Thar Petrol vs Diesel

Thar Petrol vs Diesel: 7 Critical Power, Mileage and Maintenance Differences

5/5 - (3 votes)

If you’re thinking about buying a Mahindra Thar one of the biggest decisions. You’ll face is choosing between the petrol and diesel engines. Both have their strengths but they’re quite different in real world performance, fuel economy and what you’ll spend on upkeep.

I’ve spent considerable time researching owner experiences, dealer feedback and hands on testing to put together this detailed comparison. Whether you drive mainly on highways, navigate city traffic or take your Thar off road. This guide will help you understand exactly what you’re getting with each engine option.

Understanding the Thar Engine Options

The current Mahindra Thar lineup offers two main engine choices. A turbocharged petrol engine and a turbocharged diesel engine. Both are modern, reliable powerplants designed specifically for the Thar’s rugged character and diverse driving conditions.

The petrol engine is designed for drivers who value responsiveness and simpler maintenance. The diesel option appeals to those who prioritize fuel economy and long distance capability. Neither is objectively better it really depends on your driving patterns, budget and personal preferences.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Mileage: Real World Fuel Economy

One of the most important factors when choosing between Thar petrol and diesel is fuel efficiency. This directly impacts your monthly expenses and overall cost of ownership.

The Thar petrol engine delivers approximately 15-17 kilometers per liter in real world mixed driving conditions. When you’re mostly driving in the city with heavy traffic expect closer to 13-15 km/l. On highway stretches with steady speeds, some owners report reaching 18-19 km/l.

City driving is where petrol engines tend to struggle slightly. The constant acceleration and braking in traffic wastes fuel. However, the petrol Thar responds well to driving habits smooth acceleration and maintaining steady speeds can noticeably improve your mileage figures.

Several owners have shared that their Thar petrol performs better once the engine is fully broken in after the first 5,000 kilometers. Initial mileage might be slightly lower but it stabilizes and improves as the engine settles.

The Thar diesel engine consistently delivers 18-22 kilometers per liter under normal driving conditions. City driving yields around 17-19 km/l. While highway mileage often reaches 22-24 km/l under ideal conditions.

Diesel engines are inherently more fuel efficient, especially over longer distances. If you regularly take your Thar on highway trips or have a long daily commute. The diesel engine’s efficiency becomes increasingly valuable. The higher fuel efficiency of Thar diesel means fewer fuel stops and lower per kilometer costs.

Diesel also shines in towing scenarios. If you’re occasionally towing a trailer or heavy load. The diesel engine’s superior efficiency helps you maintain better fuel economy compared to the petrol version under similar stress.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Power Delivery: Horsepower and Torque

Understanding the power characteristics of each engine helps determine which feels better for your driving style.

The Thar petrol engine produces approximately 150 horsepower and 300 Newton meters of torque. This provides a responsive, peppy driving experience with good acceleration from a standstill.

Petrol engines naturally produce power at higher RPMs. You’ll feel the Thar petrol engine come alive as you push the throttle. Especially between 3,000 and 5,500 RPM. The driving experience feels more engaging and interactive with quicker steering response and more immediate throttle feedback.

For highway merging, quick overtaking and spirited driving, the petrol Thar feels lively and eager. Some drivers prefer this character because it feels more connected to the road.

The Thar diesel engine produces approximately 150 horsepower but delivers around 350 Newton meters of torque. That extra torque makes a tangible difference in real world driving, especially in off road situations.

Diesel engines generate maximum torque at lower RPMs around 1,500 to 2,500 RPM. This means you get immediate pulling power without needing high engine speeds. Climbing steep hills accelerating from a standstill with cargo or navigating rough terrain feels effortless with the diesel Thar.

The tradeoff is that diesel engines feel slightly less revy at higher speeds. The power delivery is more deliberate and torque focused rather than creating a dynamic driving sensation. For some drivers, this steady, purposeful character is actually preferable because it feels more controlled and deliberate.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Service Cost: Maintenance Expenses

Long term ownership costs extend beyond fuel prices. Service and maintenance costs significantly impact your total investment.

Petrol engines typically have lower routine maintenance costs. Oil changes, filter replacements and spark plug services are straightforward and relatively inexpensive.

Regular servicing intervals for the Thar petrol are typically every 10,000 kilometers or every 6 months, whichever comes first. During these services you’ll spend less compared to diesel maintenance. Parts like spark plugs, oxygen sensors and petrol fuel filters are moderately priced.

Major repairs to petrol engines are also generally less expensive. If you need injector cleaning, valve maintenance or other common issues. Petrol service centers often charge less due to simpler fuel system components.

However, petrol engines in high mileage scenarios might require more frequent valve cleaning due to carbon buildup. Which is an additional cost to consider if you plan to keep your Thar long term.

Diesel engines require more specialized maintenance. Service costs are higher due to the complexity of diesel fuel systems and injectors.

Diesel Thar servicing costs approximately 20 30% more than petrol during regular maintenance visits. Oil changes use diesel specific lubricants fuel filters require more frequent replacement and diesel injectors need periodic cleaning.

Servicing intervals for diesel are similar every 10,000 kilometers or 6 months. However, diesel fuel systems are more sensitive to fuel quality. Using contaminated or poor quality diesel can lead to injector problems, requiring professional cleaning or replacement. which significantly increases costs.

The advantage is that diesel engines. When properly maintained, tend to last longer and require fewer major repairs throughout their lifespan. The durability factor often offsets the higher initial maintenance costs over a vehicle’s lifetime.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Reliability: Long Term Performance

Reliability is crucial when choosing your Thar engine option. Both engines have proven themselves dependable but they exhibit different reliability characteristics.

The Thar petrol engine is extremely reliable when maintained according to schedule. It’s more forgiving of driving habits and fuel quality variations. You can tolerate occasional missed oil changes or fuel quality lapses better with petrol.

Common issues reported by Thar petrol owners are minimal and usually related to carbon buildup over very high mileage. Some owners mention occasional rough idle if servicing is skipped. But these are easily resolved with proper maintenance.

The petrol Thar is an excellent choice if you want a low fuss, straightforward ownership experience. The engine is robust and doesn’t demand obsessive attention to detail.

Thar diesel engines are equally reliable but require more disciplined maintenance and fuel quality awareness. Using quality diesel from reputable pumps is essential for long term reliability.

Diesel Thar owners report excellent engine longevity when proper servicing is maintained. Some owners with well maintained diesel Thars have crossed 200,000 kilometers with minimal major repairs a testament to diesel durability.

The primary reliability concern with diesel is fuel contamination or water in the fuel tank. If you consistently use low quality diesel or neglect the fuel filter replacements. You’ll face injector problems. With quality fuel and regular servicing, diesel Thars prove extremely reliable.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Running Cost Analysis

Let’s break down the real monthly and annual costs you’ll face with each engine option.

Cost FactorThar PetrolThar Diesel
Monthly Fuel (1,500 km)₹4,500–5,500₹3,500–4,200
Annual Servicing Cost₹6,000–8,000₹8,000–10,500
Tire & Brake WearModerateModerate
Oil Change (6 month)₹800–1,200₹1,000–1,500
Total Annual Running (10,000 km)₹66,000–75,000₹54,000–64,000

Note: Costs vary based on fuel prices, service center location, driving habits and current market rates.

The data shows that Thar diesel has a clear advantage in total running costs. Especially if you drive more than 15,000 kilometers monthly. The fuel savings compound significantly over a year.

However, petrol’s lower maintenance costs partially offset this advantage. The gap widens in diesel’s favor once your annual mileage exceeds 20,000 kilometers.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Performance in Different Scenarios

For city driving with frequent stops and starts. The Thar petrol feels slightly more engaging. The responsive throttle makes navigating traffic easier and you won’t miss the diesel’s torque advantage in urban conditions.

However, the diesel Thar’s low end torque can actually be beneficial in crowded traffic, providing smooth acceleration from standstill without hunting for gears. Both handle city driving competently.

Winner for City: Petrol edges ahead due to better throttle response and lower maintenance costs for stop and go driving.

On highways, the diesel Thar demonstrates its expertise. The superior fuel efficiency means you stop for fuel less frequently. The steady, torque rich power delivery creates a relaxed cruising experience.

The petrol Thar is perfectly capable on highways but you’ll refuel more often and experience higher fuel costs. However, some drivers appreciate the petrol’s more engaging character during long drives.

Winner for Highway: Diesel due to outstanding fuel economy and reduced fuel stop frequency.

The diesel Thar’s abundant low end torque makes it exceptional for off road trails. Power is instantly available at lower RPMs perfect for crawling over rocks or climbing steep inclines.

The petrol Thar is also competent off road and handles most trails capably. However, you might need to work the engine harder by revving it more to achieve similar performance.

Winner for Off Road: Diesel due to superior torque and effortless power delivery in challenging terrain.

If you occasionally tow a trailer or cargo. The diesel Thar is the superior choice. The torque advantage means better control and stability while towing plus better fuel economy under load.

The petrol Thar can handle light towing but will consume more fuel and strain the engine more noticeably.

Winner for Towing: Diesel for better control and efficiency.

Thar Petrol Problems vs Thar Diesel Problems

Understanding common issues helps you make an informed decision.

Carbon Buildup: After 60,000 80,000 kilometers, some petrol Thar owners report rough idle or slight hesitation due to carbon accumulation in the combustion chamber. Regular fuel injector cleaning prevents this.

Oil Consumption: Very rarely, some petrol engines show slightly higher oil consumption in hot climates, requiring more frequent top ups between oil changes.

Knock Sensor Sensitivity: Occasionally, using low octane fuel can trigger knock sensor warnings though this is easily avoided by using recommended fuel grades.

Cold Start Difficulty: In very cold weather diesel Thars might be slower to start due to fuel viscosity though modern engines handle this better than older diesels.

Fuel Filter Maintenance: Diesel Thars require more frequent fuel filter changes to prevent injector clogging. Especially if exposed to dusty conditions or poor fuel quality.

DPF Regeneration: Newer diesel Thars have Diesel Particulate Filters requiring periodic regeneration. City driving that doesn’t reach adequate engine temperatures can require manual intervention. Though this is rare with proper maintenance.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Resale Value

When you eventually sell or trade your Thar engine choice affects resale value.

Diesel Thars typically command a 5-10% price premium in the used market due to superior fuel economy and durability perception. Buyers seeking long term ownership often prefer diesel despite the higher upfront cost.

Petrol Thars have good resale value but typically fetch slightly less. However, they attract buyers prioritizing lower initial purchase price and simpler maintenance so finding buyers isn’t difficult.

The resale value gap widens if your Thar has very high mileage. A diesel Thar with 150,000 kilometers holds value better than a petrol equivalent.

Is Thar Petrol Good for Daily Use?

Yes, the Thar petrol is excellent for daily use. Particularly if you drive fewer than 15,000 kilometers monthly in urban environments. The responsive character makes city driving enjoyable and maintenance is straightforward.

The petrol Thar is ideal if you value simplicity. Don’t want to worry about fuel quality and appreciate immediate throttle response. Many city based Thar owners choose petrol specifically for these reasons and report complete satisfaction.

The only consideration is accepting slightly higher fuel costs. If monthly fuel expenses are manageable within your budget, petrol is a great choice for daily driving.

Is Thar Diesel Good for Long Drives?

Absolutely The Thar diesel excels at long distance highway driving. The fuel efficiency means you can cover 500+ kilometers on a single tank, dramatically reducing fuel stops during road trips.

The diesel engine’s steady economical character makes long drives less fatiguing on your fuel budget. If you frequently take your Thar on highway adventures or have a long daily commute, diesel is the logical choice.

The diesel Thar’s durability also appeals to those planning to keep their vehicle for many years while racking up significant mileage.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel

Best Thar Engine Option: Making Your Choice

Choosing between Thar petrol and diesel ultimately depends on your specific circumstances.

  • You primarily drive in cities with heavy traffic
  • Your annual mileage is under 15,000 kilometers
  • You prefer simpler maintenance and lower service costs
  • You value responsive, engaging driving feel
  • You’re budget conscious and want the lowest purchase price
  • You don’t want to worry about fuel quality

  • You drive more than 20,000 kilometers annually
  • You frequently take highway trips
  • You plan to keep your Thar for many years
  • You occasionally tow cargo or drive off road
  • You want maximum fuel efficiency and lower running costs
  • You’re willing to invest slightly more in maintenance
  • You value better resale value long term

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Buyer Guide: Final Recommendations

For the average buyer the decision comes down to driving patterns and budget.

If your primary use is weekend adventures and occasional city driving petrol works beautifully. The lower purchase price, straightforward ownership and engaging driving character make it compelling.

If your lifestyle involves regular long distance travel, high annual mileage or you’re planning a five year plus ownership journey, diesel becomes increasingly attractive. The fuel savings and durability justify the higher upfront cost.

Consider your fuel budget carefully. Even a modest fuel cost difference multiplies dramatically over thousands of kilometers. A diesel Thar saves approximately ₹800-1,200 monthly compared to petrol for average driving, translating to ₹10,000-15,000 annually.

Thar Petrol vs Diesel Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Regardless of your engine choice, proper maintenance is crucial.

  • Follow the recommended 10,000 kilometer service interval strictly
  • Use fuel with the recommended octane rating (usually 91 octane minimum)
  • Perform fuel injector cleaning every 40,000 50,000 kilometers
  • Check oxygen sensors regularly for peak efficiency
  • Use quality, branded motor oil meeting specifications

  • Never skip fuel filter replacements change every 20,000 kilometers
  • Always refuel at reputable pumps with quality diesel
  • Maintain proper engine oil levels and change intervals without fail
  • Have the fuel injectors professionally cleaned every 60,000-80,000 kilometers
  • Monitor the water separator in fuel tank to prevent contamination
  • Keep fuel tank relatively full to prevent sediment buildup

Mahindra Thar Petrol vs Diesel 2025: What’s New

Recent updates to the Thar lineup have brought improved efficiency to both engine options. Newer petrol versions feature advanced fuel injection technology improving mileage by approximately 1-2 km/l compared to earlier variants.

Diesel engines now come with improved DPF systems requiring less frequent cleaning. Both engines have refined noise and vibration characteristics making them quieter and more refined than previous generations.

The latest Thar petrol and diesel models also feature better insulation and damping creating a more pleasant cabin experience during highway drives.

Personal Opinion and Final Thoughts

After analyzing real owner experiences, maintenance records and performance data. I believe both engines are excellent choices. They’re just excellent for different reasons.

The Thar petrol is the answer for drivers who want simplicity, lower initial cost and engaging daily driving. It’s perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy the mechanical connection to their vehicle and don’t mind visiting fuel stations more frequently.

The Thar diesel is the answer for pragmatic drivers focused on total cost of ownership, frequent highway travel and long term ownership plans. The financial benefits accumulate substantially over years of ownership.

Personally, if I drove the Thar primarily on highways and planned to keep it for five years diesel would be my choice. The cumulative fuel savings alone would justify the premium, plus I’d enjoy better resale value.

However, if I lived in a city and drove casually without extreme mileage requirements. I’d choose petrol for its simplicity and lower maintenance complexity.

The Thar is an exceptional vehicle platform and either engine choice ensures you’ll get a capable, reliable companion for years to come. Make your decision based on honest assessment of your driving patterns, budget constraints and long term ownership plans you can’t go wrong either way.

FAQs Thar Petrol vs Diesel

The Thar diesel delivers approximately 18-22 km/l while petrol achieves 15-17 km/l in mixed conditions. Diesel superiority becomes more pronounced on highways where it can reach 22-24 km/l. The efficiency gap means diesel saves significant fuel costs over time especially for high mileage drivers.

The Thar petrol is slightly better for city driving because the responsive throttle makes navigating traffic easier and the simpler maintenance costs less. However, diesel’s low end torque also works well in stop and go conditions. Your personal preference for driving feel matters more than raw capability in cities.

Thar diesel maintenance costs approximately 20 30% more than petrol. Annual servicing runs ₹8,000 10,500 for diesel versus ₹6,000-8,000 for petrol. However, diesel engines superior durability often offsets these higher costs over extended ownership periods through fewer major repairs.

At 20,000 kilometers annually diesel becomes the financially smarter choice. The fuel savings of ₹10,000 15,000 yearly, plus lower per kilometer operating costs, combine to make diesel more economical despite higher maintenance expenses.

Thar diesel typically commands a 5-10% higher resale value in the used market. Buyers appreciate diesel’s superior fuel economy and durability reputation. This advantage increases with vehicle age and mileage, making diesel the better long term investment.

Thar petrol occasionally experiences carbon buildup after 60,000+ kilometers. Thar diesel requires strict fuel quality maintenance and more frequent fuel filter changes. Both engines prove extremely reliable with proper servicing issues are preventable through disciplined maintenance habits.

Avatar of Aryan Deepak
Aryan Deepak

Aryan Deepak — car lover, tech explorer and founder of TharCar.com. He shares honest car reviews, latest updates and expert insights on new car models, prices and auto trends across India. Helping readers choose the right car with confidence

Similar Posts