbol for buyers seeking individuality.
- Off-Road Prowess: With a robust 4WD system, high ground clearance, and durable chassis, the Roxx is built to conquer challenging terrains, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
- Value for Money: Starting at Rs 12.99 lakh, the Roxx offers a rich feature set, including ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, and premium interiors, making it a cost-effective alternative to competitors.
Latest Features and Innovations
The Thar Roxx introduces segment-first features that elevate its appeal. From advanced safety tech to premium comfort amenities, Mahindra has ensured the Roxx sets new benchmarks in the lifestyle SUV segment.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Available in top variants, the panoramic sunroof enhances the cabin’s airy feel, offering a premium experience for occupants during scenic drives.
- Ventilated Seats: A first in its segment, ventilated front seats provide comfort in hot climates, making the Roxx a practical choice for India’s diverse weather conditions.
- Harman Kardon Audio: The premium audio system delivers immersive sound quality, transforming the cabin into a concert hall for music lovers on the go.
Technology Integration
The Roxx’s tech suite includes a 360-degree camera, wireless charging, and a fully digital instrument cluster, ensuring drivers stay connected and informed. These features make the Roxx a modern, future-ready SUV.
Brand Strength and Market Impact
Mahindra reputation as India’s leading SUV manufacturer adds significant value to the Thar Roxx. The brand focus on rugged engineering, customer-centric innovation, and competitive pricing has made the Roxx a market leader, with a waiting period stretching to 2026 due to overwhelming demand.
- Mahindra’s SUV Legacy: With a portfolio including the Scorpio, XUV700, and Bolero, Mahindra’s expertise in SUVs ensures the Roxx delivers on durability, performance, and style, reinforcing the brand’s dominance.
- Customer-Centric Approach: Mahindra’s quick response to feedback, such as offering darker interiors, showcases its commitment to buyer satisfaction, enhancing the Roxx’s appeal.
- Massive Booking Numbers: The 1.76 lakh bookings in one hour highlight the Thar Roxx’s popularity, positioning it as a cultural and commercial success in India’s automotive landscape.
Launch Date and Market Reception
Launched on August 15, 2024, the Thar Roxx coincided with India’s Independence Day, adding patriotic fervor to its debut.
The SUV’s unveiling was a highly anticipated event, with test drives starting on September 14 and bookings opening on October 3. Its massive booking numbers and extended waiting periods of up to 18 months reflect its phenomenal market reception.
- Strategic Launch Timing: The Independence Day launch leveraged national pride, aligning the Roxx with themes of freedom and adventure, resonating deeply with Indian buyers.
- Overwhelming Demand: The rapid booking surge underscores the Roxx’s appeal, with popular variants like AX7L facing wait times of 1.5 to 2 years, indicating strong consumer trust.
- Media and Consumer Buzz: Positive reviews from automotive experts and enthusiastic social media chatter have amplified the Roxx’s hype, cementing its status as a must-have SUV.
Price Variation Across Variants
The Thar Roxx’s pricing caters to diverse budgets, with entry-level variants offering affordability and top-end trims delivering luxury.
The RWD variants are priced competitively, while 4WD options, exclusive to diesel, command a premium. Prices for 4WD variants are yet to be fully disclosed, adding anticipation for off-road enthusiasts.
- Budget-Friendly Base Models: The MX1 petrol at Rs 12.99 lakh and diesel at Rs 13.99 lakh provide essential features, making the Roxx accessible to first-time SUV buyers.
- Mid-Tier Value: The MX5 and AX3L variants, at Rs 16.99 lakh, offer advanced tech like ADAS and a sunroof, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of cost and features.
- Premium Top Variants: The AX7L and AX5L, priced at Rs 18.99 lakh, include luxury features like ventilated seats and a premium audio system, targeting buyers seeking a high-end experience.
Conclusion of Mahindra Thar Roxx
Mahindra Thar Roxx is a bold evolution of an iconic SUV, blending rugged heritage with modern sophistication. Its commanding design, powerful engines, and segment-first features like a panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS make it a standout in the lifestyle SUV segment.
With competitive pricing starting at Rs 12.99 lakh and a versatile range of variants, the Roxx caters to both adventure enthusiasts and urban buyers. Its massive popularity, evidenced by 1.76 lakh bookings in one hour, underscores its market dominance.
Whether conquering off-road trails or cruising city streets, the Thar Roxx delivers an unmatched experience, solidifying Mahindra’s legacy as India’s SUV king. This wilder-than-ever SUV is here to redefine adventure.