Mahindra’s SUV line-up is growing fast, and buyers are now asking a fair question: should they spend on the proven Thar Roxx, or hold their money for the rugged-looking Vision S that is often called the “Baby Scorpio”?
Both SUVs share a boxy, upright design language and a tough image. But underneath, they are built for very different buyers. This guide breaks down price, engines, size, features, off-road ability, and value so you can decide with confidence.
Important note for readers: The Thar Roxx figures in this article come from official and published specifications. The Vision S has not been launched yet, so its details are based on the concept shown by Mahindra, spy shots of test vehicles, and reports from leading Indian auto publications. We have clearly marked all expected or unconfirmed details.
Mahindra Vision S vs Thar Roxx
| Parameter | Mahindra Vision S (Expected) | Mahindra Thar Roxx |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Upcoming (concept shown Aug 2025) | On sale since August 2024 |
| Expected / Current Price | ₹10.5 lakh onwards (estimated) | ₹12.4 lakh to ₹23.5 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Launch Timeline | Early to mid 2027 (expected) | Available now |
| Platform | NU_IQ modular platform | Ladder-frame (shared with Scorpio-N) |
| Length | Under 4 metres | 4,428 mm |
| Wheelbase | Around 2,665 mm (reported) | 2,850 mm |
| Ground Clearance | Around 227 mm (reported) | Up to 235 mm (published) |
| Petrol Engine | 1.2L turbo-petrol (expected) | 2.0L mStallion turbo-petrol |
| Diesel Engine | 1.5L turbo-diesel (expected) | 2.2L mHawk turbo-diesel |
| Hybrid / EV | Hybrid and EV versions possible | Not available |
| Transmission | Manual and automatic (spotted in tests) | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT |
| Drivetrain | FWD, AWD possible on platform | RWD and 4WD |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Safety Rating | Not tested yet | 5-star Bharat NCAP |
| Main Rivals | Tata Nexon, Maruti Brezza, upcoming Renault and Tata SUVs | Force Gurkha 5-door, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos |
Price: Which One Is More Affordable?
Thar Roxx Price in 2026
The Thar Roxx starts at around ₹12.4 lakh for the base MX1 petrol manual and goes up to about ₹23.5 lakh for top 4×4 diesel automatic trims (ex-showroom). Mahindra has increased prices more than once in 2026, with some diesel 4WD variants getting costlier by over ₹50,000 after the May 2026 hike. In January 2026, Mahindra also added a black-themed Star EDN variant at about ₹16.85 lakh.
Vision S Expected Price
Most auto portals estimate the Vision S will start near ₹10.5 lakh, with top variants possibly crossing ₹15 lakh. Some reports even suggest a sub-₹10 lakh starting price for the base petrol version. Until Mahindra announces official pricing, treat these numbers as estimates.
Verdict on price: The Vision S is expected to be cheaper by roughly ₹2 lakh or more at the entry level. That makes it the better pick for budget-focused buyers, once it arrives.
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Engine and Performance
Thar Roxx Engine Options
The Thar Roxx uses two proven Mahindra engines:
| Engine | Power | Torque | Gearbox |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0L turbo-petrol (MT) | About 162 hp | 330 Nm | 6-speed manual |
| 2.0L turbo-petrol (AT) | About 177 hp | 380 Nm | 6-speed automatic |
| 2.2L diesel (MT) | About 152 hp | 330 Nm | 6-speed manual |
| 2.2L diesel (AT) | About 175 hp | 370 Nm | 6-speed automatic |
The diesel is available with a proper 4×4 system, which is what makes the Roxx a real off-roader. Reported real-world mileage sits between 12.4 and 15.2 kmpl, depending on engine and gearbox.
Vision S Expected Engine Options
Mahindra has not confirmed the Vision S engines. Based on spy shots and industry reports, the likely options are:
- 1.2L turbo-petrol, possibly with a strong-hybrid setup
- 1.5L turbo-diesel, likely the same unit used in the XUV 3XO, which makes about 117 hp and 300 Nm
- Electric version, hinted by a BE-branded steering wheel seen in a test mule
A test vehicle has already been spotted with an automatic gearbox, and other reports point to a diesel-manual combination too.
Verdict on performance: The Thar Roxx is clearly more powerful. The Vision S will focus more on efficiency and everyday usability, and its hybrid and EV options could give it a big running-cost advantage.
Size, Space and Practicality
The Thar Roxx is a much bigger vehicle. At about 4,428 mm long with a 2,850 mm wheelbase, it offers a roomy five-seat cabin and a commanding driving position.
The Vision S is being developed as a sub-4-metre SUV, which helps it qualify for lower tax in India and makes it easier to park and drive in crowded cities. Reports mention a wheelbase of around 2,665 mm and ground clearance near 227 mm, which is excellent for its class. Spy shots also show a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, which gives it a mini-SUV character similar to its bigger siblings.
Verdict on practicality: Pick the Thar Roxx for space and highway presence. Pick the Vision S for city driving, easy parking, and lower ownership costs.
Features and Technology
Thar Roxx Key Features
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment
- Panoramic sunroof
- Level 2 ADAS on higher variants
- Six airbags as standard
- Rear-view camera and hill-descent control
- LED headlights and tail lamps
Vision S Expected Features
Based on the concept and interior spy shots, the Vision S may get:
- Full-length panoramic sunroof
- A large touchscreen, reportedly around 12.3 inches
- Flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel
- Dual digital screens and vertical AC vents
- ADAS (a radar module has been seen on test vehicles)
- Possible ventilated seats, dual-zone climate control, and drive modes
Interior spy shots suggest the cabin shares design ideas with the Thar Roxx and Scorpio-N, so buyers can expect a familiar Mahindra feel.
Verdict on features: Both SUVs look well equipped. The Vision S could match or even beat the Roxx on screen size and tech because it is a newer design.
Safety
The Thar Roxx has a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating for both adult and child occupant protection, which is a strong confidence booster for families.
The Vision S has not been crash-tested yet. Mahindra’s recent products have scored well in safety tests, so expectations are high, but buyers should wait for official results before assuming anything.
Verdict on safety: The Thar Roxx wins for now because it has a proven rating.
Off-Road Capability
This is where the difference is biggest. The Thar Roxx runs on a ladder-frame chassis with an available 4×4 system, making it capable on rough trails, riverbeds, and hill roads.
The Vision S uses the new NU_IQ modular platform, designed to support petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric powertrains in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive layouts. It will likely be tough enough for bad roads and light trails, but it is not expected to match the Roxx for hardcore off-roading.
Verdict on off-roading: The Thar Roxx is the clear winner.
Pros and Cons
Mahindra Thar Roxx
Pros
- Proven 5-star Bharat NCAP safety
- Powerful petrol and diesel engines
- Genuine 4×4 off-road ability
- Available to buy right now
Cons
- Higher price, especially after 2026 hikes
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Bigger size can be hard in tight city traffic
Mahindra Vision S (Expected)
Pros
- Likely lower starting price
- Sub-4-metre size suits city use
- Possible hybrid and EV versions
- Fresh platform and modern cabin
Cons
- Not launched yet, details unconfirmed
- Expected to be less powerful
- Unlikely to match Roxx off-road
- No safety rating yet
Who Should Buy Which SUV?
Buy the Thar Roxx if:
- You need an SUV now and do not want to wait until 2027
- Off-roading, trips to the hills, or rough rural roads are part of your life
- You want strong performance and a proven safety rating
- Your budget is ₹13 lakh or more
Wait for the Vision S if:
- You mostly drive in the city and want easy parking
- You want lower running costs, or are interested in a hybrid or EV
- Your budget is closer to ₹10 to ₹13 lakh
- You like the rugged Mahindra look but do not need heavy-duty 4×4 hardware
Our Verdict
The Thar Roxx and the Vision S are not direct rivals in the traditional sense. The Roxx is a proven, powerful, and safe lifestyle off-roader that you can buy today. The Vision S is shaping up to be a more affordable, efficient, and city-friendly boxy SUV that brings Mahindra’s rugged style to a lower price point.
If you are ready to buy and value capability, the Thar Roxx is the smarter choice right now. If your priority is budget and everyday comfort, and you can wait until 2027, the Vision S is worth waiting for, but only make a final decision once Mahindra reveals official prices, engine specs, and safety results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Mahindra Vision S launched in India?
No. As of September 2026, the Mahindra Vision S has not been launched. It was first shown as a concept in August 2025, and the production model is expected in early to mid 2027.
What is the expected price of the Mahindra Vision S?
The Vision S is expected to start at around ₹10.5 lakh (ex-showroom), with top variants possibly going above ₹15 lakh. Official prices have not been announced.
What is the price of the Thar Roxx in 2026?
The Mahindra Thar Roxx is priced between roughly ₹12.4 lakh and ₹23.5 lakh (ex-showroom) in 2026, depending on the variant, engine, and drivetrain.
Is the Vision S a smaller Thar Roxx?
Not exactly. The Vision S shares a boxy, rugged look, but it is a sub-4-metre SUV built on the new NU_IQ platform, while the Thar Roxx is a larger ladder-frame SUV. The Vision S is often called a “Baby Scorpio” rather than a small Thar.
Which is better for off-roading, Vision S or Thar Roxx?
The Thar Roxx is far better for off-roading because of its ladder-frame chassis and 4×4 system. The Vision S is expected to be more focused on city and highway use.
Will the Mahindra Vision S get an electric version?
It is likely. The NU_IQ platform supports electric powertrains, and a test vehicle was spotted with a BE-branded steering wheel, which hints at an EV version. Mahindra has not officially confirmed it yet.
Which one gives better mileage?
The Vision S is expected to deliver better mileage because of its smaller engines and possible hybrid option. The Thar Roxx returns around 12.4 to 15.2 kmpl depending on the version.
Is the Thar Roxx safe for families?
Yes. The Thar Roxx has a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating and comes with six airbags as standard.
