Mahindra Thar Armada With ADAS Could Launch In Australia

With the Thar Armada nearing domestic launch, Mahindra may consider introducing it in Australia. The Suzuki Jimny rival is reported to feature extensive styling and security technology to comply with foreign safety standards. At this point, the three-door Thar’s introduction there is uncertain.

Mahindra’s last attempt to launch the Thar in The Land Under came three years back but was met with a legal dispute with Jeep. Citing an “uncanny likeness” to the Wrangler SUV, Jeep caused Mahindra to drop its sales ambitions back then. 

The Australian government has mandated autonomous emergency braking (AEB) as standard in all newly introduced vehicles coming into effect this year. If reports are to be believed, the Thar Armada may come with AEB besides lane-keep assist and forward collision warning. However, it remains unclear if the five-seater will comply with ADR 85, Australia’s side-impact protection law. To note, AEB is a part of the Autonomous Driving Assistance System (ADAS) suite.

Upgrades to the interior may comprise two 10.25-inch infotainment units, a front centre armrest, panoramic sunroof (in top trim), 360-degree and front parking sensors. Six airbags could also be offered on this one as opposed to the three-door Thar which gets two airbags ahead. 

The rear-wheel drive engine lineup will sport a 1.5-litre diesel (as seen in the Thar) churning out 119 bhp and 300 Nm of pulling force. For higher-spec 4WD Armadas, we expect Mahindra to borrow Scorpio N’s 2-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel mills capable of producing 200 bhp, 370 Nm and 172 bhp and 400 Nm, respectively. Each of these could get an automatic gearbox apart from a six-speed manual.

Credit - Drive

Also read - Mahindra Thar 5-Door Launch Within 2 Months, Production Begins