A lot of off-road enthusiasts ask us about which is a better off-roader, Mahindra Thar or Suzuki Gypsy. Both are capable in their own ways. Thar has an advantage of a bigger engine with a good amount of torque to help it in tricky situations. Gypsy on the on the hand has an exceptional power-to-weight ratio which makes it very agile in tackling off-road obstacles.
From our experience driving these on off-road mountain trails, these are the off-road pro's and con's of both
1. Gypsy is better when it comes to tackling long steep inclines even slippery ones. Thar struggles in certain situations.
2. Thar has better rock-crawling capabilities than Gypsy.
3. Thar is better when it comes to water-wading capabilities. Gypsy struggles to keep water out of its engine, even with a snorkel.
4. Thar performs better in deep snow because of its weight and high torque. Gypsy struggles.
5. Thar performs better on icy roads, Gypsy needs a skilled driver to keep it from swaying and skidding.
6. Thar gets bogged in deep muddy situations, Gypsy gets away with most situations, keeping it from getting stuck because of its light weight.
7. Off-road recoveries are easier with a broken-down Gypsy than the Thar.
8. Thar could be an expedition vehicle, Gypsy is very uncomfortable.
Having said this, in the end it is the driver skill which makes most difference in an off-road situation. For us both are capable vehicles for off-road use and it all comes down to personal choice.
Let us know your feedback or share an experience.
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