When it comes to rugged off-road SUVs in India, the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny stand out as two strong contenders. Both vehicles are designed for adventure seekers but cater to different preferences in design, features, and performance. In this article, we’ll compare the Mahindra Thar vs Maruti Suzuki Jimny across key parameters like engine, price, dimensions, colors, features, safety, and specs — helping you decide which off-roader suits you best.
Mahindra Thar 2025 Overview
The 2025 Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift has officially launched in India, starting at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). The latest model brings several cosmetic, interior, and feature upgrades while retaining its rugged DNA.
Mahindra Thar Price in India
| Variant | Engine & Transmission | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| AX (Base Model) | Diesel Manual (RWD) | ₹9.99 Lakh |
| LXT Diesel MT RWD | Diesel Manual | ₹12.19 Lakh |
| LXT Petrol AT RWD | Petrol Automatic (TC) | ₹13.99 Lakh |
| LXT Petrol MT 4WD | Petrol Manual | ₹14.69 Lakh |
| LXT Diesel MT 4WD | Diesel Manual | ₹15.49 Lakh |
| LXT Petrol AT 4WD | Petrol Automatic (TC) | ₹16.25 Lakh |
| LXT Diesel AT 4WD | Diesel Automatic (TC) | ₹16.99 Lakh |
Mahindra Thar Engine and Performance
The new Mahindra Thar engine options include both petrol and diesel units with manual and automatic transmissions the larger 2184 cc diesel engine is reserved for the more capable 4WD (4×4) versions only, while the smaller 1497 cc diesel is only available in a basic RWD (4×2) manual configuration. The 1997 cc petrol engine is the most versatile, available with both transmissions and in both 2WD and 4WD. The 4×4 variants come with crawl mode and an electronic brake locking differential (BLD), making the Thar an ideal off roader.
It delivers a top speed of around 155 km/h, offering a perfect mix of power and control. Its suspension setup is designed for tackling rough terrains while maintaining comfort during city commutes.
Mahindra Thar Design, and Colors
The 2025 Thar facelift features a refreshed body-colored radiator grille, silver bumper accents, and a dual-tone finish. Dimensionally, it remains muscular and imposing, with a tall stance that enhances road presence.
The Mahindra Thar colors now include Tango Red, Battleship Grey, Deep Forest Green, Galaxy Grey, Everest White, and Stealth Black, adding more personality and customization options.
Also read: New Gen Hyundai Venue Facelift Launch Confirmed
Mahindra Thar Interior and Features
Inside, the 2025 Mahindra Thar interior offers a luxurious and modern feel. It now features a massive 26.03-inch HD infotainment touchscreen, all-black leather seats, rear AC vents with armrest, and roof-mounted speakers. Other notable Mahindra Thar features include:
➡️ Steering-mounted controls
➡️Cruise control
➡️Rear parking camera
➡️Electrically adjustable ORVMs
➡️50:50 split rear seats
➡️Washable interiors
Mahindra Thar Safety and Specs
On the safety front, the Thar proudly holds a 4-Star Global NCAP safety rating. Key Mahindra Thar safety features include, Overall, the Thar combines performance, comfort, and safety, making it one of the best off-road SUVs under ₹17 lakh in India.
- Dual front airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESP)
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
- Rear-view camera
- Built-in roll cage for cabin protection
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Overview
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny is another capable compact SUV designed for off-road performance with a smaller footprint. It’s powered by Maruti’s trusted K15B 1.5L petrol engine and features the brand’s AllGrip Pro 4×4 technology for excellent traction and control.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Price in India
| Variant | Engine & Transmission | Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|
| Zeta Pro MT | Petrol Manual | ₹12.32 Lakh |
| Alpha Pro MT | Petrol Manual | ₹13.23 Lakh |
| Zeta Pro AT | Petrol Automatic (TC) | ₹13.38 Lakh |
| Alpha Pro MT Dual Tone | Petrol Manual | ₹13.39 Lakh |
| Alpha Pro AT | Petrol Automatic (TC) | ₹14.29 Lakh |
| Alpha Pro AT Dual Tone | Petrol Automatic (TC) | ₹14.45 Lakh |
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Engine, Specs, and Performance
Under the bonet, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny engine produces 103 bhp @ 6000 rpm and 134.2 Nm @ 4000 rpm, paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.
It gives a top speed of around 140 km/h and offers a fuel efficiency of 16.94 km/l, making it one of the most economical off roaders in its class. The suspension setup includes 3-link rigid axle with coil springs at both front and rear, ensuring stability even on uneven terrains.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Dimensions and Colors
The Jimny is a 5-seater SUV with compact dimensions, making it easier to drive in cities compared to the Thar. It offers a ground clearance of 210 mm and a fuel tank capacity of 40 liters.
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny colors include both single and dual-tone options, such as Kinetic Yellow, Granite Grey, Bluish Black, Nexa Blue, and Sizzling Red with Bluish Black Roof, appealing to young adventure lovers.
Also read: Honda CB125 Hornet Price, Features, Top Speed and Colors
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Features and Interior
Even though the Jimny looks compact, its interior is practical and tech loaded. It features a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ infotainment system (on top variants), Android Auto & Apple CarPlay (Wireless), Bluetooth connectivity, 4-speaker setup, and multi-function steering wheel.
➡️ Keyless entry
➡️ Auto climate control
➡️ Rearview camera
➡️ Power windows
➡️ Electric power steering
Maruti Suzuki Jimny Safety and Ratings
The Suzuki Jimny scores a 3-Star Euro NCAP safety rating, backed by a comprehensive package. This includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, and specialized off-road aids like hill-hold and descent control. It also adds practical features such as a rearview camera and ISOFIX mounts for enhanced safety and convenience. While not as heavily built as the Thar, the Jimny offers decent protection and reliability, especially for lighter off-road conditions.
Mahindra Thar vs Maruti Suzuki Jimny: Key Differences
| Feature | Mahindra Thar | Maruti Suzuki Jimny |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹9.99 – ₹16.99 Lakh | ₹12.32 – ₹14.45 Lakh |
| Engine Options | Petrol & Diesel | Petrol only |
| Power Output | Up to 150 bhp | 103 bhp |
| Transmission | Manual & Automatic | Manual & Automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD | 4WD only |
| Safety Rating | 4-Star GNCAP | 3-Star Euro NCAP |
| Fuel Efficiency | 12–15 km/l | 16.9 km/l |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 140 km/h |
| Infotainment System | 26.03-inch Touchscreen | 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ |
| Seating Capacity | 4-Seater | 5-Seater |
Which is Better: Mahindra Thar or Maruti Suzuki Jimny?
If you want power, road presence, and serious off-roading ability, the Mahindra Thar is the better choice with its diesel engine, high safety rating, and rugged design. However, if your priority is daily drivability, fuel efficiency, and a compact 4×4, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny makes more sense but both are excellent off roader car.
Both the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny bring unique strengths to the table. The Thar dominates with its muscular performance and modern features, while the Jimny impresses with efficiency, ease of driving, and reliability.