Mahindra Thar’s new OG variant has been launched at Rs 10.32 lakh, boasting of a larger platform, more powerful engines and better suspension, along with an array of features.

Before you book your call to the nearest Mahindra dealer, here are 5 key pointers that all prospective Thar OG owners should consider.

1. It’s on a brand new platform, making it a very different proposition

While the previous Thar used a ladder frame, the OG is built on the M-Glyde 4G platform (shared with the Thar Roxx). This enables a number of benefits:

Higher body stiffness for improved crash safety and on-road handling

Wider track and slightly longer wheelbase for confidence at high speeds

New Pentalink rear suspension with Watts Link and DAVINCI dampers (on ZXT) for improved driving dynamics

Electric Power Steering (EPS) instead of hydraulic for better low-speed manoeuvrability.

In practical terms, the OG drives more like a modern SUV on the road, while retaining the characteristics of a classic Thar on the trails. If you were put off by the old Thar’s heavy steering and generally coarse ride quality, the OG is an improvement in both areas.

2. More powerful engines, but you’ll have to pay extra for 4WD

The Thar OG is available in 3 engines, but not all have 4WD and not all transmissions are available across variants. Here’s a snapshot of the powertrains:

1.5L D117 diesel: 117 bhp, 300 Nm – RWD, 6MT

2.0L mStallion turbo-petrol: 162 bhp, 330 Nm – 2WD and 4WD, 6MT/6AT

2.2L mHawk diesel: 152 bhp, 330 Nm – 2WD and 4WD, 6MT/6AT

The entry-level AXT 1.5D is rear-wheel drive only, making it ideal for city use and light off-roading, but unsuitable for serious cross-country touring. 4WD is only available with the mid and top trims (LXT and ZXT) and the bigger engines. The 2.2D 4WD AT is undoubtedly the most capable engine-trim combination available, but also the priciest (up to Rs 18.99 lakh).

If you’re a serious adventurer who needs a capable 4×4, you’ll have to pay extra for either the LXT 2.0T 4WD or the 2.2D 4WD, as the base diesel doesn’t have 4WD capability.

3. Better safety features, but 6-airbag variants are not available

Mahindra now offers up to 6-airbags on the Thar OG, including the 4-point HPTS (Head-Pelvis-Thorax-Shoulder) side-impact airbags for the rear passengers, as compared to the basic 2-airbag variants on the outgoing model. However:

6-airbags are only available on the top ZXT variant

Lower trims (AXT, LXT) have fewer airbags (typically 2-4 per trim)

All-wheel disc brakes, front parking sensors and ESP suite are standard equipment, but advanced safety features like the 6-airbags are trim-specific.

If safety is a priority (especially for families), it might be worth considering the ZXT variant or finding out the exact number of airbags on other trims.

Read this- Mahindra Thar OG vs Scorpio-N: Who Wins the 3-Door vs 5-Door Lifestyle SUV Battle in 2026?

4. Practicality restraints of a 3-door design

The Thar OG retains the 3-door, 4-seater layout of the previous model. This creates some inherent compromises:

Access to the rear seats is challenging unless the front seats are folded, which is inconvenient for elderly passengers

Boot space behind the rear seats is limited (especially with a CNG-mounted cylinder, if/when the variant becomes available)

Rear seats are best-suited for short-haul travel and/or children, with little legroom for adults on prolonged journeys.

If you need a family-friendly, versatile 4-seater for daily commuting, the Scorpio-N or a comparable 5-door rival might be a better value proposition. The Thar OG is better suited as a second vehicle for weekend adventures or as a lifestyle-oriented 4×4.

5. Consider waiting and/or choosing the right variant for you

Given the Thar’s cult following and the attractive introductory pricing (valid till November 30, 2026), there’s likely to be a wait of several months for popular 4WD variants. Here are some pointers:

The variants are divided into 3 trims (AXT, LXT, ZXT), 3 engines and multiple drivetrain/transmission options. It can get confusing trying to decide on the right combination of trim, engine, transmission and drivetrain, especially considering budget constraints.

The 2.0T petrol and 2.2D diesel engines are thirstier and offer fewer thrills than the 1.5D on an everyday city run; it’s worth factoring in the additional fuel costs if you plan to cover many kilometers.

If you’re unsure about the right combination of powertrain, trim and features, it might be worth taking a couple of variants for a test drive. Try different engines (1.5D vs 2.0T) and drivetrains (RWD vs 4WD) to narrow down your preferences. The differences in comfort, drivability and capability are significant.

The Mahindra Thar OG is a refined, safer and more capable version of the legendary Thar, but it doesn’t tick all boxes.

It is a fantastic value proposition for buyers who want a rugged, capable 4×4 with the comfort and tech features of a modern SUV.

It is a less compelling proposition for buyers who want a spacious, versatile and family-friendly daily driver.

Ask yourself these questions before making your purchase:

Will you actually need 4WD?

Will you actually use all 4 seats and the boot space?

Is 6-airbag safety a priority for you?

Are you prepared for a waiting period?

Are you prepared to pay more for a bigger engined, thirstier car?

Answer these honestly and you’ll know which Thar OG variant is for you.

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