Mahindra Thar: Old vs New

Mahindra has revealed the second-gen Thar in the country after a super long wait. It’s bigger, more premium and more feature loaded than the first-gen Thar. There are new engine and transmission options this time around as well. We’re also happy to report that the new model has managed to retain the rugged charm of the first-gen Thar. So let’s see how they compare in our detailed old vs new gallery:

In terms of design, the 2020 Thar looks similar to its predecessor with plenty of identical design elements. The size is the major difference between both models. Here’s how they compare:

 

The front end of the 2020 Thar is flatter and the extra width is very evident. It comes with Mahindra’s traditional slatted grille and round headlamps. However, the grille gets a slightly different design this time around.

Also, notice the new LED DRLs which sit on the flared wheel arches. The turn indicators are placed right below them. 

At the rear, the 2020 Mahindra Thar comes with LED tail lamps. Just like the first-gen Thar, the spare tyre is mounted on the tailgate. 

In profile, you’ll notice that 2020 Thar is larger than its predecessor. Right from the length to the alloy wheels and even the flared wheel arches, everything's bigger in the new car. While the old-Thar came with a factory fitted soft-top, the new one can be had with three roof options: fixed soft-top, convertible soft-top, and hard-top. 

 

Step inside the 2020 Mahindra Thar and you’ll notice that the cabin is more premium than before. It’s also IP54 water and dust rated for added protection. 

The foot wells are also washable and the water can be drained out as well. Also, have a look at the height adjustable driver seat, a feature that was missing in the old model.  

The centre console now comes with a touch screen infotainment system and below it sit round AC vents and the knobs for controlling the air-con. 

Also new is the updated instrument cluster which is more modern and packs more information than before. 

The new Thar gets a tonne of new features. Highlights include power windows, steering-mounted audio controls, cruise control as well as keyless entry.  

Unlike the old Thar which came with side-facing rear seats, higher variants of the new Thar come with forward-facing rear seats that are more conventional and safer. 

Another cool addition is the roof mounted speakers that are also water resistant. 

The new-gen Thar scores high on safety when compared to its predecessor. While the last batch of the old-gen Thar came with ABS only, the new one goes an extra step and comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability program, hill hold as well as rear parking sensors. 

Powering the Thar diesel is a 2.2-litre motor that develops 130PS of power and 300Nm of torque. Want a more refined experience? You can have the new Thar with a 2.0-litre petrol engine that dishes out 150PS and 320Nm. Here’s how both the engines compare to the older Thar in terms of power output:

Unlike before, the new Thar is offered with both manual and automatic transmission options. The 4x4 drivetrain along with the low range transfer case has been retained. Here’s how they fare in terms of off-road specs:

While the new Thar has a slightly lower approach  angle, it has superior departure and ramp over angle. It also stands higher off the ground when compared to its predecessor. Both models come with a mechanical rear locking differential. But the new Thar goes a step ahead and comes with a brake locking differential as well. 

The 2020 Mahindra Thar will lock horns with the Force Gurkha and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny.