Is the Mahindra Thar Roxx Worth the Hype?

The Mahindra Thar Roxx has been one of the most talked-about SUV launches in recent times. Building on the legendary Thar brand, the Roxx promises to offer a perfect mix of rugged off-road capability and everyday practicality. With bold claims, advanced features, and a five-door body style, it certainly sounds impressive on paper. But is it truly worth the hype? This article takes a closer look.

A Strong Road Presence

The Mahindra Thar Roxx carries forward the iconic DNA of the Thar but with significant updates. It sits on Mahindra’s new M_Glyde platform, which provides a longer wheelbase and a more commanding stance. The upright A-pillars, flat windscreen, and squared wheel arches give it an unmistakable SUV silhouette.

Design highlights include:

• C-shaped LED DRLs and LED projector headlamps for a modern front profile.
• R19 diamond-cut alloy wheels — the largest in the segment — which boost both aesthetics and capability.
• A dual-tone metal roof that is as functional as it is stylish.
• The familiar tailgate-mounted spare wheel reinforces its rugged character.

For buyers who want their SUV to stand tall and look premium, the Roxx certainly delivers.

Spacious and Premium Interiors

One of the most important upgrades in the Roxx is its five-door, five-seater configuration. Unlike the three-door Thar, this SUV is genuinely practical for families and groups, making ingress and egress far easier.

Inside, the Roxx surprises with a refined and feature-loaded cabin:

• Voice-assisted panoramic sunroof (Skyroof) — the largest in its class.
• Powered and ventilated front seats, ensuring comfort even in harsh Indian summers.
• Harman Kardon 9-speaker sound system with Dolby Atmos, delivering a theatre-like audio experience on the move.
• Twin 26.03 cm digital screens for infotainment and driver information.
• Dual-zone climate control and rear AC vents, ensuring passengers stay comfortable in all weather.

The extended wheelbase provides class-leading cabin space, with ample legroom and headroom for rear passengers. Clearly, the Roxx isn’t just about rugged looks — it’s also about modern comfort.

Packed with Technology

The Thar Roxx embraces tech like never before. Its Adrenox connected car system integrates Alexa for voice commands, remote vehicle control, and 80+ smart features. Features such as wireless charging, over-the-air (OTA) updates, and advanced navigation enhance the digital experience.

Safety tech is equally impressive. The Roxx introduces ADAS Level 2, including:

• Adaptive cruise control.
• Forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking.
• Lane departure warning and lane keep assist.
• Traffic sign recognition and high-beam assist.

Combined with its 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, six airbags, and an advanced ESP suite, the Roxx sets a new benchmark for safety in its class.

Performance and Capability

Under the bonnet, the Roxx retains Mahindra’s proven engines:

• 2.0L mStallion turbo-petrol, producing up to 130 kW (≈174 bhp) and 380 Nm of torque.
• 2.2L mHawk diesel, available in multiple tunes, with the higher-spec delivering 128.6 kW (≈172 bhp) and 400 Nm of torque.

Transmission options include 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearboxes. Buyers also get the choice of RWD and 4WD variants, with part-time 4WD featuring a low-range transfer case.

Off-road enhancements include:

• 4XPLOR terrain modes (Snow, Mud, Sand) for optimal traction.
• CrawlSmart technology which automatically adjusts throttle response during steep climbs.
• Electronic Locking Differential (ELD) boosts traction on slippery surfaces.
• IntelliTurn assists with sharp turns on tricky trails.

With a 650 mm water-wading depth, 41.7° approach angle, and 36.1° departure angle, the Roxx is every bit as capable off-road as its predecessors.

Variants and Pricing

The Thar Roxx is available in six trims — MX1, MX3, MX5, AX3L, AX5L, and AX7L — covering a wide spectrum of features and budgets.

Ex-showroom prices start at around ₹12.25 lakh for the entry-level MX1 petrol manual and go up to ₹22.06 lakh for the fully-loaded AX7L diesel automatic 4×4.

Colour options include bold shades like Nebula Blue, Tango Red, Everest White, Deep Forest, Battleship Grey, Burnt Sienna, and Stealth Black.

Is It Worth the Hype?

The Mahindra Thar Roxx delivers on almost every front:

• Design: Bold and modern, with the presence of a true SUV.
• Practicality: Five doors and five seats make it family-friendly.
• Comfort: Premium interiors, ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof.
• Technology: Digital cockpit, connected features, and ADAS Level 2.
• Performance: Powerful engines with serious off-road hardware.
• Safety: 5-star crash rating and a long list of safety aids.

Of course, it comes at a premium compared to the regular Thar. But for those who want the Thar DNA combined with comfort, space, and advanced features, the Roxx justifies the price tag.

Final Thoughts

The Mahindra Thar Roxx is more than just an extended version of the iconic Thar — it’s a complete lifestyle SUV built for both city roads and wild trails. By combining rugged capability with premium features and modern tech, it sets a new standard for adventure-ready SUVs in India.

So, is it worth the hype? Absolutely. The Roxx lives up to expectations by broadening the Thar’s appeal from hardcore off-road enthusiasts to families and urban buyers who want a versatile, stylish, and capable SUV.