Mahindra Thar Mileage

The Mahindra Thar is one of India’s most iconic lifestyle SUVs, known for its rugged off-road capabilities, bold design, and powerful road presence. First launched in 2010 and revamped in 2020 with modern features, it mixes adventure with comfort for both city and off-road driving. The mileage of the Thar ranges between 9 km/l to 15 km/l, depending on the variant, fuel type, and driving conditions. To know more about Mahindra Thar mileage, read along.

The Mahindra Thar is a lifestyle SUV that combines rugged off-road performance with modern comfort, making it a favourite among adventure seekers in India. It now comes with powerful petrol and diesel engine options, automatic and manual transmissions, and features like a touchscreen infotainment system, removable hard-top, and advanced safety features. Thar’s design is inspired by Mahindra’s original military jeeps, giving it a heritage charm with a modern twist. When it comes to efficiency, the mileage of the Mahindra Thar ranges between 9 km/l and 15 km/l, depending on the variant and driving conditions.

The Mahindra Thar comes in different variants; for each, the Thar petrol mileage and the Thar diesel mileage are different. Here are the mileage figures of the Mahindra Thar variants:

Note: User-reported mileages of Thar are an estimated average of different users of Mahindra Thar.

It is important to check the mileage of Mahindra Thar, as you cannot rely on ARAI-certified mileage (They are conducted in a controlled environment). The real-life mileage of Mahindra Thar is different from the ARAI-certified mileage and is affected by

Full-to-Full Tank Method (most accurate)

1. Prepare the Thar: check tyre pressure, remove unnecessary load, ensure oil/service are up to date.

2. Fill the tank to the auto-cut/stop point at a single petrol pump and note the odometer (or reset the trip meter).

3. Record the litres filled (if you prefer) and the starting trip reading.

4. Drive normally for 200–300 km (longer distance gives better accuracy).

5. Refill to the same auto-cut point at the same pump, note litres added and the trip distance covered.

6. Calculate: Mileage (km/l) = Distance travelled ÷ Litres added.

7. Repeat 2–3 times and take the average; log driving conditions (highway/city/4x4) with each run.

Using the In-Built MID (quick, but validate with full-to-full)

1. Before a run, reset the MID’s average fuel-consumption readout and the trip meter.

2. Start with a reasonably full tank so MID has enough data to average.

3. Drive for 50–100 km (MID readings stabilise after some driving).

4. Note the MID’s “average km/l” reading and the trip distance.

5. Cross-check by doing a full-to-full test the same week — note MID vs actual variance and apply that correction thereafter.

Note: Make sure to check Thar mileage on different terrains (off-road and highways), and under different modes (Eco mode or sports mode)

Thar’s mileage can be used in calculating fuel cost for the car. Understanding and calculating the fuel costs helps in budgeting and knowing the total running cost of the car. You can use a simple formula to calculate the fuel cost for the Mahindra Thar. The formula is:

• Fuel Cost = (Distance to be travelled ÷ Mileage) × Fuel Price per litre

Let us understand with an example how we can use the mileage of the Thar car to calculate the total fuel cost required.

Assume:

• Daily Ride = 50 km (to office and back)

• Riding Days in a Month = 20 days

• Total Monthly Distance = 50 × 20 = 1,000 km

• Average Thar Mileage = 10 km/l (real-world)

• Petrol Price = ₹105/litre (example, varies by city)

Step 1: Fuel Required in a Month

Fuel Needed = Distance ÷ Mileage

= 1,000 ÷ 10 =100 litres

Step 2: Monthly Fuel Cost

Fuel Cost = Fuel Required × Petrol Price

= 100 × 105

= ₹10,500 per month

So, the Thar driven for 50 km daily for 20 days in a month would require ₹10,500 worth of petrol as its running fuel costs.

Here are some quick and easy tips to improve Thar car’s mileage:

1. Use 2H Mode for Daily Drives

The Thar has a 4x4 drivetrain. Keeping it in 2H (two-wheel drive high range) for city and highway drives reduces engine load and saves fuel. Only switch to 4H or 4L when off-roading or on slippery terrains.

2. Optimise Tyre Pressure (Especially with AT Tyres)

Thar usually comes with all-terrain tyres, which increase rolling resistance if underinflated. Keep them at manufacturer-recommended PSI, especially before highway drives. Overly deflated tyres for off-road fun will drop mileage fast.

3. Soft Top vs Hard Top Effect

If you own a convertible soft top Thar, ensure the cover is properly fitted and not flapping at higher speeds, as it increases drag and fuel consumption. Hard tops are more aerodynamic and slightly more fuel-efficient.

4. Avoid Excessive Roof Mods

Many Thar owners add roof racks, spotlights, or jerry can holders. While they look rugged, they add weight and wind drag, reducing mileage. Use them only when needed for long expeditions.

5. Moderate Off-Road Usage

Off-roading in 4L mode or driving in sand/mud consumes almost double the fuel. Plan such drives smartly and avoid aggressive throttle inputs when climbing obstacles.

6. Diesel Owners: Use Low RPM Torque

Thar’s diesel engine has strong low-end torque. Driving in the 1500–2000 RPM band instead of high revs gives the best mileage without straining the engine.

7. AC Usage in Off-Road Conditions

Using AC while rock crawling or in slow off-road conditions puts extra load on the engine. Switch it off temporarily in such situations to save fuel.

The mileage (km/l) of the Mahindra Thar does not directly affect car insurance premiums, since insurers primarily consider factors like IDV, engine capacity, and claim history. However, in Pay-as-you-drive (PAYD) insurance, it is not the mileage per litre but the total distance travelled that influences premiums. Since the Thar consumes more fuel and is often driven less compared to commuter cars, this makes a noticeable difference under PAYD policies.

• High Fuel Cost = Lower Usage

Because the Thar delivers only about 10–15 km/l, its fuel expenses are higher than most regular cars. Owners naturally avoid using it for long daily commutes. In PAYD, this lower annual running helps you stay in a smaller kilometre slab, reducing the insurance premium.

• Weekend/Adventure Car Advantage

Many Thar owners use it mainly for weekend getaways, off-roading, or special trips rather than everyday driving. This limited use often keeps yearly running within 7,500–10,000 km, placing the car in a lower PAYD premium category.

• Mileage Determines Driving Behaviour

PAYD policies track how many kilometres you actually drive. Since the Thar’s lower km/l makes long-distance driving expensive, most owners restrict usage. This driving behaviour directly benefits the owner in PAYD insurance, leading to cost savings.