If you've ever wanted to recreate the feel of a live concert while stuck in city traffic or crawling over a rocky hill, Mahindra has answered your prayers. The Thar Roxx, which already had a fanbase as loud as its exhaust note, is now available with Dolby Atmos. Yes, the very same spatial audio magic used by streaming services and premium headphones has made its way into the rugged off-roader.
But don't expect to find it in the entry-level models. The top-spec AX7 L variant is the only one that gets this upgrade, paired with a 9-speaker Harman Kardon setup. And because you'll need the tunes to play from somewhere, Mahindra has integrated the Gaana music streaming service. It's a bit like having your music festival, just with fewer queues for food.
A Bit More Than Just Beats
Mahindra hasn't stopped at the speakers. The Thar Roxx is arguably the most kitted-out lifestyle SUV in its segment. Highlights include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a fully digital 10.25-inch driver display, automatic climate control, wireless phone charging, cruise control, ventilated front seats, and even a panoramic sunroof, a first for the Thar badge.
Convenience aside, safety hasn't been left behind either. The vehicle features a 360-degree camera, six airbags as standard, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill descent control, and front and rear parking sensors. It even offers ADAS, a rarity among rugged off-roaders. In other words, it's the kind of car that'll crawl over rocks, but politely warn you about lane changes while doing so.
Performance And Popularity
Mahindra hasn't announced mechanical changes, so expect the same engine options, a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel, both paired with either a manual or an automatic gearbox. Power figures remain at approximately 152 bhp and 320 Nm for the petrol engine, and 130 bhp and 300 Nm for the diesel engine.
In response to high demand, Mahindra has ramped up production. If you've tried booking one recently, you'll understand why that matters.
Price And Rivals
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is priced between ₹12.99 lakh and ₹23.09 lakh, ex-showroom. That puts it squarely against the Maruti Jimny and the Force Gurkha 5-door. Though the Thar remains the most versatile of the trio, capable on trails, in traffic, and now, apparently, in acoustics.
Most Thar owners tend to experiment with aftermarket mods, particularly sound systems. But with this factory-fitted Harman Kardon setup offering Dolby Atmos, you might leave the door panels alone for once.
