Thar Roxx : In a move that has sent ripples through the automotive world, Mahindra has unveiled its latest offering – the Thar Roxx.
This new variant of the iconic Thar lineup is set to revolutionize the off-road vehicle segment with its blend of rugged capability and luxurious comfort.
The Thar Roxx, with its 5-door configuration and opulent interior, marks a significant departure from its utilitarian roots, aiming to capture the hearts of adventure enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on comfort.
Thar Roxx A Bold New Direction
The Thar has long been synonymous with off-road prowess and no-frills adventure. However, with the Roxx, Mahindra is boldly stepping into new territory.
This isn’t just an extension of the Thar line; it’s a reimagining of what an off-road vehicle can be in the modern era.
Exterior Design: Rugged Elegance
At first glance, the Thar Roxx retains the unmistakable silhouette of its predecessor. The boxy shape, circular headlamps, and vertical slat grille all pay homage to the Thar’s heritage.
However, a closer look reveals a host of refinements that elevate the Roxx above its rugged siblings:
Extended Wheelbase: To accommodate the additional doors, the Roxx features a longer wheelbase, giving it a more substantial presence on the road.
Refined Body Lines: While still boxy, the body panels feature subtle contours that improve aerodynamics without sacrificing the classic Thar look.
Premium Lighting: LED headlamps and taillights not only provide superior illumination but also add a touch of sophistication to the vehicle’s appearance.
Alloy Wheels: The Roxx comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, featuring a unique design that balances off-road capability with urban style.
Panoramic Sunroof: A first for the Thar line, the Roxx features a large panoramic sunroof, bringing the outdoors in even when the doors are closed.
The 5-Door Revolution
The addition of rear doors is more than just a convenience feature; it’s a game-changer for the Thar lineup.
This configuration opens up the Thar to a whole new segment of buyers – families and groups who want the Thar experience without sacrificing accessibility.
The rear doors are full-sized, allowing easy ingress and egress for passengers. They feature the same robust construction as the front doors, ensuring that off-road capability isn’t compromised.
When all doors are shut, the Roxx maintains a seamless side profile, with clever design elements masking the additional cut lines.
Thar Roxx Interior: Where Luxury Meets Adventure
Step inside the Thar Roxx, and you’re greeted by an interior that could easily belong in a high-end luxury SUV. Mahindra has pulled out all the stops to create a cabin that’s as comfortable as it is functional.
Seating and Space
The 5-door configuration allows for a proper second row of seats, comfortably accommodating three adults. The seats themselves are a masterclass in ergonomic design:
Premium Leather Upholstery: Soft, supple leather covers all seating surfaces, available in multiple color options.
Climate-Controlled Seats: Both front and rear seats feature heating and ventilation, a first for this segment.
Memory Function: The driver’s seat comes with a memory function, storing preferred positions for multiple drivers.
Dashboard and Controls
The dashboard of the Thar Roxx is a blend of rugged functionality and modern luxury:
12.3-inch Touchscreen: A large, high-resolution touchscreen dominates the center console, providing access to infotainment and vehicle settings.
Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital instrument cluster offers customizable displays, including off-road specific information.
Premium Materials: Soft-touch materials, brushed aluminum accents, and real wood inlays create an upscale ambiance.
Luxury Features
The Thar Roxx comes loaded with features typically found in luxury vehicles:
Dual-Zone Climate Control: Allows front and rear passengers to set their preferred temperatures.
Premium Sound System: A 12-speaker sound system by Harman Kardon delivers concert-quality audio.
Ambient Lighting: Customizable ambient lighting sets the mood for any journey.
Wireless Charging: Multiple wireless charging pads cater to all passengers’ devices.
Rear Entertainment System: Rear-seat passengers can enjoy content on individual screens mounted on the front seatbacks.
Thar Roxx Performance: Capability Meets Refinement
While the Thar Roxx pampers its occupants with luxury, it doesn’t forget its off-road heritage. Under the hood, it packs serious performance credentials:
Powertrain Options
2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol:
Power: 150 bhp
Torque: 320 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
2.2L mHawk Diesel:
Power: 130 bhp
Torque: 300 Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
Both engines are mated to a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case, ensuring the Roxx can tackle any terrain.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Thar Roxx doesn’t just look the part; it’s a serious off-roader:
Selectable 4WD Modes: 2H, 4H, and 4L modes for various driving conditions.
Locking Differentials: Front and rear locking differentials for extreme off-road situations.
Advanced Terrain Response System: Optimizes vehicle settings for different terrains like sand, mud, and rocks.
Impressive Approach and Departure Angles: Despite the longer wheelbase, the Roxx maintains excellent approach and departure angles.
Water Wading Capacity: Capable of fording water up to 650mm deep.
On-Road Comfort
Recognizing that most Roxx owners will spend significant time on paved roads, Mahindra has made substantial improvements to on-road behavior:
Adaptive Suspension: Automatically adjusts damping for different road conditions.
Noise Insulation: Extensive use of sound-deadening materials for a quiet cabin.
Improved Aerodynamics: Refined body shape reduces wind noise at highway speeds.
Technology: Staying Connected in the Wilderness
The Thar Roxx comes equipped with Mahindra’s latest AdrenoX connected car technology:
Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
Off-Road Navigation: Specialized off-road maps and trail guides built into the navigation system.
Over-the-Air Updates: Regular software updates to improve vehicle performance and add new features.
Remote Vehicle Control: Start the engine, set climate control, and more from your smartphone.
Adventure Telemetry: Record and share your off-road adventures with detailed telemetry data.
Safety: Protecting Adventures
Safety is paramount in the Thar Roxx, with a host of features ensuring peace of mind:
6 Airbags: Standard across all variants.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control.
360-Degree Camera System: For easy maneuvering in tight spots, both on and off-road.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Crucial for maintaining optimal tire pressure in varying terrains.
Roll Cage: An integrated roll cage provides additional protection in case of a rollover.
Thar Roxx Market Positioning and Pricing
The Thar Roxx enters a unique space in the Indian automotive market. It’s positioned above the standard Thar but below luxury SUVs like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.
This positioning allows it to appeal to both hardcore off-road enthusiasts and urban dwellers looking for a vehicle with character.
Pricing is expected to start at ₹18 lakhs for the base petrol variant, going up to ₹25 lakhs for the top-end diesel automatic (ex-showroom prices).
While this represents a significant premium over the standard Thar, Mahindra believes the added luxury and practicality justify the price tag.
Production and Availability
Mahindra plans to manufacture the Thar Roxx at its state-of-the-art facility in Chakan, Maharashtra. Initial production capacity is set at 4,000 units per month, with the flexibility to scale up based on demand.
The company has announced that bookings will open next month, with deliveries expected to commence in the following quarter.
Given the anticipated high demand, Mahindra is implementing a transparent booking and allocation system to ensure fair distribution of vehicles.
The Road Ahead: Future Plans
The launch of the Thar Roxx is just the beginning of Mahindra’s plans for the Thar lineup. The company has hinted at future developments, including:
Electrification: An all-electric version of the Thar is in development, promising zero-emission off-roading.
Performance Variant: A high-performance version, possibly wearing the “Scorpio N” badge, is rumored to be in the works.
Global Expansion: With its blend of luxury and capability, Mahindra sees potential for the Thar Roxx in international markets.
Thar Roxx Conclusion: A New Era for Indian Off-Roaders
The Mahindra Thar Roxx represents a bold new direction for the Indian automotive industry. It challenges the notion that off-road vehicles must be spartan and uncomfortable, proving that luxury and capability can coexist harmoniously.
By introducing a 5-door variant with a luxurious interior, Mahindra has expanded the appeal of the Thar beyond hardcore enthusiasts to include families and urban adventurers.
The Roxx offers the promise of weekend getaways and epic road trips, all while providing the comfort and technology expected in a modern vehicle.
As it prepares to hit Indian roads, the Thar Roxx stands as a testament to Mahindra’s engineering prowess and its understanding of evolving consumer preferences.
It’s not just a new model; it’s a statement of intent from an Indian manufacturer ready to take on global competitors in the premium off-road segment.
Whether crawling over rocks in the Himalayas or cruising down Marine Drive in Mumbai, the Thar Roxx promises to turn heads and spark conversations.
It’s a vehicle that says, “Adventure awaits, and we’ll get there in style.” As bookings open and the first units roll off the production line, one thing is clear: the Mahindra Thar Roxx is set to redefine what Indian consumers expect from their off-road vehicles.