Maruti Jimny vs Mahindra Thar – Better off-roader?

The new Thar started or rather reignited the lifestyle SUV segment in the country. Its success has forced a manufacturer like Maruti to take the risk and launch the Jimny. Maruti had showcased the car at the Auto Expo, and now it has revealed the pricing of the SUV. So how does it stack against the Mahindra Thar? In today’s article, let’s compare Jimny vs Thar. 

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Dimensions

Let’s start with the dimensions, though note both cars serve different purposes. The Jimny is 3985mm in length, 1645mm in width and 1720mm in height. The wheelbase of Jimny is 2590mm, and the ground clearance of 200mm. In comparison, the Thar is 3985mm in length, 1855mm in width & 1896mm in height. It sits on a wheelbase of 2450mm and has an unladen ground clearance of 226mm. The Thar is the bigger car, but the Jimny, due to its bigger wheelbase, gets better interior space. 

Jimny vs Thar – Specifications

The Jimny, on the other hand, comes only with petrol engine options. This engine is the 1.5-litre K15B unit capable of producing 101bhp & 134Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic gearbox. The Jimny feels decently powered in the media drive but will need to wait for more real-life usage. 

The Thar comes with three engine options. First engine option is a 2.0-litre petrol capable of producing 150bhp and 300Nm (MT)/320Nm (AT) of torque. We have two diesel engine options, a 1.5-litre unit capable of producing 118bhp and 300Nm of torque and a 2.2-litre unit capable of producing 130bhp and 320Nm of torque. The 2.2-litre unit comes with a manual and automatic option, while the smaller engine misses out on an automatic option.  

Features

Maruti has kitted the Jimny with features. It gets features like a 9-inch infotainment system, ARKAMYs sound system, basic Suzuki connect, auto headlamps, cruise control and all power windows. In comparison, the Thar comes with features like a 7-inch infotainment system, multi-function steering wheel, auto AC, TPMS, front fog lamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, connected car technology, and brake locking differential.

Pricing 

Maruti has not priced the Jimny as aggressively as earlier though nevertheless the Jimny starts from Rs 15.14 lakh and goes to Rs 17.88 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). In comparison, the Thar RWD starts from Rs 12.73 lakh and goes to Rs 15.96 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). While 4×4 Thar starts from Rs 16.60 lakh and goes to Rs 20.34 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).  

Jimny vs Thar – Conclusion 

So which is better? It is a difficult question to answer. The Jimny and Thar though off-roaders, they kind-of cater to different buyers. The Jimny shines in its off-roading capabilities due to its compact dimensions and nimbleness. While the Thar is the Macho off-roader with its strong road presence. So if you are looking for that macho feel then take the Thar blindfolded. While in off-road capabilities, you will have to test both cars in your use case. 

Which one will you pick? Do let us know in the comments. 

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