We were expecting the new-gen Thar at Auto Expo 2020, but instead, we need to see the Suzuki Jimny. you’ll imagine our excitement when Maruti revealed it had been considering it for India.
Then, months passed, no spy shots were seen, the lockdown was enforced, and that we forgot all about the Jimny. Finally, at Independence Day 2020, Mahindra revealed the new-gen Thar, taking the automotive world by storm. the planning , which not only harks back thereto of its older cousin but also reminds you of a particular American off-roader, may be a hit with everyone.
And it’s this affection for the Thar that has made us revisit the Jimny. After all, both serve an identical purpose, and if the Jimny were to return to India, the Thar would finally have a true rival. Yes, we all know the Force Gurkha exists, but it’s only rivalled the Thar when it involves utilitarian purposes. The Jimny promises to serve lifestyle aspirations too.
So let’s take a glance at how the 2 compare on paper. But before we dive into the target , let’s analyse the subjective stuff: the looks!
Design
Both the Thar and therefore the Jimny sport similar boxy designs and draw inspiration from pre-existing SUVs. While the Thar’s shape could have you ever mistake it for a particular Jeep, the Jimny stands out on its own
But if it is the raw appeal that you simply are after, the Thar’s design is certainly more captivating. The Jimny also looks quite masculine and contemporary and hasn’t aged a touch , since it had been revealed a few of years ago. However, when Maruti does bring it to India, we expect it to show heads all day long. within the end, it’ll all come right down to personal preference.
One thing you ought to confine mind is that the Jimny, which is predicted to launch in India, are going to be an exclusive made-for-India five-door version, unlike the worldwide three-door version we saw at Auto Expo 2020. meaning it’s sure to grow in size.
So the Thar definitely has the Jimny covered when it involves engine options, engine power, and even the amount of cogs within the automatic drive . Does that hinder Jimny’s off-road business then? Well, that’s a subjective question that we can’t answer objectively without comparing the 2 side by side, but if international videos are to be believed, the Jimny’s tiny 1.5-litre petrol engine is enough for many terrains.
Drivetrain
So these are both off-roaders and a 4×4 system may be a must. And therein case, both cars claim to a partial 4×4 system which will be engaged when the going gets tough. Both have low-range transfer cases also , in order that they are quite evenly pegged therein department. the 2 even get a shift-on-fly feature that permits you to shift within the 4H no end .
And for when traction becomes seriously scarce, both cars get a brake locking differential — an easy system that cuts off power from free-spinning wheels and directs it to the wheels with traction. Now sometimes, even this won’t be enough and therein case, you will be more happy within the Mahindra Thar because it also gets a mechanically locking rear differential.
Dimensions
An off-roader’s dimensions are really important and if it doubles up as a life-style vehicle, these become doubly important. After all, you would like alittle compact off-road vehicle which will traverse tight trails but at an equivalent time, you would like an enormous enough cabin to seat your family and friends in comfort.
Takeaway
The Thar’s start means it’ll certainly cement its place within the lifestyle/off-road segment by the time the Jimny lands on our shores. While this comparison alone cannot define the clear winner without driving the 2 back to back, it does highlight the areas where they shine.