The term ‘SUV’ covers a wide category in India, from crossovers like the Seltos and Creta to jacked-up hatchbacks like the Ignis, Citroen C3, Tata Punch, Hyundai Exter, and so on. However, amongst these pseudo-SUVs, some survive, like the Mahindra Thar, Maruti Suzuki Jimny, and the Force Gurkha. Now, there is a new entrant, the Mahindra Thar Roxx, which will be launched on August 15.
The upcoming Mahindra Thar Roxx will compete with the Gurkha and Jimny in certain aspects, however, it will have to live up to the Thar’s capabilities, especially off-road. So, how will the two compare in terms of pure off-road capabilities? Let’s find out.
Mahindra Thar Roxx vs three-door Thar — Engine specifications
What makes an SUV capable is its engine, and let’s start with the engine specifications of the new Thar Roxx and its three-door counterpart, the Thar. The current Mahindra Thar gets three engine options — a 1.5-litre diesel engine, a 2.2-litre diesel engine, and a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. Gearbox options include a manual and an automatic.
| Specifications | 1.5 D | 2.2 D | 2.0 P |
| Displacement | 1.5-litre diesel | 2.2-litre diesel | 2.0-litre petrol |
| Power | 117 bhp | 130 bhp | 150 bhp |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 300 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Gearbox | MT | MT/AT | MT/AT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | 4WD | 4WD |
The base 1.5-litre version of the Thar comes with a two-wheel-drive (Rear) option only, while the other two engines get 4X4 as standard. With the Thar Roxx, the same engine options are expected in the same configuration.
Mahindra Thar Roxx — Off-road capabilities
Regarding the Roxx’s off-road capabilities, taking into consideration its powertrain and drive configuration, one might think it will be equally capable as the Thar three-door version. While the Roxx does get a capable part-time 4X4 option, its dimensions could be a drawback. While The Roxx will have the same approach and departure angle as the Thar three-door, including the same ground clearance, the longer wheelbase could limit the Roxx’s breakover angle.
While Mahindra has not revealed details of the Thar Roxx’s dimensions, we can expect it to be around 20 percent longer, which could result in a longer wheelbase as well. However, for an average person, this will hardly be noticeable. That said, the Thar Roxx will carry forward all the off-roading goodies the three-door version gets, including the Brake Locking Differential.
Mahindra Thar Roxx vs three-door Thar — Which one should you consider?
When it comes to everyday use, the Thar Roxx makes a lot of sense, owing to its extra seating and luggage space, while it can also take on long highway trips owing to its capable engines. The Roxx will also be capable when the pavement ends and the fun stuff begins, however, the three-door version will always have an advantage here.
But where the three-door Thar has to admit defeat is on long highway trips. Being a compact vehicle and a strict four-seater, there is no room for luggage and if you plan a long getaway, it has to be for two people only.
