The new Mahindra Thar has been revealed, with the second-generation version of the body-on-frame off-roader billed as taking a “quantum leap” forward.

Some ten years after the arrival of the original Thar, the Indian firm says the new version has been designed to appeal to both “die-hard enthusiasts” and those seeking a “contemporary SUV”.

The Thar has grown slightly compared with its forebear (overall length has increased from 3 920 mm to 3 985 mm), with Mahindra claiming it benefits from a “wider, better-balanced stance”. It will be offered with a choice of hardtop and convertible roof options.

So, what about engine options? Well, while the outgoing Thar is powered by a 79 kW/247 N.m 2,5-litre turbodiesel, the new model will be offered with either a box-fresh 2,0-litre mStallion TGDi petrol engine or the firm’s familiar 2,2-litre mHawk turbodiesel unit. The turbocharged petrol unit makes 112 kW and 320 N.m, while the oil-burner offers 97 kW and 320 N.m.

Transmission options will include a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed torque converter automatic cog-swapper (both with a 4x4 manual shift transfer case with a low ratio).

Mahindra says the Thar has gained an “all-new” (independent front and multi-link rear) suspension setup, offering “class-leading” approach, departure and ramp-over angles of 41,8 degrees, 36,8 degrees and 27 degrees, respectively. Ground clearance comes in at 226 mm, while wading depth is rated at 650 mm. The off-roader furthermore features a mechanical locking differential on the rear axle as well as a brake locking differential.

Exterior features include LED daytime running lights, front foglamps, LED taillamps and 18-inch alloys wrapped in 255/65 R18 rubber. The new Thar will be available in a choice of six exterior colours.

Inside, the cabin gains an all-black theme with silver accent trim and faux carbon-fibre detailing around the air vents and centre bezel. The rear seats are now front facing with a 50:50 split (though a six-seater with four side-facing pews at the rear will seemingly also be offered in some markets), while the driver gains a height-adjustable perch and a tilt-adjustable steering column.

The interior furthermore scores a seven-inch touchscreen (with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality), “drizzle resistant” dashboard switches, a tyre-pressure monitoring system and cruise control.

Safety features include an electronic stability programme (with rollover mitigation), a built-in roll-cage, three-point seatbelts, dual airbags, ABS, a hill-hold function, hill descent control, Isofix child-seat anchors and rear parking sensors.

Original article from Car