The Mahindra Thar Roxx, the much-anticipated 5-door variant of the iconic Thar, has finally hit the roads, starting at an introductory price of Rs 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India). While the Thar Roxx retains the rugged appeal of its 3-door predecessor, it introduces a host of new features and design elements, making it a standout in the off-roading community. The journey from initial design sketches to the final production model has been nothing short of remarkable. Let’s dive into how Mahindra’s design vision for the Thar Roxx evolved and what makes this SUV a true game-changer.
Exterior Design: A Blend of Bold and Practical
At first glance, the Mahindra Thar Roxx impresses with its robust front grille and C-shaped LED DRLs, both of which were carried over from the original sketches. However, some design elements evolved during the transition to production. The sleek headlight strips envisioned in the sketches gave way to more conventional LED projector headlamps, enhancing practicality without compromising on style.
The side profile stays true to the sketches, with door designs, handles, and alloy wheels matching the early concepts. However, the production model opts for 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels instead of the larger, more exaggerated ones depicted in the sketches. This choice strikes a balance between style and functionality, ensuring the Thar Roxx is as capable off-road as it is striking on the streets.
Interior: Where Vision Meets Reality
Inside the Thar Roxx, Mahindra has stayed remarkably close to its original vision. The dashboard layout, digital displays, and even the steering wheel mirror the sketches almost perfectly. The minor changes, such as the color of the grab handles and door handles, which shifted from white to black and chrome respectively, only add to the SUV’s premium feel.
The seating also remains true to the design sketches, with the same “Thar” embossing on the front seats. The top-spec variants feature white leatherette seats, offering a touch of luxury in this rugged off-roader.
Under the Hood: Power and Performance
The Thar Roxx is available with both 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, offering a range of power outputs to suit different driving needs. The 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions provide smooth and responsive shifts, ensuring that the Thar Roxx performs as well on highways as it does on challenging terrains. Unlike the 3-door variant, which offers 4WD across all engines, the Thar Roxx restricts 4WD to its diesel variants, a move likely influenced by market demand and practical considerations.
Features and Technology: A Modern Off-Roader
Mahindra has equipped the Thar Roxx with a suite of modern features, making it a leader in the off-road SUV segment. The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon sound system, and wireless phone charger are just a few of the standout features that elevate the Thar Roxx above its competitors. Safety has also been prioritized, with six airbags, a 360-degree camera, and Level-2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) ensuring that drivers and passengers are protected on every journey.
The Thar Roxx Legacy Continues
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is more than just an extended version of its 3-door predecessor; it’s a testament to Mahindra’s commitment to innovation and design excellence. The journey from sketch to reality has produced a vehicle that stays true to its rugged roots while embracing modern technology and design principles. Whether you’re an off-roading enthusiast or simply looking for a stylish and capable SUV, the Thar Roxx promises to deliver an unparalleled driving experience.
As Mahindra prepares to release the 4WD variants and potentially introduce more features, the Thar Roxx is set to solidify its place as a legend in the making.
