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• Mahindra has unveiled its all-new Thar.
• New Thar will be powered by turbocharged petrol and diesel engines.
• It goes on sale in India this October.
• For more motoring stories, go to www.Wheels24.co.za
Mahindra has released the first images and videos of its all-new Thar 4x4.
The automaker says that the new 4x4 "is a quantum leap" of the package it offers over its predecessor. While staying true to its renowned off-road capabilities, Mahindra said it improved the Thar's performance, everyday comfort and convenience, and technology and safety.
Speaking at the unveiling, Dr Pawan Goenka, MD and CEO at Mahindra, said: "With the unveiling of the all-new Thar, we rewrite history once again. The Thar is firmly rooted in our rich automotive heritage and upholds the Mahindra DNA in its purest form. The all-new Thar is a dynamic expression of fun, freedom and independence, and is geared up for its next adventure."
The new Thar will be launched in India on 2 October 2020, which is also the country's Founders Day.
For the first time on the Thar, a petrol engine will make its debut. This new 2.0-litre turbo petrol unit will produce 112kW and 320Nm. Alongside it, a 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine will also do duty and is good for 97kW and 320Nm. Given the benefit of the turbochargers, expect both engines to produce their torque quite low in the rev range.
Both engines will be mated to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, and a Shift-on-the-Fly 4x4 manual shift transfer case with low crawl ratio will be standard across the range.
In keeping with the SUV's rugged nature, Mahindra has added a mechanical locking differential on the rear axle, a brake locking differential, a wading depth of 650mm, 226mm of ground clearance, and approach, departure, and ramp over angles of 41.8, 36.8, and 27-degrees, respectively.
The Thar rides on 255/65/R18 All-Terrain tyres.
Design and interior
The Thar continues with the iconic design of its predecessor but adds a modern touch to make it fresh and unique. On the new model, Mahindra has added LED daytime running lamps, dual-tone bumpers, LED tail lamps, and front fog lamps.
Mahindra also offers its new Thar with a choice of three roof options: a hardtop, a fixed soft top, or the manual convertible. The latter, says Mahindra, is a first in the Thar's class. This option, we think, will be a hit among those seeking the thrill of adventure.
Inside, the interior features an all-black theme with silver accents. Prospective owners will also be treated to sporty front seats, rear seats with a 50:50 split, roof-mounted speakers, and electric windows. The 18cm touchscreen infotainment system offers satellite navigation and is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible. The infotainment system also features 'Adventure Statistics Display', as well Adventure Connect (Mahindra Adventure Calendar Display), and the ability for smartwatches and phones to connect with the system via the Blue Sense app.
Mahindra South Africa is awaiting news from India as to when we can expect the new Thar to make its local debut, but this event will not happen in 2020.
2021 Mahindra Thar (Mahindra Media)
Compiled by: Charlen Raymond
