Mahindra launches off-roader Thar in India
21 Dec 2010
Utility vehicle and tractor major Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd has launched its 4X4 off-roader, Thar, making its entry into the compact SUV segment.
Thar CRDe is an evolved version of the Mahindra CJ340, the MM 540, the Classic and the Legend, the company said in a statement.
The Thar, which sports a 2500cc turbo diesel CRDe (common rail diesel engine), is a reworked version of the Commander Jeep that was pulled off the roads in early 2000.
"Having realised the potential of this emerging segment of off-road enthusiasts and lifestyle seekers, we have launched the Thar in India," said Rajesh Jejurikar, chief executive, automotive division, Mahindra & Mahindra.
The off-roader is available in two variants, the BS IV variant with a CRDe engine and the BS III variant with a DI engine as a base variant. Thar DI will be positioned as a lifestyle vehicle for the rural market with both two-wheel and four-wheel drive options, the company said.
The BS IV variant is priced at Rs5.99 lakh (ex showroom Delhi) while the BS III variant will be available at Rs4.47 lakh (ex showroom Jaipur).
Thar will initially be launched in Rajasthan and Kerala, followed by Delhi, Chandigarh, Bangalore, Mangalore by the end of December and the rest of India by January 2011, the company said.
Mahindra is a full-range player with a presence in almost every segment of the automobile industry, from two-wheelers to UVs, SUVs and CVs.