Mahindra Thar Roxx: Engine Details, Off-Road Tech, and More Revealed

Mahindra is gearing up to launch the much-anticipated Thar Roxx, a thrilling addition to the Thar lineup after making its worldwide debut on Independence Day throughout the world. This new model is a newly redesigned car with a unique platform, cutting-edge off-road capabilities, and a range of power outputs. It is not merely an expanded version of the well-known Thar 3-door. The Thar Roxx, with its array of improvements catering to both off-road aficionados and regular drivers, looks to be one of the most important automotive releases of 2024.

New Platform and Build

The Mahindra Thar Roxx is built on an upgraded 4G platform, derived from the 3G platform introduced with the Scorpio N in 2022. This new platform is 40 kg lighter than its predecessor, making the Roxx more agile and efficient. The vehicle features an all-metal body shell, including a robust metal hard top, which adds to its durability and off-road capabilities. High-strength steel has been used extensively in critical areas such as the pillars, ensuring the vehicle can withstand tough terrains.

The suspension system in the Thar Roxx has also been upgraded. It includes an independent front setup with double wishbones and a multilink rear setup with Watts linkage, similar to what is found in the Scorpio N. Additionally, Mahindra has incorporated its ‘Frequency Dependent Damping’ technology, which is designed to improve ride comfort, especially on rough roads.

Powerful Engine Options

The Mahindra Thar Roxx will be available with both diesel and petrol engines, offering a range of power outputs to suit different driving needs. The diesel variant will feature Mahindra’s mHawk Gen2 engine, a 2.2-litre powerhouse that will deliver either 150hp and 350Nm of torque for the entry-level model or 172hp and 370Nm of torque for the higher-end version. These figures indicate a slight upgrade over the Scorpio N’s diesel engine, which offers 132hp and 171hp.

For those who prefer petrol, the Thar Roxx will be equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, similar to the one used in the Scorpio N and XUV700. The petrol variant will also come in two power configurations: 160hp and 330Nm for the base model, and 175hp and 380Nm for the higher variants. The Scorpio N’s petrol engine, by comparison, delivers 203hp, making the Thar Roxx slightly less powerful but still highly capable.

Both diesel and petrol engines will be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, providing drivers with flexibility and control.

Advanced Off-Road Technology

The Thar Roxx is designed with serious off-road enthusiasts in mind. It will come equipped with Mahindra’s 4Xplor off-road system, which includes an electronic brake locking differential (E-BLD) and an electronic locking differential (ELD). These features help the vehicle maintain traction on challenging surfaces, such as snow, sand, and mud. Unlike the Thar 3-door, which has a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system, the Thar Roxx will use a traditional lever to switch between 2H, 4H, and 4L modes.

One of the standout features of the Thar Roxx is the Crawl Smart Assist (CSA) technology, available in the automatic variant. This feature allows the driver to set a specific speed between 2.5kph and 30kph when driving off-road, enabling the vehicle to navigate the terrain at that speed without further input. This makes tackling tough terrains much easier and safer.

Another unique feature making its debut in the Thar Roxx is the Intelli Turn Assist. This feature is designed to improve the vehicle’s maneuverability at low speeds. When activated, it locks the rear inner wheel based on the steering direction, allowing for a tighter turning radius. This is particularly useful in off-road situations where precise control is needed. However, it can only be activated for 15 seconds at a time and requires the electronic locking differential to be disengaged first.

Impressive Off-Road Capabilities

The Thar Roxx’s off-road credentials are further enhanced by its impressive approach, ramp-over, and departure angles. The vehicle has an approach angle of 41.3 degrees, a ramp-over angle of 23.6 degrees, and a departure angle of 36.1 degrees. Additionally, it can wade through water up to 650mm deep. These specifications make it slightly more capable compared to the Thar 3-door, which has an approach angle of 41.2 degrees, a ramp-over angle of 26.2 degrees, and a similar water-wading depth.

Variety of Variants and Features

Mahindra plans to offer the Thar Roxx in more than six variants, each tailored to different customer needs. The lineup will start with the W3 variant, which is expected to be a 2WD model. Mid-spec variants will likely introduce 4WD options, making the Thar Roxx more accessible to a broader range of buyers. All versions of the Thar Roxx will be 5-seaters, with even the entry-level models being well-equipped.

In terms of features, the Thar Roxx is set to include a metal hard top as standard across all variants. Mid-level variants will come with a single-pane sunroof, while higher-end models will boast a panoramic sunroof. Other expected features include dual digital screens, LED lighting, and additional comfort enhancements that set it apart from the Thar 3-door.

Launch Timeline and Expectations

Mahindra will begin accepting bookings for the Thar Roxx around Independence Day, with the official price announcement expected a few weeks later. As one of the most anticipated vehicle launches of the year, the Thar Roxx is expected to attract significant interest from both off-road enthusiasts and regular drivers looking for a rugged, feature-packed SUV.

To sum up, The Mahindra Thar Roxx is poised to make a significant impact in the SUV market with its advanced features, powerful engine options, and off-road capabilities. Whether you're an off-road enthusiast or someone seeking a versatile and robust vehicle, the Thar Roxx offers something for everyone. With its imminent launch, it’s set to be a game-changer in the automotive world, building on Mahindra’s legacy of producing rugged and reliable vehicles.