Introduction
There’s something magnetic about the Mahindra Thar Roxx-it literally demands attention the moment it rumbles up. Picture a bold, five-door SUV that marries raw adventure and everyday comfort. That’s no marketing blurb-it’s exactly how I felt during hours behind the wheel on winding hills and urban roads alike.
In this review, I’ll take you through every twist-engine buzz, cabin chatter, pothole-thumping, off-road swagger. By the end, you’ll know why this isn’t just another rugged SUV-it’s a daily companion with a wild side.
What’s Different from the 3-Door THAR?
- Longer wheelbase and a stiffer Gen‑4 ladder‑frame: Not just more cabin space but also improved stability and ride refinement.
- Panoramic sunroof, digital dash, Level 2 ADAS: Features typically missing in the Thar 3-door.
It’s essentially the Thar you know, but stretched, smoother, smarter.
Engine Performance & Drive Feel
Petrol‑AT (Auto Transmission)
- Powerful punch: 177 hp, 27 hp more than the standard petrol, plus two drive modes-Zip and Zoom. But honestly, Zip does the job. Quick, responsive, and refined.
- Transmission: Aisin 6-speed torque converter-smooth, early lock-up, no paddle shifters, but manual mode works decently.
Diesel (2.2 L mHawk)
- Broad torque: 172 hp and 370 Nm, with a smooth pull from low rpm to 4,700 rpm.
- Refinement: Sound insulation is excellent-road, engine, even AC noises are well suppressed. At steady highway speeds, a calm cabin sanctuary.
Real-world takeaway: The diesel is more torquey, efficient, and wallet-friendly; the petrol is smooth and punchy. Both powertrains feel polished in daily use.
Comfort & Handling
- Shocking for a body-on-frame: Less bounce, less wobble-even over uneven city roads, it was composed.
- Steering: The latest EPS is precise and confident-no floaty feel, even at triple‑digit speeds.
- Ride quality: Soft Spring setup absorbs potholes with ease, though the live axle can cause some low-speed bumpiness-never harsh, though. Big tyres help smooth edges.
Off-Road & Practicality
I took the Roxx into marshy terrain-and it just powered its way through. Boggy ground? No problem. Goal: capture dramatic “jump shots” for photography. Outcome: nailed it.
That ladder‑frame design and massive ground clearance make this a fearless off-roader. But it’s not just tough-it’s refined. Perfect for city life and weekend adventures.
Dimensions & Specs Snapshot
- Wheelbase: 2,850 mm-100 mm longer than Scorpio N for improved cabin space.
- Wheel size options: Up to 19″ alloys on select trims.
- Engines: 2.0 L turbo-petrol + 2.2 L diesel, manual and automatic options, 4WD available in diesel.
Strengths of Mahindra Thar ROXX
What it nails:
- Comfortably refined ride for both city and highway.
- Power-packed engines-particularly the diesel.
- Cabin quietness and fewer rattles.
- Rugged off-road ability you’d expect, yet civilized enough for daily driving.
What to watch out for:
- Live rear axle means occasional thumps in rear seats over slow bumps.
- Digital dash has a learning curve.
- Long ladder-frame vehicles aren’t as nimble as monocoque rivals.
Safety & Value
- 5-star Bharat NCAP rating: Best-in-class safety credentials.
- Price: On-road in Delhi from ~₹15.2 lakh to ₹27.4 lakh across trims.
You get a robust SUV with modern safety tech and features, but without an overly steep price tag.
Final Word
Driving the Thar Roxx feels like watching a classic explorer evolve into a modern-day hero. It’s not polished like some monocoque rivals-but that’s not who this SUV is for. It’s for someone who wants the thrill of a tough off-roader without sacrificing everyday comfort.
If you crave authentic, off-road heritage with a dash of urban practicality, the Roxx delivers. It’s a statement piece-ready for muddy trails or your daily commute-with a grin included at every turn.
Key Takeaways
- Smooth engines & solid gearboxes: Diesel is the standout; petrol is fun too.
- Comfort meets capability: Surprising ride quality for a rugged frame.
- Feature-rich cabin: Sunroof, ADAS, digital dash-brings modern comforts without reaching luxury price tags.
- Best-in-class safety: 5-star Bharat NCAP rating gives extra peace of mind.
For all expected prices ex‑showroom, official launch date, specifications and features about Mahindra Thar ROXX please refer to official Mahindra Automotive website.
You can also read on latest launches of EV-CARS here.
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