The Mahindra Thar is one of India's most iconic off-road vehicles. It is known for its rugged design, strong performance, and adventure-ready capabilities. With the latest iteration, Mahindra Auto offers petrol and diesel engine options that cater to different driving preferences.

Understanding the differences between the two engine choices can help buyers make an informed decision. This article offers a detailed comparison of the petrol and diesel variants of the Mahindra Thar in terms of performance, efficiency, and overall driving experience.

1. Engine Specifications and Power Output

  • Petrol Engine: The Mahindra Thar's petrol variant is powered by a 2.0-litre mStallion 150 TGDi engine. This engine produces impressive power and torque, ensuring quick acceleration and a refined driving experience. It is paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, making it a versatile choice for urban and highway driving.
  • Diesel Engine: On the other hand, the diesel variant comes with a 2.2-litre mHawk and D117 130 CRDe engine options known for their reliability and efficiency. The diesel engine also offers a choice between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic transmission, providing flexibility for off-road enthusiasts and long-distance travellers.

2. Performance and Driving Experience

Let us explore the driving performance and experience of the two engine options: 

Petrol Variant

Diesel Variant

It offers a smoother, more refined SUV driving experience, making it ideal for city commutes and highway cruising.

It provides superior low-end torque, which benefits off-road SUV driving and adventure drives through tough terrains.

Turbocharged power (TGDi) ensures quick throttle response and impressive acceleration.

This engine offers better fuel efficiency for long-distance travellers and adventure seekers.

This engine offers better fuel efficiency for long-distance travellers and adventure seekers.

The diesel engine’s grunt and power delivery make it ideal for those who frequently drive on challenging roads.

3. Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Petrol Engine:

  • Petrol variants generally have lower fuel efficiency than diesel. This makes them slightly more expensive to run in the long term.
  • Petrol variants are ideal for short city drives or occasional long-distance travel.

Diesel Engine:

  • Diesel engines offer better fuel economy. This makes them more cost-effective for those covering higher mileage.
  • Due to diesel's lower price per litre (subject to market fluctuations), the running costs of these variants can be significantly lower over time.

4. Off-Roading Capabilities

The petrol and diesel variants of the Mahindra Thar SUV  come equipped with a 4WD drivetrain, ensuring excellent off-road capability. However, the diesel variant's higher torque output at lower RPMs (87.2 kW @ 3500 rpm) makes it slightly better suited for challenging terrains like sand, mud, and rocky paths.

5. Maintenance and Longevity

Petrol engines generally require less maintenance over time, with fewer moving parts and lower compression ratios than diesel engines.

Diesel engines, known for their durability and ability to cover higher mileage, may require more maintenance due to components like turbochargers, fuel injectors, and particulate filters.

Conclusion

Choosing between the petrol and diesel variants of the Mahindra Thar SUV should depend on individual preferences and driving needs. The petrol Thar SUV is an excellent choice if you prioritise smooth performance, lower maintenance, and city-friendly driving. On the other hand, the diesel Thar can be a better option if you seek better fuel efficiency, strong torque for off-roading, and cost-effective long-distance travel. Ultimately, both engine options retain the Thar's off-road capabilities. Both engine options ensure that adventure is always within reach, no matter which variant you choose.