Mahindra Thar Facelift: What’s New, What’s Changed, and What Still Works
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Five years after redefining India’s lifestyle SUV segment, the Mahindra Thar has received its first major update. The 2025 facelift may not change the Thar’s rugged character, but it refines it with thoughtful design tweaks, a more feature-rich cabin, and improved everyday usability — without altering the essence that made it an off-road favourite.
Familiar Silhouette, Sharper Details
At first glance, the new Thar looks unmistakably familiar. Mahindra has preserved its upright stance and boxy proportions, but closer inspection reveals subtle styling updates that freshen its appeal.
A revised front grille now wears a cleaner, body-coloured finish, flanked by dual-tone bumpers reminiscent of the Thar Roxx. The rear end gains a washer and wiper setup, both long-awaited upgrades for daily convenience. Mahindra has also added two new colour options — Battleship Grey and Tango Red — enhancing the SUV’s road presence while keeping its adventure-ready aesthetic intact.
The Thar continues with halogen headlamps and familiar 16-inch steel or 18-inch alloy wheels, retaining its no-nonsense, purpose-built identity.
A More Functional and Modern Cabin
Inside, the Thar’s updates feel far more significant. The layout remains largely unchanged, but every addition serves comfort and usability. The highlight is the new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, along with the upgraded Adventure Stats Gen II interface.
The steering wheel, borrowed from the Thar Roxx, feels more premium and modern. Power window switches have moved from the center console to the door pads — now with a one-touch down function for the driver. A sliding centre armrest with storage, A-pillar grab handles, rear AC vents, and an internal fuel-lid opener further improve day-to-day practicality.
Even small details like a dead pedal (automatic variants) and improved switch-gear enhance the driving experience, giving the cabin a more complete, contemporary feel while preserving the rugged charm that enthusiasts appreciate.
No Mechanical Changes — and That’s a Good Thing
Mechanically, the Thar continues with its proven set of engines and transmissions:
- 1.5-litre diesel (RWD)
- 2.2-litre mHawk diesel
- 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol
Transmission options remain a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic, offered in both RWD and 4WD configurations. This decision reflects Mahindra’s confidence in the Thar’s robust drivetrain — one that has already earned a reputation for reliability and off-road prowess.
While the powertrain lineup is unchanged, refinements in cabin comfort and convenience make the 2025 model better suited for everyday urban use without compromising its trail-ready toughness.
Pricing and Variants
The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift is available in AXT and LXT variants, priced between ₹9.99 lakh and ₹16.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Notably, despite the added equipment, the starting price is slightly lower than before — making it a more accessible entry into the Thar family.
| Variant | Powertrain | Transmission | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AXT RWD MT | 1.5 L Diesel | Manual | ₹9.99 lakh |
| LXT RWD MT | 1.5 L Diesel | Manual | ₹12.19 lakh |
| LXT RWD AT | 2.0 L Petrol | Automatic | ₹13.99 lakh |
| LXT 4WD MT | 2.2 L Diesel / 2.0 L Petrol | Manual | ₹15.49 – ₹14.69 lakh |
| LXT 4WD AT | 2.2 L Diesel / 2.0 L Petrol | Automatic | ₹16.99 – ₹16.25 lakh |
The Thar’s Evolution in Context
The 2025 Thar may not reinvent the formula, but it perfects the details. It bridges the gap between the hardcore off-roader and a modern lifestyle SUV, appealing to both adventurers and city dwellers alike.
With subtle design refinements, meaningful comfort upgrades, and a wider colour palette — all while retaining its trusted mechanicals — the new Thar strengthens its position as one of India’s most desirable SUVs.
For variant-wise ex-showroom and on-road price details, visit Carbae