Mahindra has launched the RWD (rear wheel drive) version of the Thar in the Indian market for a starting price of INR 9.99 Lakh.

Mahindra is offering the RWD Thar in both petrol and diesel engine options. These include the smaller D117 1.5-litre diesel engine from the XUV300 that produces 117 BHP/ 300 Nm and a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol motor that makes 150 BHP and 320 Nm. The diesel engine comes paired with a 6-speed manual transmission while the petrol engine is offered with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The new diesel engine also gets an engine stop-start system.

The 4×2 Thar also gets two new colour options – Blazing Bronze and Everest White. The deletion of off-road-centric hardware from the RWD variant has made the Thar much more affordable. Unlike the 4×4 models, there is no option for a folding soft top on the 4X2 Thar. Similarly, a second lever for the 4WD system has now been replaced by a storage pocket.

Mahindra has also updated the Thar 4×4 for 2023 with the model now getting an electronic brake locking differential. Buyers of the Thar 4×4 LX Diesel will also get the option of a Mechanical Locking Differential. The 2023 Mahindra Thar also gets new accessory packs that include armrests with built-in storage, a rear armrest with cup holders and USB charging ports.