Mahindra Thar OG Gets New 4WD Tech and More Powerful Diesel Engine

Mahindra has launched the new Thar OG in India with several major updates to its platform, suspension, powertrain and features. Prices for the updated 3-door SUV start at Rs 10.32 lakh and go up to Rs 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

While the Thar retains its familiar design and off-road-focused character, Mahindra has made important changes underneath the SUV. The biggest updates include a new 4WD system, improved suspension and more powerful petrol and diesel engines.

New 4WD Tech for Thar OG

The new Thar OG gets an electronic locking differential on its 4WD variants. It replaces the mechanical locking differential offered with the previous model. The system is designed to improve traction when one or more wheels lose grip. This can be useful while driving over loose sand, mud or uneven off-road surfaces. The 4WD variants also get three terrain modes — Mud, Sand and Snow. These modes adjust the vehicle's systems according to the selected surface to help improve traction and control.

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More Powerful 2.2-Litre Diesel Engine

One of the biggest changes is the updated 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine. The engine now produces 152 PS and 330 Nm, compared with 132 PS and 300 Nm in the outgoing Thar. This means the new model gets 20 PS more power and 30 Nm more torque.

The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine has also received an output increase. It now produces 162 PS and 330 Nm, compared with 150 PS and up to 320 Nm in the previous version. The entry-level 1.5-litre diesel engine continues with the same output as before.

The 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines are offered with 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearboxes on 4WD variants. RWD versions with these engines are available only with the automatic gearbox.

New Platform and Suspension

The Thar OG is built on the new M_Glyde 4G ladder-frame chassis, which is a shortened version of the platform used by the five-door Thar Roxx. Mahindra says the new platform offers higher structural stiffness and torsional rigidity. The SUV also gets a new PENTALINK rear suspension with a Watts link.

The new suspension is designed to improve ride comfort and reduce body roll on the road. At the same time, it helps improve articulation, axle control and traction when driving off-road. Mahindra has also introduced its DAVINCI damping technology, which uses frequency-dependent damping to improve ride quality without compromising off-road performance.

Thar OG Gets More Features

The new Thar OG also gets several cabin and safety upgrades. It now features a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, embossed leatherette seats and a soft rear armrest with a cupholder. Other additions include push-button start, a rear Type-C charging port and wireless charging for front occupants. The safety package has also been upgraded with six airbags and disc brakes on all four wheels.

New Thar OG Prices and Variants

Mahindra has expanded the Thar OG range with more variants. The base AXT variant is offered with the 1.5-litre diesel engine and 2WD. The LXT range includes seven variants, priced between Rs 12.99 lakh and Rs 17.99 lakh. The ZXT variants are priced from Rs 13.99 lakh to Rs 18.99 lakh.

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