When it comes to tough, rugged, and dependable SUVs in India, Mahindra has always been at the forefront. The Mahindra Bolero has long been the go-to choice for rural and semi-urban markets, while the Mahindra Thar has been a cult classic for adventure lovers and off-road enthusiasts. Now, Mahindra has introduced a brand-new SUV – the Thar Roxx – which brings together the rugged charm of the Thar with enhanced efficiency and modern features.
With a claimed mileage of 17 km/l, full engine power, advanced features, and an aggressive design, the Thar Roxx is all set to give the Bolero some serious competition in the Indian market. Let’s take a closer look at this exciting new SUV.
Design: Rugged Meets Modern
The Mahindra Thar Roxx carries forward the iconic bold styling of the Thar but with a modern twist. The muscular wheel arches, aggressive front grille, and sculpted body lines make it stand out on the road.
- Front Profile: The signature Mahindra grille with chrome accents, LED projector headlamps, and integrated DRLs give it a premium yet tough look.
- Side Profile: Chunky alloy wheels, higher ground clearance, and bold body cladding enhance its SUV stance.
- Rear Profile: LED tail lamps and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel remind us of the traditional off-road Thar heritage.
The Thar Roxx looks urban-ready while still retaining the rugged DNA needed for off-roading and rural terrains.
Engine & Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
Mahindra has designed the Thar Roxx to be a balance between performance and mileage. The SUV is expected to come with both petrol and diesel engine options, tuned to deliver robust performance.
- Mileage: A big highlight of the Thar Roxx is its 17 km/l fuel efficiency, which makes it much more practical for daily use compared to other lifestyle SUVs.
- Engine Power: It promises full engine performance with strong torque, making it suitable for both highways and tough rural roads.
- Transmission: Buyers can expect manual and automatic transmission options.
- Drive Modes: Like the Thar, the Roxx is also expected to feature 4×4 capability for adventure lovers, along with a 4×2 version for regular users.
This combination of power and mileage makes the Thar Roxx an attractive proposition for both middle-class buyers and SUV enthusiasts.
Mileage Advantage – A Game Changer
The Thar has always been seen as a powerful off-roader, but not necessarily the most fuel-efficient. With the Thar Roxx offering 17 km/l mileage, Mahindra has addressed one of the biggest concerns for Indian SUV buyers.
This puts it in direct competition with the Bolero, which has been the preferred choice in rural areas because of its low running costs. Now, the Thar Roxx brings that efficiency along with modern style and features.
Interior & Features: Comfort Meets Technology
Step inside the Mahindra Thar Roxx, and you’ll find a premium cabin with advanced features designed for modern buyers.
- Touchscreen Infotainment System with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.
- Digital Instrument Cluster for a futuristic driving experience.
- Premium Upholstery with comfortable seating for 5 passengers.
- Automatic Climate Control for convenience.
- Steering-Mounted Controls for ease of driving.
- USB Ports, Wireless Charging & Connectivity Features for tech-savvy users.
The Thar Roxx’s interior is far more family-friendly compared to the hardcore Thar, making it a versatile SUV for both city commutes and long drives.
Safety: A Top Priority
Mahindra has always focused on building strong, safe SUVs, and the Thar Roxx is no exception. Some expected safety features include:
- Dual airbags, ABS with EBD
- Hill-start assist and hill-descent control
- Rear parking sensors with camera
- Strong body frame with high crash resistance
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
With safety norms becoming stricter in India, Mahindra is ensuring that the Roxx not only performs well but also protects its passengers.
Thar Roxx vs Bolero – A Head-to-Head Battle
The Bolero has been one of Mahindra’s best-selling SUVs for decades, especially in rural areas. The Thar Roxx, however, is designed to directly challenge the Bolero’s dominance.
- Mileage: Both SUVs now boast high efficiency, with the Thar Roxx offering 17 km/l.
- Performance: The Roxx edges ahead with more powerful engines.
- Design: The Bolero sticks to a simple, utilitarian look, while the Roxx appeals with a stylish, rugged-modern design.
- Features: The Roxx wins here with its advanced infotainment system, digital cluster, and premium interior.
- Market Position: The Bolero remains a rural king, but the Thar Roxx could capture both rural and urban buyers.
Who Should Buy the Thar Roxx?
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is a versatile SUV that caters to a wide audience:
- Middle-class families looking for mileage + style + space.
- Young professionals who want an SUV that stands out on city roads.
- Adventure enthusiasts who love off-road capability but also want daily usability.
- Rural buyers who previously leaned towards Bolero but now want modern features with efficiency.
Final Thoughts
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is not just another SUV—it’s a smart move by Mahindra to merge Bolero-like efficiency with Thar-like ruggedness. With its 17 km/l mileage, full engine power, bold design, and premium features, it is perfectly positioned to become a bestseller in both rural and urban markets.
By challenging the Bolero directly, Mahindra has created a product that could bridge the gap between lifestyle SUVs and practical family cars. The Roxx is a game-changer in the under-₹15 lakh SUV market and is likely to become one of the most talked-about launches of 2025.
About the Author
