Summary:
The Mahindra Thar 3-Door is one of India’s most iconic SUVs, loved for its rugged design, powerful performance, and unbeatable off-road capabilities. The latest generation brings modern features, better comfort, and improved safety, making it equally suited for city driving and adventure trails. This review covers every detail – from performance to features, pricing, pros & cons, and why it’s the go-to SUV for enthusiasts.
Quick Specifications – Mahindra Thar 3-Door
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L mStallion TGDi Petrol / 2.2L mHawk Diesel |
| Power Output | Petrol: 150 bhp / Diesel: 130 bhp |
| Torque | Petrol: 320 Nm / Diesel: 300 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4×4 with low-range transfer case |
| Seating Capacity | 4 |
| Boot Space | 433 litres (rear seats folded) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 litres |
| Ground Clearance | 226 mm |
| Price Range (Ex-showroom) | ₹11.35 lakh – ₹17.60 lakh |
Bold Road Presence and Design
The Mahindra Thar 3-Door is built to make a statement.
It has a muscular stance, high ground clearance, and large wheel arches that instantly grab attention.
The iconic round headlamps, vertical slatted grille, and side-hinged tailgate maintain its Jeep-inspired heritage.
Its short overhangs and upright windshield give it a purposeful off-road SUV look.
You can choose from both hard-top and convertible soft-top roof options, allowing you to customise your adventure experience.
Premium Yet Functional Interior
Inside, the Mahindra Thar offers a mix of rugged durability and modern comfort.
The cabin gets washable floor panels, so you don’t have to worry about dirt after off-road drives.
At the same time, features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, roof-mounted speakers, and automatic climate control add convenience.
Seats are supportive, and the elevated driving position gives excellent visibility.
However, being a 3-door SUV, rear-seat access requires folding the front seats, which may not be as convenient for families.
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Engine Options and Performance
Mahindra offers the Thar with two strong engine options:
- 2.0L mStallion TGDi Petrol – 150 bhp & 320 Nm
- 2.2L mHawk Diesel – 130 bhp & 300 Nm
Both engines are mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
The petrol variant feels quicker on highways, while the diesel variant offers better fuel efficiency and low-end torque for off-roading.
Off-Roading Capabilities
The Thar 3-Door is a true-blue off-roader.
It comes with a shift-on-fly 4×4 system, a low-range transfer case, and mechanical locking differentials.
Its 226 mm ground clearance, 650 mm water-wading capacity, and excellent approach & departure angles make it nearly unstoppable off the road.
On-Road Comfort
While older Thars were strictly off-roaders, the new generation is much more refined on city roads.
The suspension is tuned for better ride comfort, and the cabin feels insulated from most road noise.
However, due to its tall and boxy design, high-speed cornering is not its strongest point.
Safety Features
Mahindra has equipped the Thar with good safety features, including:
- Dual airbags
- ABS with EBD
- ESP with rollover mitigation
- Hill hold & hill descent control
- Rear parking sensors
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
It has also received a 4-star Global NCAP safety rating, making it one of the safest off-road SUVs in India.
Variants and Pricing
The Mahindra Thar 3-Door is available in multiple trims for both petrol and diesel.
Prices start at ₹11.35 lakh and go up to ₹17.60 lakh (ex-showroom).
This makes it more affordable compared to most lifestyle SUVs with similar capabilities.
Fuel Efficiency
- Petrol MT – ~12 km/l
- Diesel MT – ~15 km/l
- Automatic versions deliver slightly lower mileage.
Given its power and off-road nature, the Thar’s fuel economy is decent for its class.
Pros of Mahindra Thar 3-Door
- Legendary off-road performance
- Rugged and stylish design
- Powerful petrol and diesel engine options
- 4-star safety rating
- Convertible and hard-top options
Cons of Mahindra Thar 3-Door
- Limited boot space with rear seats up
- 3-door design reduces rear passenger convenience
- Not as comfortable for long highway journeys compared to monocoque SUVs
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar 3-Door is not just an SUV – it’s a lifestyle statement.
It appeals to those who love adventure, want a powerful vehicle, and enjoy standing out on the road.
While it may not be the most practical family SUV, it excels in what it’s built for – tough terrain and unmatched road presence.
For anyone looking for a fun, capable, and iconic SUV in India, the Thar remains a top choice.
FAQs – Mahindra Thar 3-Door
Q1: Is Mahindra Thar 3-Door good for daily use?
Yes, it’s more comfortable than before, but keep in mind its 3-door practicality and mileage.
Q2: Which is better – Petrol or Diesel Thar?
Petrol is smoother and more powerful on highways, while diesel is better for torque and fuel economy.
Q3: Can I use Thar for long road trips?
Yes, but comfort is better for 2-3 passengers rather than a full load.
Q4: Does Mahindra Thar 3-Door have automatic transmission?
Yes, both petrol and diesel variants offer a 6-speed automatic option.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar 3-Door 2025 remains India’s go-to SUV for adventure enthusiasts. Its unparalleled off-road capability, bold character, and rugged charm make it a standout choice. While it is not made for refined urban commuting, it excels where rough terrain, personality, and rugged performance intersect. For those who crave real adventure, the Thar still rules the trail.
