Mahindra Thar to Add an Entry-Level 4x4 Variant: The AX AC

Mahindra is set to expand the Thar lineup with a new 4x4 entry-level variant called the AX AC. This trim will sit below the AX(O) and LX trims and be geared toward off-road enthusiasts looking for a stripped-down, bare-bones option. The new variant is expected to come with the 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre petrol engines and could potentially lose out on some features currently offered on the higher-end AX(O) trim.

With the introduction of the new RWD variants of the Thar earlier this year, Mahindra was able to lower the entry price of the popular off-roader. This was achieved by reducing tax rates for the smaller diesel engine and eliminating off-road hardware. However, prices for the 4WD variants remained unchanged. The upcoming AX AC variant could respond to Maruti Suzuki's upcoming Jimny SUV, which is set to launch in May and is expected to undercut the current prices of the Thar as a lifestyle off-roader.

The Thar currently offers three engine options: a base-spec 118hp, 300Nm, 1.5-litre diesel engine, a 152hp, 300Nm, 2.0-litre petrol engine, and a 130hp, 300Nm, 2.2-litre diesel engine. Both petrol and diesel engines can have a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The upcoming AX AC variant is expected to be available with 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines only in MT 4x4.

The Mahindra Thar has currently priced between Rs 9.99 lakh-16.49 lakh for the diesel variants and Rs 13.49 lakh-15.82 lakh for the petrol versions, both ex-showroom Mumbai. Its only direct rival in the market is the Force Gurkha, but the upcoming Maruti Jimny will likely provide stiff competition.

While Mahindra briefly offered a bare-bones AX trim, it was discontinued due to side-facing bench seats that did not perform well in crash tests. The upcoming AX AC trim, however, will feature four forward-facing seats. This new variant could be an excellent option for off-road enthusiasts looking for a more affordable entry point into the Thar lineup.

In conclusion, Mahindra Thar's new entry-level 4x4 variant, the AX AC, is expected to be a bare-bones option for off-road enthusiasts. With its lower price point and stripped-down features, it could provide competition to Maruti Suzuki's upcoming Jimny SUV. While it may lose out on some features compared to the higher-end AX(O) trim, the AX AC will still offer the same impressive off-road capabilities as the rest of the Thar lineup.