When it comes to budget-friendly, five-door off-road SUVs, two names dominate the conversation — the Mahindra Thar Roxx and the Maruti Jimny. Both promise rugged looks, go-anywhere capability, and strong brand appeal. But which one delivers more value in its base variant? Let’s compare the Thar Roxx MX1 and Jimny Zeta Pro on paper.
Exterior: Bigger vs Compact
Both SUVs embrace the traditional boxy SUV silhouette, but the Thar Roxx has a clear size advantage. Measuring 4,428mm long, 1,870mm wide, and 1,923mm high, it’s significantly larger than the Jimny, which measures 3,985mm x 1,645mm x 1,720mm.
The Thar Roxx’s 2,850mm wheelbase and 226mm ground clearance surpass the Jimny’s 2,590mm and 210mm, respectively. While the Jimny falls under the sub-4m category, the Thar Roxx offers a more commanding stance.
Lighting tech also differs — the Thar Roxx features full LED headlamps as standard, while the Jimny settles for halogen units.
Interior: Space vs Simplicity
Inside, the Thar Roxx MX1 gets a dual-tone interior, while the Jimny Zeta Pro sticks with a simpler monotone setup. Both offer fabric upholstery, but the Jimny includes a rear camera, a handy feature missing from the Thar Roxx.
The Thar Roxx’s larger proportions give it an edge in space. It’s a five-seater SUV with 447 litres of boot space, compared to the Jimny’s four-seater layout and 208-litre boot. Clearly, the Thar Roxx scores higher on practicality.
Features: Tech vs Functionality
The Thar Roxx comes with push-button start, rear AC vents, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen, while the Jimny counters with electrically adjustable ORVMs, front seatback pockets, and wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay on its 7-inch infotainment unit.
Both get a four-speaker audio system, though neither offers telescopic steering adjustment.
Performance: Power vs Capability
Under the hood, the Thar Roxx boasts a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 160bhp and 330Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The Jimny, meanwhile, uses a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine making 103bhp and 134Nm, mated to a 5-speed manual.
However, when it comes to drivetrain, the Jimny holds the upper hand with its full-time 4WD, while the Thar Roxx MX1 only offers 2WD. The Jimny’s off-road prowess is well proven, even rivalling luxury SUVs in real-world challenges.
Price and Verdict
At Rs 12.25 lakh (ex-showroom), the Thar Roxx MX1 slightly undercuts the Jimny Zeta Pro, priced at Rs 12.32 lakh.
If you’re seeking a lifestyle SUV with genuine off-road DNA, the Maruti Jimny remains the purist’s choice. But for buyers wanting more power, practicality, and features at nearly the same price, the Mahindra Thar Roxx is the more versatile pick.
