The New Thar OG
Starting at about $10,700 and topping out at around $18,500, you can get the new Mahindra Thar OG. This all-new model from Mahindra reimagines India’s most iconic lifestyle SUV. This new model continues the story Mahindra started with the first iteration of the Thar, introduced in 2010 and based on the Mahindra MM540, a nameplate in production in India since the 1980s.
The first generation of the Thar was much closer to the classic Jeeps, but once the second generation was introduced in 2010, the model essentially became a more affordable Jeep Wrangler.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: this is a Jeep clone through and through, but a quick Google will show you that Mahindra actually had a license to create its own version of the Jeep CJ, cementing the look in Mahindra’s history books since the 1940s, so it’s a bit of an admission that it takes from the iconic Jeep look. Mahindra also won a case in court that allowed it to sell another off-roader in the U.S. despite similarities between it and another Jeep model.
Mahindra
“An Indian Icon”
According to Mahindra’s press release, “Reimagining a legend was never about rewriting its story. It is about honouring its spirit while making it relevant for a new era. Since inception, the Thar has evolved from being just an SUV into an Indian icon, inspiring a unique Thar Life built around exploration, freedom, and self-expression.”
The front features a bold new grille and headlights. Now, I wouldn’t call it an “Indian Icon,” but it does have an iconic, rugged look. Mahindra refreshed the design and ushered it into a new era, with 19-inch alloy wheels, rugged front and rear bumpers, and a wider track. It still retains the three-door body style, similar to the Suzuki Jimny, and a boxy aesthetic.
The new Thar OG uses the M_Glyde 4G platform and rides on a rear Pentalink suspension with a Watts Link for better cornering stability and control. Mahindra also has an adaptive suspension feature called Davinci Damping Technology with Frequency Dependent Damping for an enhanced ride.
Mahindra
“More Capable”
The Thar OG features a ton of off-road-specific features. At this price, you already get an Electronic Locking Differential, Terrain Modes (Mud, Sand, and Snow), and three engine options. Sadly, no electrified hybrid system here, but what did you expect from a car that goes for under $20,000?
At its base is a CRDe diesel engine with 116 horsepower and 221 ft-lbs of torque. Step up, and you get the D22 mHawk Diesel, which produces 150 horsepower and 243 ft-lbs of torque. At the top of the heap is the G20 TGDi mStallion gasoline motor, which makes 159 horsepower and 243 ft-lbs of torque. Not all trims will receive four-wheel-drive, however.
It’s amazing to think you can get an off-road-ready vehicle for less than $20,000, but the rules are very different in India.
Mahindra
