As Mahindra continues testing the next-gen Thar, yet
another batch of spy shots has surfaced online. The latest images are of a test
mule that was spotted on the outskirts of Chennai. The all-new Mahindra Thar will be
seen with a number of cosmetic and mechanical changes. It will be based on the
same ladder-frame chassis as the 2020 Mahindra Scorpio. It will flaunt an
evolutionary design and will be longer and wider than the present model. Its
bigger dimensions are clearly visible from the latest spy pictures.
In terms of looks, the next-gen Mahindra Thar
features the signature seven-slot vertical grille at the front which is flanked
by the round halogen headlamps in the same style as on the CJB3, front
fender-mounted turn indicators as on the outgoing model, a wide, flat bonnet,
an upright windscreen and a spare wheel bolted on to a side-hinged tailgate.
Its vertical brick-shaped tail lights have shrunken but still manage to gel
well with the shape of the rear-end. The redesigned model is apparently wider,
and this gives it a more appealing stance.
The next-gen Mahindra Thar will be kitted with
several basic safety features such as driver airbag, rear parking sensors, speed
alert system and more, so that it complies with the AIS 145 safety norms which
kicked in from 1 July 2019. Also, its more robust construction and enhanced
design will allow it to pass the stringent BNVSAP crash tests which will be
mandatory from 1 October 2019. On the inside, the next-gen model will have a
multi-function steering wheel, updated instrument cluster with a big MID placed
between the dials, and it will also feature a new dashboard layout with a
provision for an infotainment system. Also, it is supposed to be more
comfortable and family-oriented compared to the model it replaces.
The next-gen Mahindra Thar will be powered by a
BS-VI 2.0-litre diesel engine which will be tuned to produce 140 PS and 300 Nm.
The transmisison duties will be done by a 6-speed manual transmission, and a
manually operated 4WD system will only be available as an option. The all-new
moddel is most likely to debut at Auto Expo 2020.
