After a long time, the auto space is back with its exceptional car models. One of them is SUVs, the champions among all the other cars. For offroad enthusiasts, Maruti has launched its new model, Maruti Jimny, on 7 June 2023. On the other hand, Mahindra Thar has also been famous for many years, and now the manufacturers are ready to launch a new model, the Mahindra Thar 5 Door, next year. 

Mahindra Thar Vs Maruti Jimny: which is better? These two are the most talked about manufacturers over the past few years. The most eye-catching thing is that these two have the best off-road vehicles on their list. But it is important to see the difference between them to understand who is the better. Let us dig into the features and the differences between them.  

Mahindra Thar Vs Maruti Jimny Features:

The Mahindra Thar poses a significant challenge to the Maruti Suzuki as both these vehicles are off-roaders. One of the major factors that attracted road enthusiasts to the Jimny is its accessibility in a 5-door version. Meanwhile, the Mahindra Thar has only offered a 3-door model. However, the Mahindra Thar 5 door is ready to be launched in the coming year. Let us now see the features and specifications of Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny: 

Body Styles: 

The Maruti Jimney is available in a 5-door model, whereas the Mahindra Thar has only 3-door body style. However, Mahindra has a soft and hard top in its Thar models. Choosing the Maruti Jimney is more practical because it offers a 5-door model, but Mahindra Thar is also ready to launch the 5-door Thar next year. 

Engine Specifications: 

The Maruti Jimney has a 1.5 liter K15B petrol engine, which is naturally aspirated, generating 103 bhp and 134 Nm of peak torque. Customers can decide whether to choose the 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed torque converter transmission. This model comes with Suzuki’s AllGrip 4x4 system as a primary feature. 

In contrast, the Mahindra Thar offers customers various engine choices, including a 2.2-litre diesel engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. The latter diesel engine generates 113 bhp and 300 Nm of maximum torque. Additionally, it is paired with a manual 6-speed gearbox, helping the rear wheels drive exclusively. However, this engine option does not come with 4-wheel drive capability. 

Dimensions: 

The dimensions of the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny are slightly different. The Thar measures 3,985 mm in length, 1,850 mm in height, and 1,820 mm in width. In contrast, the Jimny has the exact same length of 3,985 mm but is slightly narrower at 1,645 mm. Another distinction is the wheelbase of both vehicles. Jimny has a longer wheelbase of 2,590 mm, which is 145 mm more than the Mahindra Thar's. However, Mahindra has a higher ground clearance (226 mm). 

Off-road Capabilities

If you are going to purchase an SUV for off-roading purposes especially, you will surely be going to see the off-road capabilities for a more adventurous off-roading experience. The Mahindra Thar excels in the angle of approach, while the Maruti Jimny has a better performance in the departure angle. 

Features

Both SUVs have some similar features, such as a multifunction steering wheel, rear parking sensors, cruise control, an electronic stability program, a touchscreen infotainment system, hill hold control, and hill descent control. 

Additionally, the extra features of Jimny stand out with its six airbags, headlamp washers, automatic LED headlamps, engine stop/start button, and a larger 9-inch infotainment system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Price 

The ex-showroom of Mahindra Thar for the rear-wheel drive variant starts at ₹10.55 lakh and ₹13.87 lakh for the four-wheel drive variants. In contrast, the Maruti Jimny’s base model is priced at ₹12.74 lakh and  ₹15,05,000 for its top variant (alpha AT dual tone). 

Conclusion: 

SUVs are the first choice if you are going for an off-road driving. Mahindra and Maruti are two of the most popular car brands that always surprise their customers with something new and exceptional. Choosing between Mahindra Thar and Maruti Jimny can be tricky because both cars have exceptional features that will suit your off-roading adventure. Some of their features are worth looking at if you are considering buying an SUV; knowing the differences will surely be beneficial.