Mahindra’s Thar Roxx is a bold, rugged off-roading machine with a solid fan following already. But recently, a strange issue has been causing a stir. In certain situations, Thar Roxx’s rear wheels are seen bouncing wildly while in reverse which is both alarming and confusing for SUV enthusiasts.
Let’s dig into what’s happening and whether it’s a problem unique to Mahindra’s Thar Roxx.
Thar Roxx’s Bouncing Issue: A Cause for Concern?
The recent viral videos have left people wondering if the Mahindra Thar Roxx is as rugged and reliable as advertised. Witnessing an SUV bounce with such force while in reverse may seem concerning to many, especially if you have paid a premium to get a robust, off-roading powerhouse.
Key Details:
- Problem: Rear axle “bouncing” when reversing.
- Common Occurrence: Seen in live-axle SUVs like the Thar Roxx.
- Cause: High torque combined with specific suspension setups.
If you have seen the videos or experienced this yourself, you’re probably wondering if the Thar Roxx is still worth it.
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Is There an Issue with Mahindra Thar Roxx’s Design?
To properly answer this, we need to understand the issue. Let’s break down why this happens specifically in SUVs during high-torque scenarios:
- High Torque & Low Traction: In off-road SUVs, when high torque is applied in reverse, the wheels lose and regain traction quickly, causing the suspension to “hop.”
- Suspension Setup: The Thar Roxx uses a live axle for stability and strength, a choice that can result in this bouncing effect when reversing on rough terrain.
This is a common challenge in SUVs with live axles, not limited to the Mahindra Thar Roxx. For instance, many classic 4×4 models experience similar behaviour when pushed hard in reverse.
Why SUVs Like Mahindra Thar Roxx Experience This Issue
If you’re still concerned about the Thar Roxx’s bouncing issue, it helps to understand that this is not unique to Mahindra or even to the Thar Roxx alone. Most SUVs built for off-roading experience similar “axle hop” due to:
- Design Choices: SUVs are designed for stability over smoothness, prioritizing durability over refined ride quality in rugged conditions.
- Suspension and Torque Mechanics: High torque paired with a solid rear axle is perfect for rough terrains but can create this bounce when reversing aggressively.
SUVs that emphasize off-roading performance tend to have stiffer suspensions and high-torque engines. This combination, while excellent for trails, does not deliver the smoothest experience in reverse on uneven ground.
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Can the Mahindra Thar Roxx Still Handle India’s Tough Roads?
The Thar Roxx is built for India’s rugged terrains, handling everything from city streets to rocky paths. But is this bouncing issue something you should be worried about?
Considerations:
- Impact on Durability: Frequent hard reversing could stress components, which affects the longevity of parts like the suspension and drivetrain.
- Safety: It’s unsettling, especially if you are reversing in a crowded area, to feel your SUV bouncing unexpectedly.
However, Mahindra has clarified that this phenomenon is not dangerous under normal driving conditions and is common among SUVs designed with similar setups.
Table: Pros and Cons of Thar Roxx’s Suspension Design
Pros | Cons |
Stable and durable on rough terrains | Bouncing effect when reversing aggressively |
Ideal for Indian off-road conditions | Can feel uncomfortable in urban environments |
High torque handling capabilities | Slightly reduced smoothness on bumpy roads |
Features That Make Thar Roxx an Impressive Off-Roader
Despite the occasional bounce in reverse, the Mahindra Thar Roxx has much to offer:
- Robust Engine: The Roxx Engine delivers the power for challenging terrains, ensuring high performance.
- Interior Comfort: The Thar Roxx interior is well-equipped for both city driving and outdoor adventures, making it a versatile choice.
- Versatile Variants: From entry-level to Thar Roxx top model, there’s something for every budget and requirement.
- Affordable Price: With the Mahindra Thar Roxx price starting at a competitive rate, it’s accessible for many SUV lovers.
Verdict: Is the Thar Roxx Worth It?
The Mahindra Thar Roxx remains a powerful, reliable SUV with strong capabilities tailored to Indian roads and beyond. Its minor quirks in reverse are a small trade-off for its rugged benefits. While the bounce is inconvenient, it doesn’t detract from the overall value and versatility the Thar Roxx offers.
If you’re ready to embrace the rugged side of driving, the Thar Roxx is a fantastic choice. Visit your nearest Mahindra showroom and experience this powerful SUV yourself.
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