The Mahindra Thar has long been a symbol of adventure and rugged off-road capability in India. With its iconic design and powerful performance, the Thar has carved out a niche for itself as the go-to SUV for off-road enthusiasts. While the Thar is currently available with petrol and diesel engine options, there has been growing speculation about the possibility of a Mahindra Thar CNG variant. Many buyers are increasingly looking for more economical and environmentally friendly options, which has led to interest in CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) as a potential alternative fuel for the Thar.
In this article, we’ll discuss the feasibility of a Mahindra Thar CNG version, its potential mileage, benefits of CNG, and whether Mahindra might introduce this option in the future.
Current Engine Options for the Mahindra Thar
The Mahindra Thar is currently available with two engine options: a petrol engine and a diesel engine. Both these options provide excellent performance, especially for off-road driving, but neither are known for fuel efficiency, particularly in city driving conditions.
Petrol Engine
- Engine: 2.0-liter mStallion 150 TGDi Petrol
- Power Output: 150 hp
- Torque: 320 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic
- Mileage: 15-16 km/l (claimed)
Diesel Engine
- Engine: 2.2-liter mHawk 130 Diesel
- Power Output: 130 hp
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic
- Mileage: 13-14 km/l (claimed)
The Thar is not known for fuel efficiency, which is understandable given its off-road capabilities and powerful engine options. However, with the increasing cost of petrol and diesel, many SUV owners are looking for alternative fuel options like CNG to lower their running costs.
Potential of a CNG-Powered Thar
The introduction of a Mahindra Thar CNG variant could potentially change the game for this popular SUV. CNG is not only a more economical fuel option compared to petrol and diesel, but it’s also a cleaner alternative, producing fewer emissions.
While Mahindra has not officially announced a CNG variant of the Thar, several factors suggest that it could be a possibility in the near future. Mahindra has already introduced CNG variants for some of its other models, such as the Mahindra Bolero Pik-Up, which is popular in commercial and rural markets. If demand for a CNG-powered Thar increases, Mahindra may consider adding a CNG option to the lineup.
Expected Mileage of Mahindra Thar CNG
If Mahindra were to introduce a CNG-powered Thar, the vehicle’s mileage would likely improve significantly compared to its petrol and diesel variants. Here’s what we can expect in terms of mileage for a potential Thar CNG variant:
| Fuel Type | Estimated Mileage (km/kg) |
| Petrol | 15-16 km/l |
| Diesel | 13-14 km/l |
| CNG (Expected) | 20-22 km/kg |
A Mahindra Thar CNG could offer around 20-22 km/kg, which is significantly higher than the mileage figures for the petrol and diesel variants. This would make the Thar a much more economical choice for buyers who use the vehicle primarily for city driving or long highway trips.
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Advantages of a CNG-Powered Thar
A CNG-powered Mahindra Thar would bring several benefits to buyers who are looking for a more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly SUV. Here are some of the key advantages of a Thar CNG variant:
Lower Running Costs
CNG is significantly cheaper than both petrol and diesel in most parts of India. With a potential mileage of 20-22 km/kg, a CNG-powered Thar would be much more affordable to run, making it an attractive option for daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike.
Environmentally Friendly
CNG is a cleaner fuel than petrol and diesel, producing fewer greenhouse gases and pollutants. A Thar CNG would have a smaller carbon footprint, making it a more environmentally responsible choice for buyers concerned about emissions.
Lower Maintenance Costs
CNG-powered vehicles tend to have lower maintenance costs compared to petrol and diesel vehicles. The engines run cleaner, which means there’s less carbon build-up, reducing wear and tear on engine components. This could result in fewer trips to the service center and lower long-term ownership costs.
Dual-Fuel Option
Many CNG vehicles come with a dual-fuel system, allowing drivers to switch between CNG and petrol. If Mahindra introduces a dual-fuel Thar CNG, it would offer the flexibility to switch to petrol when CNG is not available, ensuring that owners are not restricted to only using CNG.
Challenges of Introducing a Thar CNG
While the idea of a Thar CNG sounds promising, there are some challenges and limitations to consider:
Reduced Power Output
CNG engines generally produce less power compared to their petrol and diesel counterparts. This could affect the off-road capabilities of the Thar, which is one of its key selling points. Enthusiasts who buy the Thar for its off-road prowess may not be willing to sacrifice performance for fuel economy.
Limited Availability of CNG Stations
While CNG infrastructure is expanding in major cities, it is still limited in rural areas and smaller towns. A CNG-powered Thar might not be practical for buyers who live in areas where CNG stations are scarce.
Reduced Boot Space
Installing a CNG tank in the Thar could reduce boot space, which may be a concern for some buyers. Since the Thar is already compact, adding a large CNG tank could limit the vehicle’s cargo-carrying capacity.
Will Mahindra Introduce a Thar CNG?
While there’s no official confirmation of a Mahindra Thar CNG variant, the idea is certainly intriguing. A CNG-powered Thar could offer significant benefits in terms of fuel economy, running costs, and environmental impact, making it an attractive option for urban commuters and long-distance travelers.
However, challenges such as reduced power output and the availability of CNG stations may limit its appeal to off-road enthusiasts who prioritize performance over fuel savings. That said, with the growing demand for more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles, Mahindra could consider launching a CNG Thar in the future, especially as CNG infrastructure continues to expand across India.
For now, buyers interested in a CNG-powered SUV may have to wait and see if Mahindra decides to bring this option to the market. Until then, the petrol and diesel variants of the Mahindra Thar remain excellent choices for those seeking adventure, performance, and style.