Maruti Jimny vs Mahindra Thar: 4x4 Hardware Compared

The Maruti Jimny is one of the most anticipated launches in India, as it brings back a long-lost vehicle segment to the market – the affordable Japanese lifestyle off-roader. The Mahindra Thar, which arrived much earlier in 2020, has already set the bar high for the lifestyle 4x4 SUV segment with its powerful drivetrains and ample off-roading hardware. 

So, can the diminutive Jimny hold a candle to the mighty Thar on an off-road trail? Here’s a look at the two SUVs’ off-roading hardware and specs. 

The basics: Approach and departure angles 

*three-door model’s figure used for reference

The Jimny has lower ground clearance than the Thar and is shorter in height. It has a comparatively lower approach angle, but the stubby rear end gives it an excellent departure angle, which should allow the Jimny to climb down steep descents. 

Another advantage the Jimny has over the Thar is its lower weight figure. The tiny Maruti SUV is a full 540kg lighter than the Thar, which should make it more nimble in certain off-road conditions. 

The ramp breakover angle is comparatively lower in the Maruti SUV, owing to its longer wheelbase. That said, these numbers are incredible nonetheless, and on a side note, both SUVs have a strong aftermarket support for modifying them according to one’s needs. 

Off-roading hardware: Suspension 

Suspension plays an important role while off-roading – you need a setup that allows for good wheel articulation and is rugged enough to take the beating on an off-road trail. 

Maruti Jimny five-door front suspension

The Jimny’s old school suspension setup can make a 4x4 enthusiast drool. The front and rear rigid axles provide good wheel articulation and ruggedness in the same package. Meanwhile, the Thar has a similar multi-link rigid axle setup in the back, but a modern independent front suspension.

Maruti Jimny five-door rear suspension

Powertrains and transmission 

The Thar has a clear power advantage with its big displacement turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. It also gets more highway-friendly six-speed gearbox options. That said, the Jimny’s 1.5-litre petrol engine and transmissions, combined with its low weight, should make for a fun-to-drive SUV nonetheless. 

The Jimny has its off-roading kit in order with a low-range transfer case for climbing steep inclines. It has Suzuki’s AllGrip Pro 4x4 system and uses a brake-based system to regulate power to the wheels instead of a mechanically locking differential (MLD). 

Note that the Thar’s 4x4 system is no longer standard, and a two-wheel drive variant is also available. The RWD variant gets a different 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine under the bonnet, in addition to a 2-litre turbo petrol option. The 4x4 variants of the Thar use similar brake-based differentials at the front and rear, but the diesel 4x4 particularly gets the option of an MLD at the rear axle.

Both SUVs are also equipped with electronic aids such as stability control (ESP), ABS, hill-hold assist and hill descent control. 

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Final word 

This is a comparison of the off-roading specs, not of prowess. An off-roader’s capability depends on various factors, and both SUVs are incredibly capable and have their own strengths. Keep an eye out for our review to find out how the Jimny performs off the road. 

For now, there’s another comparison left: the price. The Thar’s powerful engines come at a steep price ranging between Rs 13.59 lakh and Rs 16.29 lakh (all prices ex-showroom). Its two-wheel drive variant has been introduced to make the lifestyle SUV more affordable, and starts at Rs 9.99 lakh. The Jimny’s prices are yet to be announced, but we expect it to be a tad less expensive than the 4x4 Thar, starting at around Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).