Mahindra’s Thar Armada Spotted: Soft Top or Panoramic Sunroof?

Following the phenomenal success of the Thar 4WD and RWD models, Mahindra is preparing the 5-door version. The 5-door Thar is a direct competitor to the Maruti Jimny and the recently launched Force Gurkha 5-door variant, but it may also impact the sales of compact cars in the same price range. Recent spy shots of the 5-door Thar show what could be a soft top or a panoramic sunroof.

Thar Armada Soft Top Spotted

Test vehicles of the 5-door Thar have been frequently spotted over the past few months. The 5-door Thar is one of the most anticipated car launches of 2024. As revealed by Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director & CEO (Automotive & Agriculture Sector), Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, the 5-door Thar will definitely go on sale in mid-2024. -2024 is coming.

Although an exact date has not been announced, Rajesh shared his thoughts on the five-door Thar and its launch at a recent corporate meeting. The SUV could be unveiled to the public on August 15, 2024. The wait will soon be over as the launch schedule has been officially confirmed. So far, we have seen Thar Armada test vehicles that have a fixed hardtop, like a conventional vehicle. Mahindra seems to be staying true to the tradition of a true lifestyle SUV by testing a soft-top version of the Thar Armada. As recent spy photographs show, the Thar Armada appears to have a hollow roof.

So, this particular test vehicle could be testing a soft-top mechanism. On the contrary, it could also be a test vehicle for a panoramic sunroof. Mahindra is really banking on the adventure lifestyle genre and we expect it to be a soft-top rather than a panoramic sunroof.

The 5-door Thar could become a best-seller

While the 4WD Thar has been a best-seller since its launch, sales have picked up even more with the RWD model launched last year. A similar thing is expected for the 5-door model. This is obvious as the 5-door model can appeal to a much wider clientele. Those looking for a compact SUV can consider the 5-door Thar as an alternative. The exterior will benefit from some cosmetic upgrades to offer a slight differentiation from the 3-door model. The top-end variants are expected to get 19-inch wheels. With around 300 mm of extra wheelbase, there will be enough space for all passengers. A whole range of new features will also be available on the 5-door Thar. Some of the highlights include a larger touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, dual-tone front and rear dashboard and armrests, rear air vents and a camera-based ADAS package.

Mahindra Thar 5-door Features

For the Thar 5-door, both 4×2 and 4×4 options will be available. Engine options include the 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel. For customers on a budget, Mahindra is also offering a base variant with a 1.5-litre diesel engine and RWD configuration. This will enable Mahindra to maximise the customer base for the Thar 5-door.