Rejoice! 2020 Mahindra Thar Diesel Will Get An Automatic Option

• 2020 Thar to feature BS6 2.2-litre diesel engine.
• Automatic transmission likely to be an Aisin-sourced 6-speed torque converter.
• Prices likely to start from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom).

Earlier, we had reported that Mahindra is working on an automatic gearbox exclusively for the petrol variants of the 2020 Thar. This news, though welcome, could have been a let-down if you wanted a two-pedal setup in the diesel Thar. Now though it’s confirmed that Mahindra is working on an automatic variant for the diesel Thar and it has even been spotted testing in the country for the first time. 

The source in the video states that the model on test is the diesel automatic variant of the Thar. He also says the SUV will most likely reach showrooms by the end of August 2020. 

The 2020 Thar will feature the upgraded version of Mahindra’s 2.2-litre diesel engine that’s likely to develop 140PS of power and 320Nm of torque. Just like its petrol sibling, the diesel Thar is expected to utilise a 6-speed automatic transmission alongside a 6-speed manual gearbox. Keen eyes can also notice a low-range transfer case on the test mule, hinting that Mahindra will offer the diesel-automatic Thar with a four-wheel-drive powertrain. For specifications of the petrol powered Thar, head here.  

Based on countless spy shots, we know that the Thar has grown in size. It comes with a more modern interior with plenty of premium features to woo you. Take a closer look at it right here.  

Mahindra is going the extra mile for its upcoming SUV, which with an automatic gearbox and more features seems more desirable. That said, the new Thar won’t come cheap with the starting price likely to go beyond the Rs 10 lakh mark (ex-showroom). The 2020 Mahindra Thar will fight it out with the upcoming new-gen Force Gurkha and Maruti Suzuki Jimny.