The Mahindra Thar has undoubtedly set a high standard in its segment, overshadowing competitors like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and the Force Gurkha in terms of success in the Indian market. As the launch of the Mahindra Thar 5-door approaches, let's delve into the anticipated features that this more practical off-roader is expected to offer, setting it apart from the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
Sunroof
In today's market, a sunroof is more than just a luxury; it's a feature that many Indian car buyers actively seek out. The Thar 5-door is expected to cater to this demand by including a sunroof, a feature that is notably absent in the Jimny. This addition is likely to appeal to those who enjoy the sense of openness and freedom that a sunroof provides.
Larger Touchscreen
The Thar 5-door is anticipated to feature a new 10.25-inch touchscreen, an upgrade from the current 3-door Thar's 7-inch screen. This larger screen surpasses the Jimny's 9-inch unit and is expected to offer wireless smartphone connectivity, a feature already present in the Maruti off-roader.
Centre Armrests
Comfort is paramount in the Thar 5-door, which is expected to offer centre armrests for both front and rear passengers, adding an extra layer of convenience and relaxation. The Jimny with its focus on off-road functionality, lacks this feature, potentially making the Thar 5-door a more comfortable choice for long journeys.
Dual-Zone Climate Control
To further enhance the cabin experience, the Thar 5-door is likely to come equipped with dual-zone climate control, allowing different temperature settings for the driver and front passenger. This feature is a step up from Jimny's standard auto AC, providing a more tailored and comfortable environment.
Rear AC Vents
Recognizing the importance of rear passenger comfort, the 5-door Thar is set to include rear AC vents, ensuring efficient cooling throughout the cabin. This is a significant advantage over the Jimny which relies on front AC vents to cool the entire interior.
Rear Disc Brakes
The Thar 5-door is expected to come with rear disc brakes, providing better stopping power compared to the Jimny's rear drum brakes.
360-degree Camera
Parking and maneuvering larger vehicles can be challenging, which is why the inclusion of a 360-degree camera in the Thar 5-door is a noteworthy feature. This technology, not available in the Jimny, provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle's surroundings, making parking and off-roading more manageable.
Front Parking Sensors
To complement the 360-degree camera, the Thar 5-door is also expected to come with front parking sensors, further simplifying the parking experience. The Jimny, on the other hand, only offers rear parking sensors.
Digital Driver's Display
The Thar 5-door is anticipated to feature a digital driver's display, likely a 10.25-inch unit, providing a modern and informative interface for the driver. This is a departure from Jimny's analog setup which maintains a more traditional look.
Wireless Charging
In line with modern conveniences, the Thar 5-door is likely to offer wireless charging, allowing for easy and clutter-free charging of compatible smartphones. This feature is not available in the Jimny, making the Thar 5-door a more attractive option for tech-savvy buyers.
Pricing and Positioning
While the Maruti Jimny is well-equipped for its size, the Thar 5-door is expected to raise the bar in terms of size, comfort, and features, and will be priced accordingly. The Jimny's price range is from Rs. 12.74 lakh to Rs. 14.96 lakh, while the current Thar starts at Rs. 11.25 lakh and goes up to Rs. 17.60 lakh. The 5-door Thar is expected to start at around Rs. 15 lakh and will be available in both rear-wheel-drive and 4WD variants, offering a compelling blend of practicality and off-road capability.