The Mahindra Thar has long been a symbol of rugged freedom in India. For decades, it carried the image of the wild explorer, the one who chose dusty trails over city streets. Now, Mahindra is preparing to introduce something bigger both literally and conceptually. The upcoming Mahindra Thar ROXX, a five-door evolution of the popular off-roader, marks a bold new direction.
This version doesn’t just stretch the Thar’s wheelbase. It expands its appeal. The move signals a deeper shift in India’s automotive culture — where adventure styling is merging with everyday practicality.
A New Chapter for the Thar
The classic Thar was built for those who dared to go beyond the road. It was compact, powerful, and unapologetically raw. However, it also came with compromises. Two doors limited accessibility. The small boot restricted utility. Families often found it too niche.
The Thar ROXX is Mahindra’s answer to all these limitations. With five doors and a longer wheelbase, it transforms into a more usable daily SUV without losing its soul. Moreover, it still carries the same DNA that made the Thar iconic — but with added comfort, practicality, and a more premium design philosophy.
This move is not just about design. It’s about purpose. Mahindra understands that modern consumers want more than off-road capability. They want adventure blended with convenience, and that’s exactly what the Thar ROXX promises to deliver.
The Evolution of an Icon
When the original Thar re-launched in 2020, it sparked a new love for lifestyle SUVs. The combination of retro styling and modern equipment turned it into a cultural phenomenon. City dwellers bought it not only for off-roading but also for its commanding presence and aspirational charm.
Now, the Thar ROXX aims to build on that success. Its longer body and larger wheelbase improve ride quality and cabin space. Therefore, it’s expected to be more family-friendly. The extra doors make it easier for rear passengers to get in and out, solving one of the biggest issues of the current Thar.
Moreover, Mahindra’s design team has reportedly given the SUV a more balanced stance. It retains the boxy silhouette and wide fenders but looks more mature and road-ready. As a result, the Thar ROXX bridges the gap between ruggedness and sophistication.
Bigger Dimensions, Broader Appeal
The move to a five-door layout is not just about size; it’s about expanding reach. Previously, the Thar was primarily aimed at off-road enthusiasts. But the ROXX version opens the door to a wider audience — urban buyers, young professionals, and families who want both adventure and comfort.
Also, the extended wheelbase enhances stability, especially on highways. That’s crucial for those who plan longer trips or use their SUV daily. In fact, the additional space allows Mahindra to offer better rear-seat legroom and a larger boot, something the three-door version lacked.
Therefore, the Thar ROXX isn’t just a facelift. It’s a structural transformation designed to make the Thar more versatile without diluting its character.
Engine and Powertrain Expectations
Although Mahindra hasn’t officially revealed the specifications, expectations are high. The Thar ROXX will likely share its engine options with the existing Thar — a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. However, these engines may get refined tuning to match the SUV’s larger body and heavier frame.
Transmission options are expected to include both manual and automatic gearboxes, catering to different driving styles. Additionally, 4WD variants will likely continue to play a major role, ensuring that the Thar’s off-road prowess remains untouched.
Moreover, Mahindra might introduce 2WD variants to attract city-focused buyers. This approach would lower the entry price and make the SUV more accessible, similar to what we’ve seen with the current Thar lineup.
Design Language — Rugged Yet Refined
Visually, the Thar ROXX is expected to stay true to the brand’s off-road heritage. The boxy frame, round headlamps, and upright stance will remain. However, the proportions will look more balanced.
The front fascia may receive a mild refresh with a new grille and redesigned bumpers. The side profile will be dominated by the extended doors, while the rear could feature modern LED taillights and a slightly more urban tailgate design.
Inside, Mahindra is likely to focus on comfort and connectivity. Expect a larger infotainment screen, improved materials, and more storage options. Therefore, while it remains a tough SUV at heart, it will also feel premium and comfortable for city driving.
Adventure Becomes a Lifestyle
The most interesting part of the Thar ROXX story lies beyond its physical features. It reflects a broader cultural shift in India’s automotive market. Adventure, once a niche passion, is now entering the mainstream.
SUVs like the Thar have made off-road aesthetics desirable even among urban consumers. Big tyres, high ground clearance, roof racks, and rugged styling have become aspirational symbols of independence. People want a vehicle that can handle weekend trails but also look good outside a café.
As a result, brands are responding to this demand. We’ve already seen models like the Maruti Jimny and Force Gurkha evolve in similar directions. The Thar ROXX, therefore, represents the next logical step — where capability meets lifestyle.
Why the Market is Ready
India’s road infrastructure has improved dramatically over the past decade. More people are traveling by road for leisure, exploring remote destinations, and embracing outdoor lifestyles.
Moreover, the rise of social media has amplified this trend. Pictures of SUVs parked in mountains or by rivers inspire others to live similarly adventurous lives. Therefore, manufacturers like Mahindra are positioning their products around experience-driven ownership rather than pure utility.
In this changing market, the Thar ROXX has the potential to dominate. It blends traditional toughness with the comfort and usability today’s buyers expect.
A Statement of Identity
Buying a Thar has never been just about transportation. It’s a declaration of individuality. With the ROXX, that statement becomes even stronger. It says you’re ready for adventure but equally prepared for everyday life.
Furthermore, the SUV’s modern enhancements don’t erase its iconic charm. They simply make it more approachable for those who previously admired it from afar. In many ways, the Thar ROXX is Mahindra’s way of inviting more people into its adventure tribe.
Conclusion The Spirit of Adventure Evolved
The Mahindra Thar ROXX represents more than a new SUV. It’s the evolution of a mindset. It proves that adventure no longer belongs only to the wild-hearted few. Today, it’s a part of urban dreams and family aspirations.
By adding practicality to passion, Mahindra has created something unique — a vehicle that can take you to the mountains yet fit seamlessly into your daily life.
As the Thar ROXX rolls onto Indian roads, it will remind every driver of a simple truth: adventure is not a place; it’s a way of living.
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References :-
Mahindra Thar ROXX Specifications & Features – CarDekho
New Mahindra Thar ROXX SUV – Mahindra Official
2025 Mahindra Thar ROXX Updated With New Features – NDTV
Mahindra Thar ROXX Waiting Period Reduces to 6 Months – Autocar India
