Mahindra Thar.e concept realised as ICE off-roader

Mahindra is readying a rugged-looking off-roader that could shake up the value end of the off-road market.

But the brand has ruled out the Jeep Wrangler-inspired Thar and five-door Thar Roxx, pointing to challenges with supply due to booming domestic demand that has people queuing to own them.

Instead, it’s a yet-to-be-revealed new four-wheel drive that is locked in for an Australian launch as the Indian car maker looks to leverage momentum towards its new breed of SUVs.

The new 4x4 is essentially a production version of the Thar.e concept and is expected to borrow that car’s boxy styling that has retro-infused hints of Jeep Wrangler, Hummer, Toyota FJ Cruiser and Ford Bronco.

In referencing the Thar.e, Mahindra’s head of international operations, Sachin Arolkar, says the car will be “very, very similar to this – very similar”.

With any luck that will include the bold proportions, prominent angled wheel arches, exposed door hinges and off-road detailing.

“There are certain products that are being developed that will allow us to occupy the space,” said Arolkar. “We are working on new products. Those will be definitely for Australia also.”

The Thar.e concept was an EV, but Arolkar says the production version will be fitted with an internal combustion engine (ICE).

“As a concept, we had unveiled … an e-Thar in South Africa. But we will be having our regular ICE on that … and that will be launched in Australia.”

Arolkar and Mahindra’s President of Automotive Technology & Product Development, Velusamy R, also hinted it will get a hybrid system.

The Indian automotive giant says it is currently developing electrified technologies in tandem, including regular hybrids, plug-in hybrids and range-extender hybrids.

Executives say it won’t have all three but strongly hinted at least one of those drivetrain technologies was coming.

“You are getting hot,” was Velusamy R’s answer when he was quizzed about a hybrid alternative.

He also suggested the architecture and drivetrains could utilise different top-hats – essentially different bodies – that broaden the market appeal. A ute of some form seems a logical option given Mahindra’s heritage.

But rather than a ladder-frame architecture underpinning it, the Thar.e – it will wear a different name in showrooms – will ride on a car-like monocoque construction.

That means it likely won’t have the rock-hopping ability of the Scorpio SUV – and many other off-roaders.

However, Mahindra executives suggested such a car would be more capable than most.

When repeatedly asked about the underpinnings, he pushed back by referring to other monocoque SUVs with good off-road capability; various Land Rovers (including the Defender) fall into that category, as does the recently discontinued Mitsubishi Pajero.

Whatever the construction, expect sharp pricing in line with Mahindra’s brand positioning.

The value-focused newcomer is likely to play at a more affordable price point and potentially provide some competition for the Suzuki Jimny that has an enduring appeal and buyers queuing to own it.

The new Mahindra off-roader could also provide a counterbalance to the imminent influx of Chinese four-wheel drives that are sizing up an off-road market dominated by the likes of the Toyota Prado and Ford Everest.

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