Mahindra rolls out Thar for off-road adventurists
By IANSTuesday, December 28, 2010
NEW DELHI - Automobile major Mahindra and Mahindra Tuesday launched a compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) - Thar CRDe - targeted at off-road enthusiasts, style-seekers and even war-veterans.
“Having realised the potential of this emerging segment of off-road enthusiasts and lifestyle seekers, we have launched the Thar,” said chief executive of the company’s automotive division Rajesh Jejurikar.
According to him, Thar - priced at Rs.5.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), is an evolved version of the company’s earlier brands like Commander Jeep, CJ 340, MM 540, the Classic and the Legend.
“The Thar is a manual 4×4 machine coupled with a powerful CRDe engine 77 kw (105 BHP) and drive by wire technology which is capable of providing variable speeds and acceleration,” a company executive said.
The compact SUV is powered by a 2.5 litre diesel engine with modern suspension layout with abuse resistant rear leaf springs, light and responsive integral power steering for maneuverability, and better ground clearance for off-roading on various terrains.
“The cabin can seat seven people, while two rear benches can be folded to create a massive luggage area. It is available in BS-VI (Bharat Stage) variant with power steering as a standard fitment,” the company said in a regulatory filing.
The company added that the compact-SUV will be launched in rest of India by January. Meanwhile, the company also plans to launch a premium pick-up truck in the first half of 2011, details of which were not disclosed.
