Mahindra Thar 3-Door 2025: The Iconic Off-Roader Reinvented

Blending Heritage with Modern Capability, the Mahindra Thar 3-Door Remains India’s Most Beloved Lifestyle SUV for On-Road and Off-Road Thrills.

The Mahindra Thar 3-Door stands as a symbol of rugged freedom and off-road capability, designed to tackle the most challenging terrains while maintaining a strong road presence in urban settings. With a heritage that traces back to India’s military vehicles, the Thar has evolved into a lifestyle SUV that blends adventure, modern comforts, and retro charm.

Visually, the Mahindra Thar 3-Door Thar retains its classic boxy silhouette that has become its trademark. The upright windshield, circular headlamps, flat bonnet, and prominent wheel arches pay homage to its roots, while modern touches like LED DRLs, alloy wheels, and new grille designs help it stay contemporary. The short wheelbase enhances its off-road prowess, allowing for better maneuverability over rocks, sand, and mud.

The Thar is available in both soft-top and hard-top variants, catering to enthusiasts who value open-air driving as well as those seeking more insulation and security. Its three-door format gives it a sporty, compact appeal that emphasizes agility. While the rear access may be less convenient compared to a five-door, the three-door version remains true to its core identity—an adventure-first machine.

Inside the cabin, the Thar offers a utilitarian yet feature-rich environment. The interiors have been upgraded significantly in recent years, with durable materials and washable cabin surfaces suited for off-road excursions. The dashboard layout is straightforward, and the controls are easily accessible. It features a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a semi-digital instrument cluster, steering-mounted controls, and roof-mounted speakers. While creature comforts are modest compared to city SUVs, they are well-aligned with the Thar’s rugged personality.

Space in the front seats is generous, with good visibility and high seating for commanding views. The rear seats, though less spacious due to the three-door design, can accommodate two adults for short to medium journeys. Folding rear seats allow for added boot space when needed, particularly useful during road trips or weekend getaways.

Performance-wise, the Mahindra Thar is a true 4×4 with real off-road credentials. It comes with two engine options—a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine and a 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine. The turbo-petrol unit produces around 150 bhp and 320 Nm of torque, while the diesel variant delivers 130 bhp and 300 Nm. Both engines are available with 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions. The four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case and mechanical locking rear differential makes it capable of handling steep climbs, river crossings, and rocky trails with confidence.

What sets the Thar apart is not just its powertrain but the confidence it instills in the driver when the terrain gets tough. Its approach, departure, and break-over angles are class-leading, and the high ground clearance paired with wide off-road tires ensures that the vehicle can take on obstacles with ease. Water wading depth of up to 650 mm adds to its capability in challenging environments.

Despite its off-road focus, the Mahindra Thar 3-DoorMahindra Thar 3-DoorMahindra Thar 3-Door performs reasonably well on highways and city roads. The steering feels planted, although the ride can be bouncy over potholes due to its ladder-frame construction and short wheelbase. Still, for those who prioritize adventure over absolute comfort, the Thar offers an engaging drive that few in its price segment can match.

Safety has been taken seriously in the newer Thar models. It comes equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, ISOFIX child seat mounts, hill-hold and hill-descent control, and a roll cage. These features, along with its Global NCAP safety rating of 4 stars for adult occupants, make it one of the safer choices in its category.

Fuel efficiency for the Thar hovers between 12 to 15 km/l, depending on the engine and driving conditions. While not the most economical SUV, it balances this with its raw capabilities and the ability to go where most vehicles can’t.

Mahindra offers the Thar in several trims to suit different preferences, from a more basic AX variant aimed at hardcore off-roaders to the LX variant that offers more tech and comfort features. Each variant maintains the essence of the Thar—durable, capable, and designed for freedom.

In India, the Mahindra Thar 3-Door has become a cult favorite. Its appeal cuts across age groups, attracting young enthusiasts, seasoned travelers, and even city dwellers who want a vehicle that stands out in a sea of sedans and hatchbacks. It’s not just a car—it’s a statement, a vehicle that signifies the desire to explore, escape, and experience life beyond paved roads.

For those considering a vehicle that offers adventure, legacy, and individuality, the Thar 3-Door remains a compelling choice. Whether navigating city traffic with presence or exploring Himalayan trails with grit, the Thar lives up to its legendary status, reaffirming Mahindra’s place in the hearts of off-road lovers across India.

As of 2025, the Mahindra Thar 3-Door is priced in India approximately between:

Rs 11.25 lakh to Rs 17.20 lakh (ex-showroom)

Price Breakdown by Variant (Approximate):

AX (Petrol Manual 4×4) – ₹11.25 lakh
AX (Diesel Manual 4×4) – ₹12.50 lakh
LX (Petrol Automatic 4×4) – ₹15.60 lakh
LX (Diesel Automatic 4×4) – ₹17.20 lakh

Note: Prices may vary depending on location, variant, taxes, and optional accessories. On-road prices will be higher and should be checked with a local Mahindra dealership.

Last Updated On 28 May 2025.