Mahindra Thar Roxx: If there is one SUV that has constructed a cult following for itself in India, it’s the Mahindra Thar.
And just when we thought we couldn’t get any more rugged or adventurous, Mahindra throws in a bold new twist — the Thar ROXX!
Built to attract envious glances and conquer the most challenging trails, the Thar ROXX is pretty much Mahindra letting its hair down and playing around with its off-road flagship.
It’s beefier, bolder, and made for riders who setup camp less than twenty miles outside of town. But is there more to it than just cosmetic flare? Let’s break it down.
The Gorden Wagener touch, from its more aggressive nose to its wide hips, makes the new car look meaner, straight from the factory.
One look at the Thar ROXX and the most noticeable change is how distinct it looks from the standard model.
Mahindra has kitted it out with factory-fitted accessories that shout bad-attitude.
Think ROXX body decals, blacked-out alloy wheels, matte finish bits, steel front bumper, custom ROXX badgingmakes sure that everyone around knows that this isn’t just another TharSTRACT.
It also comes with off-road-spec accoutrements including rock sliders, tow hooks and a roof rack — they’re all functional and look badass off the beaten path, too.
This is the type of SUV that might show up at an off-road rally or a hilltop campground and command all attention without even trying.
Still the Thar We Love Inside
Step inside and you’re welcomed by the familiar rugged yet refined Thar cabin with a few cosmetic add-ons like ROXX-badged seat covers and special mats.
The general fit and finish are unchanged — solid materials, water-resistant switches, solid dashboard.
The good news is that the 7.0-inch touchscreen-based infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard, and so are features such as cruise control, two airbags, ABS and EBD, rear parking sensors.
Again, there’s nothing ground-breaking here, but the ROXX embellishments certainly add some custom-built feel.
No Frills Performance on and Off the Track
Mechanically, the Thar ROXX is offered with the same set of powertrains — 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol and the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel — with the choice of a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox.
And, yes, 4×4 with low-range transfer case is indeed standard.
On rough trails, this thing is a monster. It’s perfectly happy to trample into water, or scramble over rocks or through sand dunes.
Not just Tigers, due to features like mechanical locking rear differential, hill descent control and electronic stability control, the Thar ROXX deals with the tough off-roading conditions as effortlessly as the regular version.
On-Road Manners: Not One of its Fortes
I mean, let’s be real — the Thar (ROXX or otherwise) is still the more off-roader of the two. On city streets or in traffic or on a long highway cruise, your reward will be a bouncy ride, clunky steering and sitting bolt-upright.
If a smooth, car-like SUV is what you’re after, this is not your ride. But if you like feeling connected to the road (and the mud), it’s all part of the charm.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Proven bold, head turning KTM design you can bolt on straight from the factory
Genuine off-road ability with proven 4×4 system
Genuine factory accessories so you can breathe easy with no after market pain
Potent engines that perform well Exclusivity — it feels and looks special
Cons
Seats are surprisingly any but comfortable and headrests provide no support ❌ Ride quality on highways remains harsh
Not very fuel-efficient
Three door design compromises practicality
Some style-focused extras cost extra
Bottom Line for Briefs: Made for the Brave
Mahindra Thar Roxx:
The Mahindra Thar ROXX isn’t made for everyone — and that’s just the point. It is designed for those who live for day trips to the mountains and trails and adrenaline-filled joy rides.
It’s for people who don’t just want an S.U.V.; they want a lifestyle on wheels.
If you’re already in love with a Thar and want the one that shouts even more — straight from the showroom floor, the ROXX sure seems a tempting offering.
Yes, it’ll cost more, but what you get is a factory custom 4×4 with serious street cred and trail capability.
For adventurers and explorers, and those with a taste for the extreme — this Thar is more than just a vehicle. It’s a statement.