Mahindra Automotive is gearing up for the launch of the highly anticipated Mahindra Thar Armada. This 5-door variant of the popular off-roader is set to hit the Indian market around the 15th of August. Recently, it has been reported that the company will be offering the new Thar five-door Armada with three engine options. Sources have stated that the company will be offering this SUV with the same 1.5-litre diesel engine from the Thar RWD variant. There will also be two more engine options.
According to Autocar India, the Thar five-door Armada will be getting the 1.5-litre diesel engine. This engine will be offered with the entry-level variants. This is the same engine that we currently see under the bonnet of the 3-door Thar RWD.
Presently, it produces 117 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. However, we have to be patient to know if it will maintain these figures in the 5-door variant. Some believe that the company could retune this engine to fit the heavier five-door Thar Armada.
More powerful engine options
2.2-litre Diesel Engine
Next up on the list of engine options for the Thar five-door is the 2.2-litre turbo diesel. This more powerful motor will be borrowed from the Mahindra Scorpio N. Currently, this engine produces 175 bhp and 400 Nm of torque.
Some reports have claimed that this engine is expected to be uptuned to handle the additional weight of the larger Thar Armada. Once launched, the Thar Armada will become the more rugged alternative to the already popular Scorpio-N.
2.0-litre Petrol Engine
What has also been reported is that the company will also be offering the 2.0-litre petrol engine with the five-door Thar Armada. This engine will also be sourced from the Scorpio-N. It will continue to deliver the same 203 bhp and 380 Nm of torque.
Will it come with a 2WD layout?
According to reports, the Thar Armada will be offered by the brand with both 4WD and 2WD options across its range. The company is aiming to keep the offerings of drivetrain the same as the 3-door counterpart. The primary reason behind this extensive lineup is flexibility.
Over the years, we have noted that this allows buyers to choose a model that best suits their needs. Whether it’s the rugged 4WD for off-road enthusiasts or the more economical 2WD for city driving.
Market Positioning and Competition
Mahindra is positioning the Thar Armada as a rugged alternative to midsize SUVs. These SUVs include the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and others. It will also become an alternative to Mahindra’s own Scorpio-N, as stated above.
However, when it comes to its primary positioning, the Thar Armada will take the place as the more practical version of the Thar three-door. It will help in eliminating the biggest complaints that people have with the three-door model, and it will be practical for family buyers. The new SUV will come with proper middle row bench seats and creature comforts.
Unofficial bookings have commenced
Although official bookings have not yet commenced, it has been reported that some dealers have already started accepting unofficial reservations for the Thar Armada. Reportedly, these dealers are taking booking amounts ranging from Rs 25,000 to Rs 50,000.
The Thar Armada is expected to be priced starting at around Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom). This will position it slightly above the entry-level 3-door Thar 1.5 diesel RWD and the Scorpio-N. This will also place it competitively against the Force Gurkha 5-door and the Maruti Jimny.
