Mahindra & Mahindra is working on expanding the Thar SUV’s range in the Indian market by introducing two new versions of the off-roader this year – a more affordable rear-wheel drive version, as well as a 5-door iteration. The former is expected to be launched first, sitting below the current all-wheel drive-only Thar.
New details of the upcoming Thar RWD/Thar 2WD have been leaked online, revealing that the SUV will be available with two powertrain options. The first will be the same 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that is currently available, which will be offered with the 6-speed AT as standard. The engine will be offered in the same state of tune as the Thar petrol AT 4×4, i.e. 150 PS/320 Nm.
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However, the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine will be replaced on the more affordable Thar with a new D117 1.5-litre diesel motor, putting out 117 PS of maximum power and 300 Nm of peak torque. While the torque output remains unchanged as compared to the larger 2.2-litre diesel engine, the power has come down by 13 PS. That said, the diesel version will only be available with a 6-speed manual gearbox, as per the leaked data.
What’s more, Mahindra will introduce two new colour options for the Thar RWD, namely Everest White and Blazing Bronze. The latter is the same paint scheme that is offered with the XUV300 TurboSport that was launched in India last year. The current colour options on offer with the Thar include Red Rage, Galaxy Grey, Napoli Black and Aqua Marine.
While a launch date hasn’t been confirmed yet, the Mahindra Thar RWD could go on sale this month itself. Are you excited for the more affordable rear-wheel drive Thar? Let us know in the comments below.Source
