The recently unveiled Mahindra Thar Roxx is poised to disrupt the entry-level compact SUV market. Initially thought to be a practical alternative to the iconic three-door Thar, the Thar Roxx is now set to challenge some of the most popular compact SUVs in India. With its attractive pricing and robust off-road capabilities, many prospective buyers are debating whether they should opt for the Mahindra Thar Roxx base variant or stick with the tried-and-true entry-level compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Dimensions and Road Presence
One of the most striking aspects of the Mahindra Thar Roxx is its commanding road presence, thanks to its larger-than-life dimensions. The Thar Roxx measures 4,428 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,923 mm in height. Compared to compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta (4,330 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, and 1,635 mm in height) and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (4,345 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, and 1,645 mm in height), the Thar Roxx is significantly bigger.
This gives the Thar Roxx an imposing presence on the road, making it ideal for SUV enthusiasts who appreciate a lifted and rugged appearance. However, it’s worth noting that its larger size may make it a bit more challenging to maneuver in tight urban spaces compared to the more compact and city-friendly Creta and Grand Vitara.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Mahindra Thar Roxx’s generous exterior dimensions translate into a spacious and comfortable interior. The light-colored interiors give the cabin a more airy and open feel. Taller passengers will appreciate the additional headroom and legroom compared to the Creta and Grand Vitara. The Thar Roxx also offers split seats at the rear with multiple recline angles, enhancing passenger comfort during long journeys.
In comparison, the Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara both feature well-designed, modern interiors, but they fall short in terms of space. While the Creta offers a sleek and ergonomic interior, it lacks the rear-seat comfort and spaciousness of the Thar Roxx. The Grand Vitara, despite being slightly larger than the Creta, still doesn’t match the overall roominess of the Thar Roxx.
Boot Space and Practicality
Boot space is a critical factor for SUV buyers, especially those who frequently travel with lots of luggage. Here, the Mahindra Thar Roxx outshines its competitors with a massive 644 liters of boot space. This is a significant upgrade from the three-door Thar, which had limited cargo space. The Thar Roxx’s boxy design and wide-opening boot make it easy to load and unload luggage, further adding to its practicality.
In contrast, the Hyundai Creta offers 433 liters of boot space, which is decent for a compact SUV but pales in comparison to the Thar Roxx. Meanwhile, the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara offers between 265 liters (strong hybrid) and 373 liters (mild hybrid) of boot space, making it the least practical option in terms of luggage capacity.
Engine Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Mahindra Thar Roxx’s base variant is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-petrol engine that delivers 162 bhp and 330 Nm of torque with a manual transmission. There’s also a 2.2-liter diesel engine variant producing 152 bhp and 330 Nm of torque, paired with a manual gearbox. These engines provide ample power for both city driving and off-roading, giving the Thar Roxx a clear edge over its compact SUV rivals in terms of performance.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Creta’s base variant comes with a 1.5-liter petrol engine that produces 115 bhp. While this engine is smooth and refined, it lacks the raw power and torque offered by the Thar Roxx, making it more suited for city driving and highway cruising. The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara’s base variant is powered by a 1.5-liter petrol mild-hybrid engine producing 101 bhp and 136 Nm of torque. While this setup is adequate for city driving, it doesn’t match the Thar Roxx’s power, especially in more demanding driving conditions.
Features and Technology
In terms of features, the Mahindra Thar Roxx’s base variant is well-equipped, offering a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, push-button start, digital MID, and LED lighting. These features make the Thar Roxx a well-rounded package for an entry-level SUV.
The Hyundai Creta and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara base variants also come with a decent array of features, including automatic climate control (Grand Vitara) and rear parking sensors. However, the Thar Roxx’s base model offers more advanced technology, putting it ahead of its rivals in terms of features.
Conclusion
When deciding between the Mahindra Thar Roxx base variant and an entry-level compact SUV like the Hyundai Creta or Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, your decision should ultimately come down to your personal priorities.
If you prioritize a commanding road presence, off-road capability, spacious interior, and practical boot space, the Mahindra Thar Roxx is the clear winner. It offers a unique blend of ruggedness and modern features, making it an excellent choice for SUV enthusiasts who enjoy adventure and outdoor activities.
However, if you’re looking for a more refined, fuel-efficient, and city-friendly vehicle, the Hyundai Creta or Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara might be more suitable. The Creta offers a balanced mix of performance, comfort, and features, making it ideal for urban buyers. The Grand Vitara, while less powerful, excels in fuel efficiency and provides a comfortable ride, especially for those who prioritize long-distance driving over off-roading.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your lifestyle and driving needs. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged appeal of the Mahindra Thar Roxx or the practicality of a compact SUV, both options offer compelling advantages.
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