Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR (Old)

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR (Old) is a rugged and capable off-roader that has garnered a loyal following in India. Powered by a 2523cc diesel engine, it delivers 63 bhp and 182.5 Nm of torque, making it adept at handling challenging terrain. The vehicle features a 5-speed manual transmission and a four-wheel drive system with a mechanical locking rear differential, which enhances its off-road capabilities. With a ground clearance of 187 mm and a kerb weight of 1750 kg, the Thar is built to tackle tough conditions. While it may not be the most comfortable on paved roads, its retro styling, robust build, and off-road prowess make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy adventure and off-roading.

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR (Old) is a vehicle that embodies the spirit of off-roading and adventure. With its robust 2523cc diesel engine producing 63 bhp and 182.5 Nm of torque, it is well-suited for those who love to venture off the beaten path. However, its on-tarmac manners leave much to be desired, with a choppy ride and fidgety steering that makes it less comfortable for daily driving. The interior quality, while improved in later models, still lacks in terms of build and materials. Despite these drawbacks, the Thars iconic design, four-wheel drive capability, and mechanical locking rear differential make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who prioritize off-road performance over everyday comfort.

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR, although discontinued, still holds a special place for off-road enthusiasts in India. Its 2523cc diesel engine, producing 63 Bhp and 182.5 Nm of torque, made it a favorite for those who love rugged terrain. The vehicle had a ground clearance of 187 mm and a fuel tank capacity of 45 litres. I think its robust build and off-road capabilities made it a standout in its segment.

In its heyday, the Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR was priced at around Rs. 7.25 lakh, making it an affordable option for those seeking a 4x4 SUV. The vehicle came with a 5-speed manual transmission and had a top speed of 138 kmph. Its ARAI certified mileage was 18.06 kmpl. I believe the pricing was one of the key factors that made it appealing to many buyers.

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR featured a leaf spring suspension with shock absorbers and an antiroll bar at the front, and a semi-elliptical leaf spring with a shock absorber at the rear. This setup provided a decent ride quality off-road but was known to be choppy on tarmac. I think this trade-off was acceptable for those prioritizing off-road performance.

One of the notable features of the Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR was its mechanical locking rear differential, which made it highly capable in sticky off-road situations. This feature, combined with its shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive, made it a go-to choice for serious off-roaders. I believe this feature was a game-changer for its time.

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR had a seating capacity of 7, with 2 forward-facing and 2 side-facing rear bench seats. However, it lacked modern safety features such as airbags. Despite this, it remained popular for its raw off-road capabilities and retro styling. I think the lack of safety features was a significant drawback, but its off-road prowess compensated for it.

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR (Old) was priced competitively in the Indian market before its discontinuation. The ex-showroom price for this variant was around Rs. 7.25 lakh in Delhi. When considering the on-road price, you would need to add costs such as registration, insurance, and other local taxes, which could push the total cost to around Rs. 8.5 lakh to Rs. 9 lakh, depending on the state and local regulations. Given its capabilities and the niche it fills, the Thar offered good value for money, especially for those looking for a dedicated off-roader without breaking the bank.

The Mahindra Thar 4x4 M2DiCR (Old) offers a respectable mileage for its class, with an ARAI-certified mileage of 18.06 kmpl. This is quite efficient considering its off-road focus and the power it delivers. For users concerned about running costs, this mileage is a positive aspect, as it balances the need for performance with reasonable fuel efficiency.