The Mahindra Thar and Jimny car are two of the most affordable 4×4 SUVs in India. Both are capable off-road and offer enough everyday usability. But which one gives you better value for your money? This comparison of prices, features, and configurations should help you decide.
The Mahindra Thar is known for its tough build and go-anywhere capability. It is one of the most popular SUVs from Mahindra and appeals to people who love off-road adventures. Over the years, Mahindra has made it more comfortable and feature-rich, while keeping its rugged DNA intact.
There are multiple Mahindra Thar configurations to choose from. You get options for both petrol and diesel engines, manual and automatic gearboxes, and 4×2 or 4×4 drive systems. This variety allows buyers to pick one based on their budget and needs.
The Jimny car from Maruti Suzuki is a global favourite, finally launched in India with a 5-door version. It’s smaller than the Thar but equally serious about off-roading. The Jimny is lightweight, simple to drive, and comes with Suzuki’s proven AllGrip Pro 4×4 system.
Unlike the Thar, the Jimny is offered only with a petrol engine and manual or automatic transmission. It’s ideal for those who want an off-roader that’s also easy to handle in the city.
Pricing plays a big role when deciding between these two SUVs. Let’s see how they compare in terms of cost.
So, the Thar’s starting price is lower, but its top model is costlier. The Jimny sits somewhere in between. The Thar’s 4×2 petrol version gives it a big price advantage for those who want the look and feel of an off-roader without needing a 4×4.
Here’s where the Mahindra Thar configurations stand out. The Thar offers two engine options:
Both engines come with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The Thar also offers a 4×2 option with the petrol engine, which makes it more affordable and fuel-efficient for urban buyers.
On the other hand, the Jimny carcomes with a single 1.5-litre K15B petrol engine producing 103 bhp. It’s paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. While it’s less powerful than the Thar, the Jimny’s lighter weight helps it perform well on off-road trails and city roads alike.
The Mahindra Thar feels more powerful and has better road presence. Its larger size, wider track, and higher ground clearance make it a true off-roader. However, in city traffic, it can feel big and heavy.
The Jimny car is easier to drive in the city because of its compact size. It’s narrow and easy to park, yet surprisingly capable off-road. The AllGrip Pro system with a low-range transfer case allows it to climb steep slopes and handle tough terrain easily.
If you plan to use your SUV mainly in the city with occasional weekend adventures, the Jimny fits better. If you want a more powerful off-roader that can handle serious trails, the Thar is the one to go for.
Mahindra has made big improvements in the Thar’s interior. The cabin now feels more premium with touchscreen infotainment, roof-mounted speakers, power windows, and cruise control. The seating position is upright and commanding, but getting into the rear seat isn’t very easy.
The Jimny car, on the other hand, offers better rear-seat accessibility thanks to its five-door layout. The dashboard is simple and functional. It gets features like a 9-inch SmartPlay Pro+ touchscreen, automatic climate control, and multiple airbags. While not luxurious, it’s very practical. In short, the Thar feels more rugged and premium in the front seats, while the Jimny is more practical for families.
The Mahindra Thar has limited boot space with the rear seats up, which can be an issue for long trips. However, you can fold down the seats to get more storage. The Jimny car has better luggage capacity even with passengers seated in the back. Its boxy design also makes it easier to load and unload luggage. For small families or people who travel light, the Jimny is more convenient.
Both SUVs score well on safety. The Thar comes with dual airbags, ABS, ESP, hill-hold, and hill-descent control. It also has a strong body structure that adds to its ruggedness. The Jimny car includes six airbags, ESP, and hill-hold assist as standard. Maruti Suzuki has focused on safety despite the car’s lightweight. The Jimny has a ladder-frame chassis like the Thar, which makes it tough and stable on rough roads.
Fuel economy can be a deciding factor for many buyers.
So, if mileage is your main concern, the Jimny clearly wins.
Mahindra offers the Thar in several configurations:
This gives buyers more flexibility to choose based on usage and budget. The Mahindra Thar configurations are its biggest strength because they suit both hardcore off-roaders and city commuters. The Jimny car is offered in two variants — Zeta and Alpha. Both come with 4×4 as standard. While there’s less variety, it keeps things simple for buyers who want a ready off-roader.
Both SUVs have their own charm. The Mahindra Thar is more powerful, more imposing, and offers multiple configurations. It’s perfect for people who love strong performance and off-road thrills. The Jimny car is more compact, lighter, and easier to drive daily. It also delivers better mileage and rear-seat comfort. For those who want a practical 4×4 that works in the city and on trails, the Jimny is a great pick.
If you want a balance of power, looks, and multiple choices, go for the Mahindra Thar. But if you value convenience, mileage, and everyday usability, the Jimny car gives you better value overall.
The competition between Mahindra Thar and Jimny car shows how Indian buyers now have more options for capable 4×4 SUVs. Both models bring their own strengths to the table — and whichever one you choose, you’re bound to enjoy the adventure.
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