The Mahindra Thar Armada is a name that resonates with SUV enthusiasts in India, combining the rugged appeal of the Mahindra Thar with the nostalgic charm of the Mahindra Armada—a legendary off-road vehicle from the 1990s. The Thar Armada represents a unique blend of classic design and modern performance, making it an interesting choice for those who appreciate both old-school SUVs and contemporary features.
In this article, we’ll explore the Mahindra Thar Armada, its history, and the price you can expect if you’re looking to purchase one. We’ll also take a look at what makes this SUV a beloved choice for off-road enthusiasts and how it compares with the modern Mahindra Thar.
A Brief History of the Mahindra Armada and Thar
The Mahindra Armada, launched in the 1990s, was one of the earliest SUVs designed by Mahindra for the Indian market. Known for its rugged build and off-road capabilities, the Armada became popular as a family SUV and for its utility in rural and tough terrains. It was a precursor to the modern-day SUVs that Mahindra is known for today, including the Mahindra Thar.
On the other hand, the Mahindra Thar was introduced in 2010 as a modern, updated take on Mahindra’s legacy of off-road vehicles. Known for its exceptional off-road performance, the Thar became a popular choice among adventure lovers, off-road enthusiasts, and urban dwellers who wanted a tough, yet stylish vehicle. The Thar has evolved significantly over the years with the latest models being packed with modern features, while still retaining their classic Jeep-like appearance.
When enthusiasts refer to the Thar Armada, they are often talking about modified or custom versions of the Mahindra Thar that pay homage to the Mahindra Armada, combining retro elements with modern features.
Key Features of the Mahindra Thar Armada
The Thar Armada is typically a custom or modified version of the Mahindra Thar, taking inspiration from the design and structure of the classic Armada. Here are some of the key features you might find in a Thar Armada:
Rugged Exterior Design
The Thar Armada retains the boxy, muscular design that is characteristic of both the original Armada and the modern Thar. With sharp lines, a high ground clearance, and an aggressive stance, the Thar Armada looks every bit like a tough off-road vehicle.
- Grille Design: The iconic 7-slat grille from the Mahindra Thar is often retained, but some custom builds feature the grille design of the original Armada for a vintage look.
- Body Structure: The body of the Thar Armada often features modifications like metal bumpers, side steps, and custom wheel arches, giving it a more rugged and retro appearance.
- LED Headlights and Taillights: While the original Armada had basic lighting, the Thar Armada usually features modern LED headlights and taillights, providing better visibility and a sleek, modern touch.
Off-Roading Capabilities
Like the Mahindra Thar, the Thar Armada retains its exceptional off-roading capabilities. Equipped with a 4×4 drivetrain, high ground clearance, and robust suspension systems, the Thar Armada can handle rough terrains, steep climbs, and muddy tracks with ease.
- 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive): The Thar Armada comes with a shift-on-the-fly 4WD system, allowing drivers to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes for optimal performance on various terrains.
- All-Terrain Tires: Many custom Thar Armadas are equipped with all-terrain tires, giving them excellent grip and stability on off-road trails.
- Enhanced Suspension: The Thar Armada often features off-road-tuned suspension systems, ensuring a smoother ride even in the toughest conditions.
Spacious Interiors with Modern Features
While the exterior retains the rugged charm of the Armada, the interiors of the Thar Armada often feature modern amenities. Custom builds may include premium leather upholstery, an upgraded infotainment system, and advanced climate control, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
- Infotainment System: Some Thar Armada models come with touchscreen infotainment systems that support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity.
- Comfortable Seating: The seats are typically upgraded to provide more comfort, with options for leather upholstery and custom stitching.
- Climate Control: To match modern expectations, the Thar Armada may also feature automatic climate control for better comfort during long drives.
| Feature | Details |
| Exterior Design | Boxy, rugged design with modern touches |
| Off-Roading Capability | 4WD, all-terrain tires, enhanced suspension |
| Interior Features | Touchscreen infotainment, leather seats, climate control |
Price of the Mahindra Thar Armada in India
The Mahindra Thar Armada is typically a custom-modified version of the Mahindra Thar, and its price can vary significantly depending on the level of customization and modifications done.
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated cost:
Base Model Price: Mahindra Thar
The base model of the Mahindra Thar starts at around ₹13.49 lakh and can go up to ₹16.49 lakh for the top-end variants, depending on the engine and transmission options.
- Petrol Variants: ₹13.49 lakh – ₹15.79 lakh
- Diesel Variants: ₹14.09 lakh – ₹16.49 lakh
Cost of Custom Modifications
Since the Thar Armada is not an official Mahindra model but a custom build, the cost of modifications can vary depending on what features and parts are used. Typical customizations can add an additional ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh to the price, depending on the modifications done to the body, interior, and performance aspects.
- Exterior Modifications: ₹1.5 lakh – ₹3 lakh (body kits, custom paint, off-road bumpers)
- Interior Modifications: ₹1 lakh – ₹2 lakh (upholstery, infotainment, climate control)
- Performance Upgrades: ₹1 lakh – ₹2 lakh (suspension, all-terrain tires, engine tuning)
Total Estimated Price of Thar Armada
If you’re looking to buy a customized Thar Armada, you can expect the total price to be in the range of ₹16 lakh to ₹21 lakh, depending on the extent of the modifications and customization.
| Variant | Price (₹) |
| Mahindra Thar Base Model | ₹13.49 lakh – ₹16.49 lakh |
| Custom Modifications | ₹2 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
| Total Estimated Price | ₹16 lakh – ₹21 lakh |
Thar Armada vs. Modern Mahindra Thar
If you’re trying to decide between a custom Thar Armada and a standard Mahindra Thar, here are some key differences to consider:
Classic vs. Modern Design
- Thar Armada: The Thar Armada features a more retro design, paying homage to the classic Mahindra Armada, with a boxier look and vintage design elements.
- Mahindra Thar: The modern Mahindra Thar has a more refined design, combining classic SUV looks with modern styling, such as LED lighting, chrome accents, and more aerodynamic lines.
Off-Roading Features
Both the Thar Armada and the modern Mahindra Thar are exceptional off-road vehicles with 4WD systems and rugged builds. However, the modern Thar comes with additional features such as traction control, hill descent control, and terrain management modes, which make it more capable in extreme off-road conditions.
Price Difference
While the customized Thar Armada may cost more due to custom modifications, the modern Mahindra Thar comes fully loaded with features, offering better value for money for those who prefer a more modern, feature-rich SUV.
FAQs About the Thar Armada
Is the Thar Armada an official Mahindra model?
No, the Thar Armada is not an official Mahindra model. It is a customized version of the Mahindra Thar, inspired by the design of the classic Mahindra Armada.
How much does it cost to modify a Mahindra Thar into a Thar Armada?
The cost of modifying a Mahindra Thar into a Thar Armada can range from ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh, depending on the extent of customization.
Can I buy a Thar Armada directly from Mahindra dealerships?
No, the Thar Armada is a custom-modified vehicle, and you will need to work with aftermarket customization shops to create one. It is not available as a standard model from Mahindra dealerships.
Is the Thar Armada good for off-roading?
Yes, like the Mahindra Thar, the Thar Armada is excellent for off-roading, offering 4WD capabilities, enhanced suspension, and rugged design features that make it suitable for tough terrains.
What is the resale value of a Thar Armada?
The resale value of a Thar Armada depends on the quality of modifications and the condition of the vehicle. However, custom vehicles may have varying resale values depending on buyer preferences.
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The Thar Armada is a unique vehicle that combines the best of both worlds: the rugged performance of the Mahindra Thar and the nostalgic charm of the Mahindra Armada. While not available as an official Mahindra model, a custom Thar Armada offers a personalized and distinctive take on the classic SUV, making it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts and car lovers alike. With a price range of ₹16 lakh to ₹21 lakh, the Thar Armada is an attractive option for those looking to invest in a modified SUV that stands out from the crowd.