The Mahindra Thar is not just a car; it is an emotion for many Indian driving enthusiasts. When you see a Thar on the road, its bold design and massive tires immediately grab your attention. However, the new generation Mahindra Thar is much more than just good looks and a powerful engine.

Beneath its rugged exterior, the Thar hides several smart, "secret" features designed to make off-roading safer and city driving easier. Many buyers overlook these details during a test drive.

If you are planning to buy this beast, here are the top 7 hidden features you need to know about.

1. The "Adventure Statistics" Display

One of the coolest features inside the new Thar is hidden within the infotainment screen and the driver's dashboard (MID). It is called the Adventure Statistics display.

• What it does: It acts like a digital co-pilot. It shows you the angle at which your car is tilting (Roll and Pitch). It also displays a compass, G-monitor, and torque usage.
• Why it matters: When you are off-roading on steep hills or uneven terrain, knowing your tilt angle prevents the car from toppling over. It keeps you safe by giving you real-time data.

2. Brake Locking Differential (BLD)

While hard-core off-roaders know about mechanical locking differentials, the new Thar comes with a smart electronic feature called the Brake Locking Differential (BLD).

• What it does: If you are stuck in mud or snow and one wheel starts spinning freely without traction, the BLD system detects this. It electronically applies the brake to the spinning wheel and sends the engine power to the wheel that still has grip.
• Why it matters: This allows you to get out of sticky situations without needing to press any special buttons. It works automatically to keep you moving.

3. Washable Interiors with Drain Plugs

This is a feature that truly sets the Thar apart from luxury SUVs. The interiors of the Thar are designed to get dirty.

• What it does: If your boots are muddy or you spill water inside, you don't need to worry. The floor of the Thar comes with removable drain plugs. You can literally wash the floor with water, and the water will drain out from the bottom.
• Why it matters: It makes cleaning the car incredibly easy after a beach trip or a muddy jungle safari. Plus, the dashboard switches are IP54 dust and water-resistant, so a little splash won't ruin the electronics.

4. Tyre Direction Monitoring System

Driving a large SUV can be tricky, especially when you are parked in a tight spot or starting an off-road trail. You might forget which way your tires are pointing.

• What it does: The instrument cluster (the screen behind the steering wheel) shows you the exact direction of your front tires.
• Why it matters: This prevents accidents in parking lots. It also ensures you don't accelerate in the wrong direction when navigating tricky rocks or narrow paths.

5. Roof-Mounted Speakers

If you look at the doors of the Thar, you won't find speakers there. Instead, look up!

• What it does: The speakers in the new Thar are mounted on the roof (the roll cage bar).
• Why it matters: Since the Thar has removable doors and a convertible roof, placing speakers on the doors would damage them during rain or off-roading. Roof-mounted speakers ensure you can hear your music clearly even when the top is down and the wind is rushing by.

6. Impact Sensing Door Unlock

Safety is a priority in the new Thar (which holds a 4-star Global NCAP rating). One hidden safety feature is the Impact Sensing Door Unlock.

• What it does: In the unfortunate event of a severe crash or accident, the car’s sensors detect the impact. The system immediately cuts off the fuel supply to the engine (to prevent fire) and automatically unlocks all doors.
• Why it matters: This feature is critical for post-accident rescue, ensuring that passengers are not trapped inside the vehicle.

7. One-Touch Lane Change Indicator

While this sounds like a standard car feature, it is very helpful for a vehicle of this size.

• What it does: You don't have to fully press the indicator stick for a lane change. A light tap flashes the indicator three times automatically.
• Why it matters: When driving a wide vehicle like the Thar on highways, this feature makes changing lanes smoother and warns traffic behind you without requiring you to manually turn the signal off.

Conclusion

The new Mahindra Thar is a perfect blend of old-school muscle and modern technology. While its engine power and 4x4 capabilities are famous, these hidden features prove that Mahindra has put a lot of thought into the driver's convenience and safety. Knowing these secrets will help you use your Thar to its full potential