New-gen Mahindra Thar spotted on test

Is it the Jeep Wrangler? No wait, it's the new Mahindra Thar! This test mule was spotted on test near Coimbatore previewing the new-gen Thar's exterior appearance and a few more details.

As the pictures suggest, the upcoming Thar will be bigger in terms of the overall dimensions. No wonder it resembles the Wrangler with the seven-slat grille, circular headlamps, huge fenders and flared wheel arches. Still, the original CJ-5's styling cues can be seen despite the changes being in line to comply with the upcoming safety and emission standards. 

Another test mule was seen taking rounds and a close look at it suggested there will be two versions of the Thar - soft and hard top. The latter sports a mounted spare wheel, but a full-sized tailgate with a larger rear windshield. This one should also feature the new touch screen infotainment system along with the tweaked interior layout and new dashboard.

Mechanically, the Mahindra Thar is expected to get the 4x4 set-up with low-range gearbox and a locking rear differential. However, the biggest change will come in the form of the BS-VI compliant engine post these norms kick-in. The new-gen Thar will then come powered by this new version of the 2.2-litre mHawk engine.

Mahindra hasn't confirmed this yet, but we can also expect the 2020 Mahindra Thar to be underpinned by a brand-new platform. This will be reinforced to meet the upcoming crash test and safety norms. This also means the SUV might be equipped with new safety features including dual airbags, a seatbelt reminder, high-speed alerts, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and so on. We hope this new Thar makes its first public appearance at the Auto Expo in Delhi next year.