The Mahindra Thar has transformed from a capable off-road adventurer into a feature-packed SUV that equally appeals to city drivers. The new generation of the Thar, introduced in 2020, brought major improvements in comfort, safety, and design, making it more practical for all-purpose use. Buying a pre-owned Thar can offer the same iconic looks and off-road capability at a far more accessible cost. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before making the purchase—from the best model years and variants to go for, to ownership costs, key inspection tips, and smart upgrades that add more value. Whether you’re eyeing your first Thar or looking to upgrade, this guide will help you make a confident and informed decision.
Best Age of Used Mahindra Thar to Buy
The Mahindra Thar received a major update in October 2020, completely transforming its identity. While older models were known for raw off-road prowess, the 2020-onward version combines capability with modern tech, better ride quality, and a more premium cabin. This makes post-2020 models the best fit for buyers looking at both daily use and weekend getaways.
Depreciation Overview
The ex-showroom prices for the new-gen Thar (2020-present) range from ₹11 lakh to ₹17 lakh, depending on the variant and fuel type. Due to high demand and low availability, the Thar holds its value remarkably well, even in the used market.
| Age of Car | Depreciation | Expected Price Range (Base Petrol Manual Variant) |
| 1 year | ~10-12% | ₹10-₹11 lakh |
| 2 years | ~15-18% | ₹9.3-₹10.5 lakh |
| 3 years | ~20-25% | ₹8.5-₹9.5 lakh |
*Note: Prices depend heavily on location, mileage, and condition. Diesel automatic variants tend to command higher resale value.
Best Year to Buy
For the best value without compromising on features or warranty, target 2-3-year-old models (2021-2022). Here’s why:
- The car has passed its steepest initial depreciation.
- Most 2021+ models are still under extended warranty.
- You’re likely to get modern features like touchscreen infotainment, cruise control, and factory-fitted hard top.
- Limited off-road use in many urban vehicles means you may find Thars in pristine condition.
Best Used Mahindra Thar Variant to Buy
The new-gen Mahindra Thar is offered in three main trims: AX (now discontinued), AX(O), and LX. These are further available in petrol and diesel, with manual and automatic transmission options, and with soft-top or hard-top body styles. When buying used, choosing the right variant is key to getting the most out of your budget.
AX(O)-The Practical Choice for Off-Roaders
- Comes with dual airbags, ABS, ESP with rollover mitigation, hill hold, and hill descent control.
- 4WD with mechanically locking differential is standard.
- Ideal for buyers who want off-road capability with essential safety and convenience features.
- Available in both petrol and diesel, but mostly seen with manual gearboxes.
Why it’s good: Delivers the classic Thar experience at a lower cost than LX while still covering essential safety tech.
LX-The Best All-Rounder for Everyday Use
The LX variant is the most popular pick in the used market, especially for buyers who plan to use the Thar both as a city commuter and a weekend escape machine.
Comes equipped with:
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Cruise control and steering-mounted controls
- Factory-fitted hard top
- LED DRLs and alloy wheels (depending on version)
- Automatic transmission options
Used Mahindra Thar Petrol vs Used Mahindra Thar Diesel
| Feature | Petrol Thar | Diesel Thar |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo-petrol | 2.2L turbo-diesel |
| Power | 150 PS | 130 PS |
| Torque | 300-320 Nm (auto/manual) | 300-320 Nm (auto/manual) |
| Mileage (real-world) | 9-11 kmpl | 13-15 kmpl |
| Maintenance cost | Slightly lower | Slightly higher due to fuel filters etc. |
| Ideal usage | Urban drives, occasional getaways | Long tours, off-roading, better economy |
Used Mahindra Thar Ownership Calculator
The Mahindra Thar is built for durability and off-road resilience, but being a lifestyle SUV, it comes with ownership costs that reflect its rugged nature. Here’s what you can expect in terms of annual maintenance and long-term upkeep, excluding the purchase price.
1. Annual Service & Maintenance
| Component | Petrol Variant (₹) | Diesel Variant (₹) |
| Routine Service (Yearly) | ₹6,000-₹8,000 | ₹7,000-₹10,000 |
| Engine Oil & Filter | Included | Included |
| Brake Pads & Coolant | Minor extra costs | Slightly higher |
Diesel variants require more frequent attention to filters and fluids, especially if used for off-roading.
2. Tyre Replacement (Every 35,000-45,000 km)
- Tyre size: 255/65 R18 (LX variant)
- Replacement cost (Set of 4): ₹30,000-₹40,000 for standard all-terrain tyres
- Optional upgrade to premium A/T brands like BF Goodrich or Yokohama Geolandar may cost more
3. Battery Replacement (Every 3-5 years)
- Petrol: ₹4,000-₹6,000
- Diesel (higher capacity): ₹6,000-₹8,000
4. Insurance Renewal (Annually)
| Vehicle Age | Approximate Insurance Cost |
| 1-2 years | ₹25,000-₹30,000 |
| 3-4 years | ₹18,000-₹22,000 |
Comprehensive insurance is advisable given the Thar’s off-road use potential and repair cost for exterior parts.
5. Wear and Tear Replacements
| Part | Estimated Cost (₹) |
| Clutch Plate (Diesel Manual) | ₹12,000-₹15,000 |
| Brake Pads (Front + Rear) | ₹4,000-₹6,000 |
| Suspension Overhaul (if needed) | ₹10,000-₹15,000 |
| Wiper Set | ₹800-₹1,200 |
Average Yearly Ownership Cost (Excl. Fuel & EMI)
| Cost Head | Petrol (₹) | Diesel (₹) |
| Annual Service | ₹7,000 | ₹9,000 |
| Tyres (Annualized) | ₹9,000 | ₹9,000 |
| Insurance | ₹20,000 | ₹20,000 |
| Repairs & Consumables | ₹5,000 | ₹6,000 |
| Total (Est.) | ₹41,000-₹45,000 | ₹44,000-₹48,000 |
Upgrades for Used Mahindra Thar
The Mahindra Thar’s strong aftermarket support and modular design make it one of the most upgrade-friendly SUVs in the Indian market. Whether you’re aiming to enhance off-road capability or everyday comfort, there are several smart upgrades worth considering.
All-Terrain Tyres & Alloy Wheels
- Stock tyres work fine for daily use, but if you’re planning trails, upgrading to premium A/T tyres improves grip and durability.
- Wider alloy wheels not only elevate looks but also offer better road stance and handling.
Estimated cost: ₹35,000-₹60,000
Infotainment & Audio Enhancements
- Some used Thar models, especially from early 2020 batches, may come with basic infotainment systems.
- Upgrade to a larger touchscreen with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay or enhance the cabin with better component speakers or subwoofers.
Estimated cost: ₹15,000-₹35,000
Hard Top or Convertible Top Swaps
- If you’ve picked a soft-top model for budget reasons, aftermarket hard-top conversions are available for improved insulation and security.
- Likewise, custom convertible tops can add open-air flexibility.
Estimated cost: ₹25,000-₹50,000 (depending on quality)
LED Headlights & Fog Lamps
- Stock halogen lamps on base variants are functional but dim for night driving.
- Projector LED or HID kits enhance visibility without draining too much power.
Estimated cost: ₹6,000-₹15,000
Interior Comfort & Utility Upgrades
- Seat covers (leatherette or premium fabric), armrests, floor mats, and roof liners can uplift comfort and appearance.
- Additional accessories like mobile mounts, dash cams, or rear armrest with cupholders add practicality.
Off-Road Add-ons (For Enthusiasts)
- Front & rear metal bumpers
- Snorkel kits
- Underbody protection plates
- Tow hooks and winches
Estimated cost: ₹15,000-₹80,000 (based on gear)
Summary
The used Mahindra Thar is a solid pick for anyone looking to enjoy rugged off-road capability with everyday usability. Whether you’re buying it for long drives, occasional trails, or just to enjoy that commanding SUV presence on city roads, the Thar delivers a unique experience few other vehicles in this segment can match.
- 2021–2022 models offer the best balance between depreciation and modern features.
- The LX variant, especially in diesel automatic, is ideal for buyers who want comfort, safety, and low-effort driving.
- Petrol options suit low-mileage users who drive mostly within city limits, while diesel models offer better fuel economy and long-distance performance.
- Annual ownership costs range from ₹40,000–₹48,000, depending on variant and maintenance habits.
- With the right upgrades, from tyres to infotainment to off-road gear, you can personalize your used Thar to match your lifestyle perfectly.
FAQs about Used Mahindra Thar
Q. Is it worth buying a used Mahindra Thar?
Yes, especially the new-gen models (2020 onwards). They offer a mix of rugged capability and modern comfort. Plus, the Thar retains its value well, making it a good investment in the used car space.
Q. Which is better in the used market – petrol or diesel Thar?
If you drive mostly in the city or your annual running is low, the petrol Thar works well. For long-distance travel, highway performance, and better fuel economy, the diesel Thar is the more cost-effective choice.
Q. What is the mileage of a used Mahindra Thar?
A used Mahindra Thar delivers around 9–11 kmpl in the city and up to 13 kmpl on highways for petrol variants, while diesel variants offer 13–15 kmpl in the city and up to 17 kmpl on highways. Actual mileage may vary based on driving style and maintenance.
Q. Does the used Thar come with a warranty?
Yes, if purchased from a verified platform, many used Thar models come with extended warranty options, along with free RC transfer, inspection reports, and return assurance for peace of mind.
Q. What should I check before buying a used Thar?
Before buying a used Mahindra Thar, inspect for off-road wear underneath, check the condition of tyres and brakes, examine the hard-top or soft-top for damage, review the service history and warranty status, and look for any rust or water damage—especially in older models.
