Next generation Mahindra Thar expected to be unveiled in India on August 15

Mahindra and Mahindra is expected to unveil the second-generation of its flagship off-roader, the Mahindra Thar, in India on August 15. A leaked document, possibly a guide for dealerships, discloses that the new 4x4 will be unveiled on the Indian Independence Day. Bookings should open after the reveal.

The 2020 Thar is expected to be completely new from the ground up. It will likely sit on a newly developed ladder-frame chassis and carries a much larger footprint than before. It has moved upmarket with more creature comforts and the latest engines from the Mahindra line-up. Having said that, it still is expected to remain a focused off-roader with gear such as 4x4, a transfer case, extreme approach and departure angle, live axles and so on. The new Thar is the latest in a line that began with the MM Series, which then went on to become the Commander and Marshal. This was followed by the Classic and then in 2010, the Thar.

Numerous spy images have shown that the front fascia carries forward the Jeep CJ-derived look from the present car, complete with the 7-slat grille and with a slight roundedness. But the wider track and protruding wheel arches are more purposeful. There also seems to be a more advanced suspension set-up. The spare wheel also continues to be rear-mounted and the rear door will side-hinged.

The Thar's interiors are expected to be more upmarket and SUV-like with the steering-mounted controls, large MID and chrome surrounds for the AC controls. The plastic quality seems better and the layout quite a bit more modern, thanks to the large round AC vents. The passenger grab handle and a floor-mounted 4x4 shifter remind of its outdoor capability.

The new Thar is expected to be powered by the BSVI-compliant version of the 2.2-litre diesel engine currently seen on the Scorpio and XUV 500. This motor makes 140PS and 320 NM in the Scorpio, and similar numbers are expected here. This should be paired with a six-speed manual. Also expected is a petrol engine option for the first time. This should be a 2.0-litre from the Stallion range that debuted at the 2020 Auto Expo, making 190PS and 380 Nm. We expect prices to start from over Rs 10 lakh, ex-showroom.

Source: Team-BHP