The Mahindra Thar has made waves across India, not just with its rugged style but as a symbol of adventure that sits right in the driveway.
However, for many, the real question is straightforward: is it just a ride for the weekends, or can it be a reliable everyday set of wheels? This blog breaks this down, sharing what it really feels like to live with the Thar every day.
How the Thar Feels in Traffic
Sliding into the Mahindra Thar, the first thing that hits is that tall driving position. It gives a safe feeling, especially on jam-packed city roads. The steering may seem big at first, but modern versions feel light thanks to power assistance. Manoeuvring in packed city lanes or busy markets turns out easier than expected because while Thar looks massive, its length is actually less than that of some popular sedans.
- Commanding view, good road awareness
- Not as bulky to park as you might think
Still, the wider stance means finding the right parking spot is sometimes frustrating, but that's true for most SUVs.
Cabin Comfort
Inside, there’s a clear step up from the older Thar. Mahindra has added improved seats, touchscreen infotainment, and handy tech for daily drivers. The cabin design keeps things functional, yet soft surfaces and modern plastics mean it doesn’t feel unpleasant. Air conditioning and a firm but supportive seating position make traffic jams less tiring.
- Improved touchscreen with off-road info
- Comfortable for long and short hauls
Yet, if the cabin is packed with friends, the rear seats are tight. Boot space is limited, so it is better not to expect massive shopping trips without using the rear seats.
Fuel Bills and Maintenance
With three different engine types like a 2.0 L mStallion Turbo Petrol With Direct Injection (TGDi), 1.5 L mHawk Turbo Diesel with CRDe and 2.2 L mHawk Turbo Diesel with CRDe, Thar seems to be a powerful model. Petrol automatics might give around 9 to 10 kmpl in the city, and diesels offer slightly more.
Long daily runs take their toll on the wallet, especially in crowded city driving. Yet, for moderate use, costs are on par with rivals in this class, and most basic spares are widely available throughout India.
- Diesel versions are more suited for long runs
- Petrol auto is ideal for traffic, but not for pushing mileage
Ride Quality in Daily Use
Over broken roads, speed bumps, and big potholes, Thar feels at home. Its coil-spring suspension and huge tyres soak up bad surfaces without a fuss. While the ride is on the firmer side, it stays stable at high speeds on highways and doesn’t toss everyone about inside. This ‘toughness’ makes it easy to handle city driving, monsoons, or even sudden detours on rough paths.
The suspension is built for all surfaces, and large tyres mean less worry about punctured wheels. That said, steering is more accurate than older Thars, but it may not offer the nimbleness of a hatchback on winding city roads.
Daily Practicality and Living with the Thar
Turning the Thar into a daily driver means small trade-offs. Getting in and out takes a bigger step up, especially for elders or kids. Visibility is great, but the chunky pillars need getting used to, as they sometimes block the side view. Rear visibility, in particular, is limited, so slow backing up is the way to go. Maintenance is easy with a water-resistant interior, and excellent water-wading depth means monsoon floods are less trouble.
Safety, Features and Gadgets
Recent Thars get a 4-star safety rating in Global NCAP. It has dual airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-hold, and descent controls. There’s cruise control for highway days, rear-parking sensors, and tyre pressure monitoring. These features all help with daily driving. The infotainment system isn’t just for music; it also helps monitor things like real-time tilt, compass, and off-road stats.
Is Thar Only for the Weekend?
The Thar’s best side is still those rugged terrains, but the difference now is that it is also suitable for those who need it every day. People use it for daily commutes and grocery runs, and in Indian cities, the height and presence can be surprisingly practical.
But, it’s fair to note:
- Rear seats can feel cramped
- Boot space is limited (shopping requires planning or folding seats)
- The ride is firmer than a regular city car
- Fuel economy isn’t its strong point
Who Should Use the Thar Daily?
If city traffic, office hours, and family duties fill up most of the week, Thar asks for some compromises. Those who do regular long highway trips or like the option of going off-road will find the trade worthwhile. For buyers who need space for four adults or more, or who drive mostly in tight city lanes, it may not be the only car the household uses.
Conclusion
Mahindra Thar has moved far from being only a weekend plaything. It stands out for those who value a dose of adventure in their routine and like the visual punch it brings on the road. It’s not the most practical for big family outings or those counting every rupee on fuel, but it brings comfort, safety, and skills for both city life and wild escapes. For Indian buyers who want daily SUV duties with real go-anywhere grit, Thar scores where it matters most.
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