Trail Blazers: A Comparative Analysis of Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar Variants for Off-Roading Enthusiasts

What an Off-roading Enthusiast looks for in a car

Off-roading enthusiasts seek robust vehicles with formidable engines, high torque, and superior transmission systems. Critical attributes include the drive type, with a preference for AWD or 4WD, ample ground clearance, and pronounced approach and departure angles. The presence of safety systems such as ABS and ESC, along with driver assistance features like power steering and hill hold assist, add to the appeal. These specifications ensure the vehicle can effortlessly tackle rough and diverse terrains while ensuring the safety and control of the driver. The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar are among some of the best off-road cars in India.

Why Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar are popular among Off-roading Enthusiasts

As far as top off-roading SUVs in India are concerned, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar are lauded for their exceptional off-roading capabilities. The Grand Vitara, equipped with a sturdy engine, AWD, substantial ground clearance, and power steering, offers both safety and control in challenging terrains. Its ABS and ESC add to the vehicle’s safety, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

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The Mahindra Thar, with its powerful engine, high torque, 4WD, and noteworthy ground clearance, is purpose-built for off-roading adventures. Features like ABS, hill hold assist, and power steering amplify its allure, making it a preferred pick for those who enjoy conquering unchartered territories.

For this comparison, we have selected AWD/FWD variants of the Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar. These variants are priced between Rs 16 lakh and Rs 18 lakh.

Our Variants Shortlist for Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar

Variant	Price (INR)
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha AWD	1,691,000
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha AWD DT	1,707,000
Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Convert Top Diesel AT	1,668,000
Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Hard Top Diesel AT	1,678,000

The Grand Vitara Alpha AWD variants, equipped with a reliable engine, AWD, decent ground clearance, and safety features, offer a stable and safe off-roading experience. However, their engine power and torque are slightly lower compared to the Thar variants.

Mahindra Thar’s LX variants, with their robust engine, superior torque, 4WD, and excellent ground clearance, are designed to conquer rough terrains. ABS, hill hold assist, and power steering enhance safety and control, making them an ideal choice for off-roading – both mild and serious.

Best Variant among Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Mahindra Thar for Off-roading Enthusiasts

The Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Hard Top Diesel AT emerges as the best option among off-road vehicles in India. Its formidable engine, superior torque, 4WD drive type, and substantial ground clearance make it ideal for off-roading. Additionally, safety features like ABS and hill hold assist, along with power steering, ensure a safe and controlled ride in even the roughest terrains.

The Top 3 Choices

1. Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Hard Top Diesel AT
2. Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Convert Top Diesel AT
3. Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha AWD DT

Variant	ABS	Drive Type	Engine Power (BHP)	Engine Torque (Nm)	Ground Clearance (mm)
Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Hard Top Diesel AT	Yes	4WD	130	300	226
Mahindra Thar LX 4-Str Convert Top Diesel AT	Yes	4WD	130	300	226
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha AWD DT	Yes	AWD	101.64	136.8	208

The top two choices, the Mahindra Thar LX variants, outshine with their robust engines, high torque, 4WD drive type, and high ground clearance. The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara Alpha AWD DT, while not as powerful, offers stability with its AWD and reasonable ground clearance, ensuring it remains a worthy contender for off-roading enthusiasts.

However, it must be noted that though the Thar is more capable as an off-roading vehicle, it only has 2 doors, which makes its rear feel a little cramped. The Grand Vitara, on the other hand, does better on regular roads, and can seat four passengers comfortably. Also, it has a good boot capacity.

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