Mahindra declared that it would be launching nine new products by 2026, and the 5-door Thar will be one amongst them. For now, the timeline fixed for the Mahindra Thar 5-door is within 2023 and 2026.
Mahindra and Mahindra have eventually confirmed that it will launch the 5-door variant of the new-generation Thar in India. While there were continuous indications of the extended version being in the works, the company had never more officially validated it, that is, until now. During an online media briefing to announce the company’s fourth-quarter results for FY2021, Mahindra announced that it would be launching nine new products by 2026, and the 5-door Thar will be one amongst them.
While the specific timeline is yet to be announced, the company has verified that the new Mahindra Thar 5-Door model will hit sometime between 2023 and 2026. First models to be launched throughout that time frame. It also includes the new-gen Mahindra Bolero, a couple of battery EVs based on the Born EV platform, new-gen XUV300, and two most cultured models codenamed – W620 and V201.
Next Generation Mahindra Thar was launched in October 2020, and it became an instantaneous success. The new-gen model, which has earned a 4-star safety evaluation from the Global NCAP, also comes with a host of advanced creature comforts that have uncovered it to a wide array of consumers. Features like LED DRLs, alloy wheels, forward-facing rear seats, auto climate control, touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and good quality interior attracted many non-enthusiast customers. However, what was missing from the equation was a proper, extended wheelbase 5-door version that could make it accessible to family buyers. It was something that even the enthusiasts required, and Mahindra finally heard their appeal.
While it’s too early to comment on what the SUV will offer, we largely expect the styling to continue similarly. Mahindra might propose some additional features like LED projector headlamps and possibly even a fixed metal hard roof. The cabin is expected to get broader and comfier second-row seats and perhaps even bigger boot space.
Mechanically we expect the SUV to share its engine options with the existing 3-door Thar. It involves – 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol and a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine. Both motors are paired with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 6-speed automatic transmission in the current Thar, while 4×4 is standard over all trims.