Is the Mahindra Thar Practical As A Family Car In India?

The Mahindra Thar is something that has been on the adoration list of off-roaders. But in the last few years, car buyers have considered it from a different angle – can it also be a solid family car?

With its redesigned looks, more comfort and better safety tech, the Thar now feels even more versatile. But day-to-day practicality for family use is more than just performance and the rugged looks – it’s about space, ease of operation, safety and comfort during everyday use.

Comfort and Convenience Features

The new Mahindra Thar has focused on making its cabin family-friendly without losing what made it a popular name. With the inclusion of comfort features, it is now easier to think of the Thar as a family car meant for daily city driving. The seat upholstery is designed for better comfort and durability. Also, tilt-adjustable steering wheels offer relaxed driving positions. There’s cruise control for effortless long highway journeys.

The steering-mounted audio and phone controls offer hands-free convenience. The manual day-night IRVM reduces glare while night driving. The tip and slide mechanism on the co-driver seat is there for easy rear-seat access. Also, the reclining mechanism and adjustable headrests provide added comfort. Other notable features include –

• 50:50 split in the rear seat to manage passengers and luggage flexibly
• Height-adjustable driver seat for better visibility and ergonomics
• Centre roof lamp for better cabin illumination
• 12V accessory socket to charge devices on the go
• A utility hook on the co-driver seat backrest for carrying small bags
• Central locking and remote keyless entry for convenience
• Rear demister for clear rear visibility during foggy conditions
• Dashboard grab handle for front passenger support
• Bottle holders in front doors for easy storage
• Illuminated key ring for convenience in dark settings

Exterior and Practical Touches

The car comes with LED tail lamps for better visibility and style. You also get front fog lamps for safe driving in poor weather conditions.

• Wheel arch cladding for rugged protection
• Side foot steps for easy entry and exit, especially for children or elderly passengers
• Fender-mounted radio antenna for clear reception
• Tailgate-mounted spare wheel ensures more boot flexibility

Infotainment and Technology

The SUV features HVAC with electrically operated controls for effortless climate management. Then, there’s a 17.8 cm touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.

• 4 speakers + 2 tweeters for a surround sound experience
• MID display in the instrument cluster for driver information
• Adventure statistics display for off-road enthusiasts
• TyreTronics (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) and Tyre Direction Monitoring System for safety
• BlueSense app connectivity for smart vehicle management
• Follow-me-home & lead-me-to-Thar lamps for convenience
• One-touch lane change indicator for hassle-free driving
• Voice commands and SMS read-out for hands-free operation
• Rear parking sensors to simplify parking in tight spaces
• Electrically adjustable ORVMs for better visibility
• Power windows in front doors for everyday comfort

Off-Road Features That Double Up

To facilitate off-roading, the car offers an electric driveline disconnect on the front axle in 4WD variants and an electronic brake locking differential for RWD.

• Advanced electronic brake locking differential for 4WD
• Mechanical locking differential for maximum traction
• Washable floor with drain plugs – easy cleaning after trips
• Welded tow hooks in front & rear for emergencies
• Tow hitch protection for added safety

Engine Options and Performance

Families that love driving variety have multiple engine options to choose from.

• Diesel engines:
  • D117 CRDe 1497cc, 87.2 hp @ 3500 rpm, 300 Nm torque
  • mHawk 130 CRDe 2184cc, 97 hp @ 3750 rpm, 300 Nm torque
• Petrol engine:
  • mStallion 150 TGDi 1997cc, 112 hp @ 5000 rpm, 320 Nm torque with AT
• Fuel tank capacity: D117 CRDe – 45L; mHawk 130 CRDe – 57L; mStallion 150 TGDi – 57L
• Ground clearance: 226 mm
• Approach angle: 41.2° | Departure angle: 36°
• Water wading depth: 650 mm

Safety Features for Family Confidence

Safety is taken care of with essential features like dual front airbags and ABS with EBD & brake assist. You also get ESP with rollover mitigation. The other features include –

• Hill hold & hill descent control
• ISOFIX child seat mounts in rear seats
• Built-in roll cage for extra rigidity
• 3-point seat belts for all passengers
• Snow chain provision for tyres
• Speed-sensing front door locks
• Panic braking signal
• Vehicle overspeed warning
• Passenger airbag deactivation switch

The SUV is equipped with roof speakers and a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission for effortless gear changes. All-terrain tyres (255/65 R18) guarantee traction in varied road conditions.

Conclusion

So, is the Mahindra Thar a practical family car in India? The answer lies in what a family wants. If urban commutes or highway runs with generous luggage space make the cut, then the Thar can feel a bit too tight, given its 4-seater cabin and cramped rear seat.

However, if your family is adventurous, likes to whisk off to places on weekends, and prioritises safety and rugged reliability, then the Thar ticks most boxes.

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