When it comes to off-road vehicles in India, the Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both vehicles boast rugged designs, impressive off-road capabilities, and comfortable interiors. However, before making a decision, it’s essential to understand the key differences between these vehicles and consider which one suits your requirements best.
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Jimny vs Thar: Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Maruti Jimny is equipped with a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder petrol engine that generates 103 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission. On the other hand, the Mahindra Thar offers two engine options: a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder petrol engine producing 117 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque, or a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine with 150 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. The petrol engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, while the diesel engine comes with a six-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of performance, the Mahindra Thar takes the lead. With its diesel engine, it offers significantly more power and torque compared to Jimny’s petrol engine. Additionally, the Thar’s six-speed automatic transmission provides a smoother and more comfortable driving experience. However, it’s worth noting that the Jimny’s petrol engine delivers better fuel efficiency, with an ARAI-claimed mileage of 16.94 kmpl, outperforming the Thar’s 14.6 kmpl.
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Jimny vs Thar: Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar are highly capable off-road vehicles. The Jimny boasts a ground clearance of 210 mm, a water wading depth of 700 mm, and approach, departure, and break-over angles of 37 degrees, 49 degrees, and 28 degrees, respectively. On the other hand, the Thar offers a ground clearance of 226 mm, a water wading depth of 650 mm, and approach, departure, and break-over angles of 42 degrees, 44 degrees, and 30 degrees, respectively.
Due to its smaller size and lighter weight, the Jimny has a slight advantage in terms of maneuverability off-road. However, the Thar’s larger engine and more powerful transmission provide it with an edge in terms of overall power and torque. Ultimately, both vehicles offer excellent off-road capabilities, and the best choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the driver.
Jimny vs Thar: Interior and Comfort
The Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar feature different interior designs. The Jimny adapts a more basic and utilitarian approach, while the Thar offers a more luxurious and comfortable cabin. The Jimny provides seating for four passengers, whereas the Thar is available in both four- and five-seat configurations. The Jimny offers 85 liters of cargo space, while the Thar provides 100 liters.
In terms of comfort, the Thar takes the lead. Its seats are more comfortable, the ride quality is more compliant, and the cabin offers more spaciousness. In contrast, Jimny’s seats are firmer, and the ride can be slightly firm as well. However, it is surprising to find a relatively spacious cabin in such a compact vehicle like the Jimny.
Jimny vs Thar: Safety and Features
Both the Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar come equipped with a range of standard safety features, including ABS, EBD, dual airbags, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. Additionally, the Thar offers several additional safety features, such as a roll cage, side impact bars, and a rearview camera.
In terms of features, the Thar outshines the Jimny. It comes standard with several features that are not available on the Jimny, including a touchscreen infotainment system, a reversing camera, and a sunroof. Regrettably, the Jimny lacks a touchscreen infotainment system and a reversing camera.
Jimny vs Thar: Pricing
The Maruti Jimny is priced between Rs. 9.00 and 11.00 lakh, while the Mahindra Thar falls in the range of Rs. 10.55 to 16.10 lakh. The Jimny holds an advantage in terms of affordability, but the Thar compensates with more features and a more luxurious interior.
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Jimny vs Thar: Which one is right for you?
If you’re in the market for a fuel-efficient, capable off-road vehicle with a straightforward and practical interior, the Maruti Jimny would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a luxurious, capable off-road vehicle with a roomier interior and a wider array of features, the Mahindra Thar would be the better option.
To help you compare the two vehicles, here’s a summarized overview of their key differences:
| Feature | Maruti Jimny | Mahindra Thar |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-liter petrol | 2.2-liter petrol or diesel |
| Power | 103 horsepower | 117 horsepower (petrol) or 150 horsepower (diesel) |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 210 Nm (petrol) or 320 Nm (diesel) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual | 6-speed manual |
| Fuel economy | 16.94 kmpl | 14.6 kmpl (petrol) or 14.2 kmpl (diesel) |
| Off-road performance | Capable | More capable |
| Interior | Simple and functional | Luxurious |
| Comfort | Comfortable | More comfortable |
| Price | ₹9.00 lakh | ₹10.55 lakh |
Ultimately, the most effective way to determine the right vehicle for you is to take both the Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar for a test drive.
Conclusion
Both the Maruti Jimny and Mahindra Thar are exceptional off-road vehicles that offer rugged designs, impressive off-road capabilities, and comfortable interiors. While the Jimny is the more affordable option and delivers better fuel efficiency, the Thar stands out with its luxurious interior and additional features. Moreover, the Thar offers more power and better off-road capabilities, while the Jimny boasts better maneuverability. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on your specific needs and priorities as a driver.
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