Mahindra is looking at introducing a new base model in the Thar line-up. This could be due to the imminent launch of the Maruti Suzuki Jimny in the coming months. Recently, Mahindra introduced rear-wheel-drive variants of the Thar, and buyers can now get a Thar at lower prices. Now, it looks like Mahindra plans to bring back the base AX model as well.
Back in 2020, Mahindra had offered the Thar AX version with side facing rear seats. However, due to advise from crash test authorities, the variant was chucked due to not meeting the 4-star NCAP rating that the front facing rear seat models met.
Now, according to a leaked document, Mahindra is looking at relaunching this variant albeit with a few changes. The document reveals that the new AX version will come with 4-seats, which could mean front facing rear seats as standard.
As per the document, the new base model of the Thar will get a petrol or a diesel manual powertrain. This means it will sit below the AX (O) variant, which is offered with both petrol and diesel engine along with manual or automatic gearbox.
In the Thar AX AC 4WD, the turbo-petrol 2.0 motor is good for 152 BHP and 300 Nm of peak torque. Meanwhile the 2.2-litre diesel will churn out 130 BHP and 300 Nm.
Another variant that catches the eye is the Thar AX AC B P MT 4WD. Here, the letter B denotes something new. Could this mean that Mahindra is looking at a bi-fuel option as well in the entry level Thar? The only bifuel option we can think of is the petrol-CNG combo.
Mahindra might do well with a CNG variant considering the popularity of the clean fuel across multiple cities. Infact, in markets like Delhi NCR where life of diesel and petrol vehicles is capped at 10 and 15 years respectively, a CNG variant can outlive them both.
While Mahindra has not yet revealed the prices, we can consider the fact that the new Thar base model with less features could be priced at a good discount over the loaded variants. Hence, an INR 1.5 lakh price reduction as compared to the AX (O) variant. This means the petrol variant could be starting around INR 12 lakh mark with the diesel coming in at INR 12.5 lakh.
Also Read – New Mahindra Thar crosses 1 lakh production milestone.