In India, the demand for SUVs has risen significantly, leading to more options for buyers. However, not all of these vehicles can truly be called off-roaders. It is when Mahindra Thar emerged as a true adventurer, changing the automotive scene with its capabilities.
The latest addition to the segment is the Maruti Suzuki Jimny. This compact and rugged vehicle promises to be a strong competitor to the Thar, making it a trending product. We understand that enthusiasts are excited to see how it stacks up against the battle-tested veteran and that’s why we are here with a new comparison for you all.
Mahindra Thar
It is a legendary name and while going through the generation transfer, Thar was expected to be better than what it was and guess what? Mahindra sold units of Thar like a cakewalk, making it one of the best sellers for the brand. Not only this the wait time for Thar is still very long.
To begin with, don’t expect it to be a feature-loaded SUV or something that is very calm and composed, maybe related to comfort. Rather, it is something tough and rugged.
Available with three-engine options and both rear and all-wheel drive setup, the new That is for everyone. Here, the first one is a 1.5-litre diesel engine with an overall output rated 116 horsepower. Then, the second one is a 2.2-litre diesel engine churning 130 horsepower and then if someone wants more power and refinement then, there’s a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 150 horses. The torque output from all three of them stands at 300Nm.
Now what else makes the the Thar better than the Jimny is the road presence. In terms of length both the UVs are similar but in terms of width and height, it undercuts the Jimny with a fine margin, just like a proper SUV. Even the ground clearance and water wading capacity of Thar is better making it indestructible.
In terms of features, Mahindra Thar gets a touchscreen infotainment display with roll, pitch, steering angle, compass and G-Monitor offering all the information related to offroading in one go.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny
If someone is looking for a practical, small but tough SUV, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny is made for them. Its capable off-road system and just enough powered petrol engine make it a good companion if someone classifies himself/herself as an adventurer.
Unlike the Thar, the new Jimny is sold with only a single 1.5-litre petrol engine with an overall output rated at 103 horsepower and 134Nm. Looking for convenience? It can be had with both manual and automatic gearboxes.
In terms of features, Jimny stands at par with other Maruti Suzuki cars and SUVs making it a little better place to be at. To be precise, the UV is loaded with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Hill Start/Descent Control, headlamp washers, etc making it a loaded vehicle.
When compared to Mahindra Thar, Jimny does not offer that massive road presence but it remains in a sweet spot. The petrol engine available on the Jimny might sound underpowered but it is actually refined and a good vehicle for everyday driving.
Mahindra Thar Vs Maruti Suzuki Jimny: At A Glance
| Mahindra Thar | Maruti Suzuki Jimny | |
| Length (mm) | 3985 | 3985 |
| Width (mm) | 1855 | 1645 |
| Height (mm) | 1844 | 1720 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2450 | 2590 |
| Ground Clearance (mm) | 226 | 210 |
| Engine | 1.5-litre Diesel
2.2-litre Diesel 2.0-litre Turbo Petrol |
1.5-litre Petrol |
| Power | 116BHP
130BHP 150BHP |
103BHP |
| Torque | 300Nm
300Nm 300Nm |
134Nm |
| Mileage (ARAI) | Upto 15.2kmpl | Upto 16.39kmpl |
| Price (Ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs.10.98 Lakhs to Rs.16.94 Lakhs | Rs.12.74 Lakhs to Rs.15.05 Lakhs |
Conclusion
As we know, both the utility vehicles seen above are masters of their own trade, the ultimate result of which one to buy depends completely on the buyers’ requirements. Someone who wants more road presence and something that is tough can any day head towards Thar but if the requirements are more basic, Jimny perfectly fits as a UV.