Hit the THAR-tle

With an engine that roars, the new Mahindra Thar doubles down on what those who sit behind its wheel enjoy most: off-roading

- LEKSHMI C PILLAI

AHINDRA has recently launched the facelifted version of its iconic SUV, the Thar. Although the external character remains as rugged and impressive as before, Mahindra has added numerous utility features and upgrades to the much-loved SUV, without altering its technical specifications.

Mahindra provided us with an opportunity to test its off-road prowess at its Off-road Adventure Training Academy at Igatpuri, Maharashtra. Let me introduce the changes and upgrades in the new Thar first, and then go to the off-road experience.

The grille is now body coloured. The bumper is now dual-tone, and the all-black dashboard has a new 26.03 cm HD infotainment touch screen and a new steering design. These are highlights we can see at first sight. And on a closer look, we can see grand handles to help enter the SUV easily.

Other easily notable utility features are the fuel-lid opening switch in the cabin, rear AC vents, and power-window switches on the doors. The new centre console has a sliding armrest too. Dead pedal in Automatic Transmission variants, rear wash & wiper, and rear view camera are also very useful additions.

However, some sore points remain, such as entry to the rear bench, very little boot space, etc.