The Complete Guide to Thar vs. Jimny: Custom Mods, Pricing & Road Presence
Published by Torquebear Admin on Jul 08, 2025
If you're considering a lifestyle 4x4 vehicle in India, you're likely torn between two iconic names: the Mahindra Thar and the Maruti Suzuki Jimny. Both offer serious off-road capabilities, a growing aftermarket scene, and undeniable road presence. But which one is really right for you?
This blog breaks down the comparison into custom modifications, pricing (stock & mods), and the all-important road presence to help you make a confident choice.
1. Design Philosophy: Rugged vs. Compact
🛻 Mahindra Thar
-
Bold, muscular stance with wide fenders
-
Short wheelbase = serious off-road angles
-
Two-door design gives it a Jeep Wrangler feel
🚙 Maruti Jimny
-
Compact, boxy design with classic 80s SUV charm
-
Available only in a 5-door variant in India
-
Lightweight = nimble in city and trail
🟩 Verdict:Thar wins for a bold, head-turning street presence. Jimny scores with subtle retro styling and everyday practicality.
2. Custom Modifications: What Can You Do?
🔧 Popular Thar Mods
-
2-inch suspension lift with MT tyres
-
Off-road bumpers and bash plates
-
LED light bars, snorkels, winches
-
Convertible soft tops, custom interiors
-
Premium infotainment & leather seats
🛠️ Popular Jimny Mods
-
Roof racks and storage ladders
-
Lightweight overlanding setups (rooftop tents, awnings)
-
Alloy wheels, AT tyres, lift kits (modest due to GVW limits)
-
Custom switch panels, dash-mounted gadgets
-
Urban skirting kits, DRLs, and grille upgrades
🟩 Verdict:Thar has a more mature mod market. Jimny is catching up quickly, especially for overlanding and soft-roading setups.
3. Pricing Comparison (Base + Mods)
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | Typical Mod Budget (₹) | Total Build Cost (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thar RWD Petrol MT | 11.25 L | 2–4 L | 13–15 L |
| Thar 4x4 Diesel AT | 17.60 L | 3–5 L | 20–22 L |
| Jimny Zeta MT | 12.74 L | 1.5–2.5 L | 14–15 L |
| Jimny Alpha AT (Dual Tone) | 14.95 L | 1.5–3 L | 16–18 L |
💡 Note: Thar modifications often involve heavier components and off-road performance gear. Jimny mods lean toward lifestyle and light adventure.
4. Road Presence: Who Gets Noticed More?
🚦 Thar:
-
Commands attention on the road
-
Taller, wider, and more aggressive
-
Gets nods from SUV and Jeep fans alike
🛤 Jimny:
-
More of a “cult classic” appeal
-
Turns heads in urban settings and among enthusiasts
-
Easier to drive, park, and use daily without intimidating others
🟩 Verdict:Thar wins in visual dominance. Jimny is more relatable, quirky, and versatile.
5. Usage Fitment: Who Should Buy What?
| Use Case | Thar ✅ / ❌ | Jimny ✅ / ❌ |
|---|---|---|
| Daily City Commute | ❌ | ✅ |
| Hardcore Off-Road Trails | ✅ | ✅ (lighter duty) |
| Highway Touring | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Solo Overlanding | ⚠️ | ✅ |
| Family Usage (4-5 persons) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Modding & Personalization | ✅ | ✅ |
🟩 Verdict:Jimny offers better practicality for urban India and long solo trips. Thar is unbeatable if you're building a trail-dominating beast.
6. Fuel Efficiency & Running Costs
| Metric | Thar (Diesel 4x4) | Jimny (Petrol 5MT) |
|---|---|---|
| Real-world mileage | 11–13 km/l | 14–16 km/l |
| Service cost (per year) | ₹9,000–₹12,000 | ₹5,000–₹7,000 |
| Tyre Replacement | ₹40,000–₹80,000 (MT) | ₹25,000–₹40,000 (AT) |
🟩 Verdict:Jimny is lighter on the pocket, both at the pump and the garage.
Final Thoughts: Thar or Jimny?
Choose Thar if:
✅ You love bold road presence
✅ You plan serious off-roading
✅ You want a rugged, lifestyle statement
Choose Jimny if:
✅ You need a daily drivable 4x4
✅ You're into solo travel or light overlanding
✅ You want great mod potential without the bulk
 (5).jpg)
