The Mahindra Thar is considered an automotive icon in India. It is celebrated worldwide for its unique retro design that captures the essence of the Indian outdoors and unmatched off-roading capabilities to conquer the most challenging terrains. Recently, Mahindra took the legendary Thar franchise to even greater heights with the launch of the high-performance, feature-packed Thar ROXX.
The muscular Thar ROXX powered by cutting-edge technology across critical aspects like powertrain, handling and safety – takes off-road exploration and everyday driveability to a whole new level.
In this comprehensive blog, we detail the technology, engineering, and performance attributes powering the magnificent Thar ROXX across critical areas, including design, powertrain, tech features, handling dynamics, customisations, and more.
Design and Engineering
The Thar ROXX features several design and engineering enhancements for amplified rugged appeal:
- Signature retro-inspired exterior styling with a muscular hood, round headlamps and side footsteps as a homage to the iconic first-gen Thar.
- Heavily updated front fascia with an aggressive matte black bumper housing integrated LED DRLs, fog lamps and wide air intakes for improved airflow
- New dual-tone alloy wheels (18-inch) shod with all-terrain tyres for maximized traction across loose surfaces
- Carbon fiber finished roof, ORVMs, and tailgate for motorsport-inspired performance appeal.
- Custom ROXX decals on the hood and sides for a distinctive identity
Furthermore, the Thar ROXX is the first Mahindra SUV to use high-strength steel combined with specialized alloys for increased structural rigidity while retaining the lightweight DNA of the Thar platform, resulting in even better off-road agility.
Performance and Powertrain
At the heart of the Thar ROXX’s thrilling real-world performance is an all-new upgraded BS6-compliant 2-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces a segment-leading 160 bhp power (up from 150 bhp in standard Thar) and 330 Nm torque, coupled with a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
The key highlights include:
- 0 to 100 km/h in sub-10-second time, making it the fastest Thar ever with better acceleration than the likes of Gurkha and Gypsy.
- Strong low-end torque delivery translates to effortless drivability, whether crawling over rocks or cruising on highways.
- Signature single-scroll turbo and race-tuned free-flow exhaust system generate an adrenaline-pumping roar for an immersive drive experience.
- Shift-on-fly 4×4 system with mechanical locking differentials for exceptional traction across slippery surfaces like slush, mud, snow, and sand – allowing experienced drivers to push the vehicle to its limit.
Technology and Infotainment
In line with its positioning as a lifestyle-oriented SUV for modern adventure seekers, the Thar ROXX pampers occupants with a contemporary tech-enabled cabin featuring:
- High-resolution 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system loaded with Android Auto, Apple Carplay for smartphone mirroring, and Mahindra’s proprietary Adventure Intelligence connected app to relay real-time vehicle telemetry data for off-roading trips.
- 6-speaker audio setup with a dedicated amplifier and subwoofer for an immersive acoustic experience
- Multi-function leather-wrapped steering wheel with convenient controls for cruise, audio playback, and voice commands.
- Fully digital TFT instrument cluster with techno-themed graphics and accessible access information like speed, rpm, fuel level, ambient temperature, etc.
- Advanced BlueSense telematics suite powered by IoT connectivity for remote vehicle tracking, geofencing, live vehicle health monitoring, and preventive maintenance alerts – adding extra peace of mind for owners
Passengers can also enjoy on-the-move infotainment via two fast-charging USB ports, 1 SD card slot, and Bluetooth/WiFi for wireless screen mirroring and smartphone audio streaming.
Suspension and Handling
A key reason behind the Thar ROXX’s undisputed off-roading supremacy combined with stable dynamics on the tarmac is the specially tuned suspension and handling setup, including:
- Multi-link coil spring rear suspension along with anti-roll bars for improved ride quality and handling on broken roads, along with the ability to articulate better across challenging off-road conditions without getting stuck – as compared to the regular Thar
- Gas-charged monotube shock absorbers with optimized damping for maximum bump absorption and stability across uneven terrain
- The Mahindra Thar Roxx has a ground clearance of about 226 mm
- State-of-the-art ESP system with rollover mitigation paired with off-road biased traction control, brake locking differential, and a hill-hold assist for maximized grip and control, especially during steep inclines and declines off-tarmac
As a result, the Thar ROXX delivers car-like comfort on the road along with heroic off-roading dexterity across mud, ruts, and rocks alike – living up to its positioning as an accessible yet hardcore offroader.
Safety and Armour
In line with modern SUVs, the Thar ROXX offers robust protection courtesy of various active and passive safety technologies:
- Six airbags along with a collapsible steering column and crumple zones to cushion occupants in case of collisions
- Advanced ESP system with rollover mitigation for preventing fatal tip-overs – crucial during tricky off-road situations
- 3-point seatbelts for all passengers with pretensioners and load limiters, along with a rear parking camera for safety
- ABS with EBD and brake assist for the shortest braking distance on loose terrain
- LED DRLs with integrated turn indicators, fog lamps and reverse parking sensors for maximized visibility, along with hazard lights for emergency stops
Plus, the Thar ROXX comes equipped with proprietary Adventure Norma armouring, including a sump guard, differential protector, brake cooling ducts, etc., for added protection against rough elements.
Customisation and Accessories
Customers can personalize theThar ROXX to their taste via Mahindra’s exclusive customisation options:
- Exterior full-body wrap color options, such as Deep Blue, Stealth Black, and Tango Red, add even more flair to the SUV’s imposing street presence.
- Optional soft top with easy remove and install capability, fixed hardtop or convertible hard top choices catering to both open-air freedom lovers and all-weather practicality seekers
- Matching coloured seat covers and premium branded floor mats by Thar for an elevated in-cabin feel
- Roof carriers and bike mounting racks certified by Mahindra for expanding luggage capacity during getaways
- Merchandise like outdoor jackets, keychains, and coffee mugs allow customers to flaunt their Thar ROXX affiliation.
Buyers also get a complimentary 1-year membership to the official Thar Owner’s Club.
Impact and Market Position
As the fastest and most feature-packed Thar ever, the ROXX has propelled Mahindra’s iconic SUV into a new orbit in the Indian auto space. It has also further bolstered the Thar’s cult status among off-roading enthusiasts and fans.
Despite its premium positioning, the ROXX offers unmatched value compared to 4×4 SUV rivals from Jeep, Force Motors by delivering:
- A more powerful engine compared to the top variants of Compass and Gurkha
- Higher torque output than the likes of Hector and Harrier
- More features than base variants of the Jeep Wrangler and Isuzu V-Cross
Comparison with Competitors
Vs Jeep Compass Trailhawk
While both SUVs are closely matched, the Thar ROXX edges ahead with:
- More hardcore off-roading capabilities courtesy of higher ground clearance, 4×4 low ratio gear and differential locks
- Exclusive carbon-fibre exterior add-ons and adventurous merchandise
- Segment-first Adventure Intelligence and BlueSense telematics tech
Vs Force Gurkha
The Thar ROXX outguns the Gurkha across the parameters:
- A significantly more powerful 182 bhp petrol engine
- Premium touches like auto AC, touchscreen infotainment and connected tech
- Advanced traction aids like ESP, brake locking differential and hill hold assist
Vs Isuzu D-Max V-Cross
Mahindra’s beast outpaces the Isuzu with:
- A petrol engine compared to Isuzu’s diesel mill for easier maintenance
- Cutting-edge connectivity techs like Adventure Intelligence and BlueSense telematics
- 226 mm ground clearance against Isuzu’s 205 mm for conquering extreme off-road conditions
Conclusion
The new Thar ROXX sets an uncharted benchmark for Indian SUVs with its irresistible mix of retro design, adrenaline-pumping performance, extreme off-roading chops and latest tech features.
Carefully engineered by Mahindra to push the Thar legacy to epic new highs, the ROXX offers an unbeatable package for thrill-seekers who work excellently as an everyday road warrior. It expands the appeal of the Thar franchise among hardcore off-road junkies and general buyers alike, thereby cementing Mahindra’s category leadership.
