The Mahindra Thar II 2.0 mStallion TGDi, producing 152 horsepower with a 4WD automatic transmission and four-seat configuration, represents a significant evolution in the iconic Thar lineage. Introduced in August 2020, this variant occupies a mid-range position within the second-generation Thar (II) lineup, offering a blend of on-road comfort and established off-road capability. It builds upon the foundation of the 1HX0 platform, aiming to broaden the Thar’s appeal beyond traditional purists with a more accessible and refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mahindra |
| Model | Thar |
| Generation | Thar II |
| Type | 2.0 mStallion TGDi (152 Hp) 4WD Automatic 4-Seater |
| Start of production | August, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle, Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 152 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm / 236.02 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 rpm |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 / 121.86 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l / 15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal |
| Length | 3985 mm / 156.89 in. |
| Width | 1820-1855 mm / 71.65 – 73.03 in. |
| Height | 1844-1920 mm / 72.6 – 75.59 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm / 96.46 in. |
| Front track | 1520 mm / 59.84 in. |
| Rear track | 1520 mm / 59.84 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 219-226 mm / 8.62 – 8.9 in. |
| Approach angle | 41.2-41.8° |
| Departure angle | 36-36.8° |
| Ramp-over angle | 26.2-27° |
| Wading depth | 650 mm / 25.59 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives front wheels, rear via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc, 303 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 282 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R16; 255/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Thar II 2.0 mStallion TGDi lies a 1.997-liter, inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The ‘TGDi’ designation stands for Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection, highlighting the key technologies employed. The engine produces a peak output of 152 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 3000 rpm. This torque band is particularly useful for off-road driving, providing ample low-end grunt. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, a relatively recent addition to the Thar lineup, designed to offer a more convenient driving experience compared to the standard six-speed manual.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 152 hp engine and the automatic transmission delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the lower-powered diesel variants or the manual gasoline options. While not as overtly powerful as some competitors, the 2.0 mStallion TGDi provides sufficient power for both on-road cruising and moderate off-road excursions. The automatic transmission offers smooth gear changes, although some reviewers have noted a slight hesitation during quick acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned to prioritize usability and fuel efficiency, rather than outright performance. Compared to the manual transmission, the automatic sacrifices some driver engagement but gains in ease of use, particularly in challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 mStallion TGDi variant typically comes well-equipped, positioning itself as a mid-range offering. Standard features generally include air conditioning, power windows, power steering, and a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). Safety features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors are also standard. Higher trim levels add features like a larger touchscreen, automatic climate control, cruise control, and leatherette upholstery. The convertible soft-top roof is standard, while a hard-top option is available as an accessory.
Chassis & Braking
The Thar II utilizes a robust body-on-frame chassis, providing the necessary strength and durability for off-road use. The front suspension consists of a double wishbone setup with a transverse stabilizer, while the rear features an independent multi-link spring suspension, also with a stabilizer. This suspension configuration aims to balance on-road comfort with off-road articulation. The braking system features disc brakes on the front wheels (303mm diameter) and drum brakes on the rear wheels (282mm diameter). Hydraulic power steering provides responsive and precise steering control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The introduction of the 2.0 mStallion TGDi automatic variant was generally well-received by the Indian automotive press. Critics praised the engine’s refinement and the convenience of the automatic transmission. However, some noted that the performance wasn’t dramatically different from the diesel variants, and the fuel economy was comparatively lower. Compared to the 1.5-liter diesel engine, the petrol engine offers a more responsive and refined driving experience, but at the cost of fuel efficiency. Against the manual gasoline variants, the automatic provides ease of use, but may feel slightly less engaging for driving enthusiasts.
Legacy
The Mahindra Thar II 2.0 mStallion TGDi automatic has quickly become a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and comfortable off-road vehicle. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the mStallion engine family has proven to be relatively robust in other Mahindra vehicles. The combination of a petrol engine and an automatic transmission has broadened the Thar’s appeal to a wider audience, attracting buyers who may have previously overlooked the model. In the used car market, these variants are holding their value reasonably well, reflecting the continued demand for the Thar’s unique blend of off-road capability and modern features. The 2.0 TGDi automatic represents a pivotal step in the Thar’s evolution, solidifying its position as a leading off-road vehicle in the Indian market.
