Designed for those who crave adventure and freedom, the Mahindra Thar appeals to young explorers, off-road enthusiasts, and urban trendsetters alike. The Thar has already made a remarkable entry into the Indian automobile industry due to its iconic design and the go-anywhere ability that suits well in the lifestyle SUV category.
The Thar offers a 2.0L turbo-petrol and a 2.2L diesel engine that can power its way through the city and off-road. Unlike mini-SUVs that prioritise affordability, this vehicle is geared towards adventure and comes with a 4×4 drive system, all-terrain ground clearance, and durable construction. Yet, luxurious interiors and tech functionality provide comfort and connectivity.
Although it may not be as fuel-efficient as the compact urban SUVs, the Thar has proven durability and low depreciation, as well as a decent resale value due to its cult following and the extensive service network of Mahindra.
When one does it as an adventure, there can be no competition to what a Thar can also give you in terms of experience returns. Read further to learn more about the ownership cost of the Mahindra Thar, including service schedule, mileage and service requirements so that you know exactly how to plan your journey.
Mahindra Thar: Fuel Type and Mileage Overview
Unlike city-oriented mini-SUVs, the Mahindra Thar is designed to cater to those who are more interested in adventure and off-road driving, rather than making compromises. It comes in two fuel options: a petrol version and a diesel version, both fitted with engines that are strong in power and torque-producing ability, as well as being dependable.
The two variants are available with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, providing the driver with the versatility needed to control the car. And with the 4×4 standard, the Thar can tackle dunes, rocky trails, and muddy paths without breaking a sweat.
| Fuel Type | Transmission | ARAI Mileage |
| Petrol | Manual | 10 kmpl |
| Petrol | Automatic | 9 kmpl |
| Diesel | Manual | 11 kmpl |
| Diesel | Automatic | 10 kmpl |
The Thar does not claim to be a fuel economy car, but it does respectable figures in terms of 9 kmpl on diesel and 11 kmpl on petrol, depending on the kind of driving it has undergone. Its rugged build and dependable drivetrain make it a long-term companion for those who value durability and adventure over daily commuting efficiency.
Real World Mileage Used for Calculations
The Thar is available in 2 engine options: a 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol (150PS/320Nm) and a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel (130PS/300Nm). The Thar comes equipped with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic, with 4×4 as standard, making it one of the hardcore off-road vehicles in its segment.
In real-world use, mileage is modest. The diesel manual achieved 12.0 kmpl in the city and 12.6 kmpl on the highway, while the diesel automatic achieved 11.3 kmpl in the city and 11.5 kmpl on the highway.
The petrol automatic was least efficient, at 7.0 kmpl in traffic and 9.3 kmpl on the open road. Depending on the driving mix, the Thar diesel manual delivered:
- 12.3 kmpl with a 50:50 city-highway ratio
- 12.5 kmpl with 25% city and 75% highway usage
- 11.8 kmpl with 75% city and 25% highway driving
With a generous 57-litre fuel tank, these figures translate to a practical driving range of around 700 km per refill under mixed conditions for the diesel manual variant.
Although the difference between the certified and actual MPG is noticeable, the tested numbers are reasonable, considering the Thar is an adventure-ready, heavy-duty SUV. The Thar is what we call a rugged machine, and its off-road potential and vehicle strength make it a top choice for those who favour experience and durability rather than cost savings.
Annual and 5-Year Fuel Cost Estimate
When comparing the petrol and diesel options of the Mahindra Thar, the cost of fuel emerges as a significant parameter in the overall cost calculation.
Considering the 10,000 km annual driving distance, we can calculate the monthly operating cost and compare it to other key aspects, such as fuel consumption, refuelling frequency, and long-term cost savings. Check out the table below:
| Variant | Mileage | Fuel Required (Annual) | Annual Fuel Cost | 5-year Fuel Cost | Fuel Cost / Km |
| Petrol + Manual | 10 kmpl | 1000 L | ₹90,000 | ₹45,00,000 | ₹9/km |
| Petrol + AMT | 9 kmpl | 1111 L | ₹99,990 | ₹4,99,950 | ₹9.9/km |
| Diesel + Manual | 11 kmpl | 909 L | ₹79,992 | ₹3,99,960 | ₹8/km |
| Diesel + Automatic | 10 kmpl | 1000 L | ₹88,000 | ₹4,40,000 | ₹8.8/km |
Note: The cost of fuel is assumed to be at ₹90 per litre for petrol and ₹88 per litre for Diesel (Delhi rates). Actual expenses may vary depending on location and fluctuating fuel prices. The AMT model also features a significantly lower running cost, with substantially higher long-term savings, especially for individuals who drive regularly or over long distances.
Mahindra Thar: Service and Maintenance Costs Over 5 years
The estimated cost of routine maintenance for the Mahindra Thar over a five-year period is ₹19,000–₹21,000. This includes regular servicing with replacements such as engine oil, air filter, brake fluid, coolant, and filter, as well as regular system checks. The first two services are usually free of labour charges, while the latter ones include paid parts and consumables.
These values are approximate and may vary by variant (Petrol or Diesel), transmission type (Manual or Automatic), driving conditions, and city of registration. Additional costs, such as GST, labour costs, and optional service packages, are not included.
Mahindra has a wide service network and a good supply of genuine parts, which help ensure the long-term reliability of the Thar. For buyers who value durability, performance, and lifestyle over pure economy, the Thar offers a compelling ownership experience with manageable upkeep costs.
Estimated Mahindra Thar Service Costs by Year
The table below illustrates a breakdown of the approximate service costs of the Mahindra Thar Petrol model in 5 years of ownership, including scheduled maintenance and common part replacements:
| Year | Routine Service | Additional Cost | Total Cost |
| 1st | Free | ₹1,601 | ₹1,601 |
| 2nd | ₹800 | ₹3,406 | ₹4,206 |
| 3rd | ₹800 | ₹2,033 | ₹2,833 |
| 4th | ₹800 | ₹5,284 | ₹6,084 |
| 5th | ₹800 | ₹2033 | ₹2,833 |
Insurance and Other Recurring Expenses for Mahindra Thar
Owning a Mahindra Thar means embracing rugged adventure, bold design, and dependable performance. It is one of the most powerful off-road SUVs, boasting a robust structure, powerful engines, and a standard four-wheel drive (4×4) drivetrain.
While not as fuel-efficient as hatchbacks, the Thar offers long-term value through durability, strong resale, and a loyal community. Third-party insurance is mandated by law in India. For FY 2023–24, the Thar’s average third-party premium was around ₹7,897, while comprehensive plans ranged between ₹29,000–₹37,000, depending on variant, fuel type, and add-ons.
Its higher premium is attributed to its large engine capacity and classification as an SUV when compared to smaller cars. Despite its premium insurance and fuel costs, the Thar maintains reasonable service expenses, estimated at ₹17,000 to ₹21,000 over five years.
Coupled with its resale value, build quality, and the expansive service network of Mahindra, the Thar offers a compelling ownership experience for buyers who prioritise capability and character over pure cost-efficiency.
Total Ownership Cost of Mahindra Thar (5-Year Estimate)
The following table explains the detailed description of the cost of total ownership of the Mahindra Thar when used over 5 years:
| TCO Calculation | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | Total |
| Insurance Cost | ₹17,000 -43,000 | ₹17,000 -43,000 | ₹17,000 -43,000 | ₹17,000 -43,000 | ₹17,000 -43,000 | ₹85,000 -₹2,15,000 |
| Fuel Cost | ₹90,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹90,000 | ₹45,00,000 |
| Tyre Change Cost | ₹0 | ₹0 | ₹38,000 -₹54,000 | ₹0 | ₹38,000 -₹54,000 | ₹76,000 -₹1,08,000 |
| Service Cost | ₹1,601 | ₹4,206 | ₹2,833 | ₹6,084 | ₹2,833 | ₹17,557 |
| Depreciation | ₹2,64,300 | ₹88,100 | ₹1,76,200 | ₹1,76,200 | ₹1,76,200 | ₹8,81,000 |
| TCO | ₹3,72,901 – ₹3,98,901 | ₹1,99,306 -₹2,25,306 | ₹3,24,033 -₹3,66,033 | ₹2,89,284 -₹3,15,284 | ₹3,24,033 -₹3,66,033 | ₹15,09,577 -₹16,71,557 |
| TCO/KM | ₹398 | ₹225 | ₹366 | ₹315 | ₹366 | ₹1671 |
How to Reduce Your Mahindra Thar’s Running Cost?
Here are the running costs of your Mahindra Thar with tips and insights:
- Drive Smart & Shift Right
Maintain steady speeds and avoid sudden acceleration. For manuals, shift at the proper RPMs for better mileage. Use cruise control on highways to save fuel. - Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure
Check tyre pressure often. Under-inflated tyres cut mileage and wear faster. Follow the PSI levels as specified in the owner’s manual. - Stick to Scheduled Servicing
Follow Mahindra’s service intervals. Use genuine parts, replace/clean air filters, and ensure correct fluids for efficiency. - Lighten the Load
Extra weight raises fuel use. Avoid unnecessary luggage and roof racks unless needed, as they add drag. - Install a Fuel Efficiency Monitor
Utilise OBD-II devices to monitor driving habits and fuel consumption. They help improve efficiency over time.
Summary
The Mahindra Thar is an aspiring SUV that promotes the elements of ruggedness and adventure-readiness with a contemporary touch to the lifestyle. It appeals to consumers who need a car with an assertive design, sufficient power to excel, and one that can navigate city traffic and rough terrain with ease.
The Thar is available in petrol and diesel variants, both of which come with strong engines and a standard 4×4 configuration. ARAI mileage is approximately 13 kmpl for petrol and 15.2 kmpl for diesel, whereas real-world figures are lower, ranging from 7 to 9 kmpl (for petrol) and 11 to 13 kmpl (for diesel), depending on the conditions.
Maintenance expenses are reasonable for a lifestyle SUV of its class. The 5-year estimated service cost for the diesel-manual variant is around ₹₹17,557. This covers scheduled servicing, fluids, and consumables. Mahindra’s vast service network and easy parts availability ensure a dependable ownership experience.
Overall, the Thar’s combination of off-road prowess, muscular design, and dependable engineering makes it an ideal choice for adventure enthusiasts and lifestyle-driven buyers. While it may not be the most economical option for daily commuting, it delivers unmatched value for those who prioritise capability, durability, and road presence.
FAQs about Mahindra Thar Running Cost Breakdown
Q. How often does the Mahindra Thar require servicing?
The Thar is recommended for servicing every 10,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first. Following this schedule helps maintain performance and avoid unexpected repair costs.
Q. Is the diesel Mahindra Thar more economical than the petrol in the long run?
Yes, generally. The diesel variant offers better mileage and lower fuel cost per litre, making it more cost-effective for users who drive long distances regularly.
Q. Does off-roading increase the running cost of the Mahindra Thar?
Absolutely. Frequent off-roading causes faster wear and tear on tires, suspension, and drivetrain components, which adds to maintenance and repair expenses.
Q. Does the Mahindra Thar require premium fuel or special additives?
No. The Thar performs well on regular fuel, and premium fuel or additives are not necessary. Additives can be used optionally, but they are not required for standard performance.
Q. Are there hidden running cost issues that Mahindra Thar owners should know about?
Yes, some owners have reported hidden running cost concerns, such as reversed diagnoses and withheld reports, along with electronic glitches like infotainment failures, sudden engine shutdowns, and Android Auto disconnections, which can lead to higher expenses and frustration if service is slow.
