Mahindra Thar Facelift (2025 Model) Overview :
The Mahindra Thar, India’s iconic 3-door off-road SUV, is gearing up for a significant mid-life facelift in 2025. Launched originally in 2020, the current model has been a bestseller in the lifestyle SUV segment, competing with rivals like the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha. The facelifted version draws heavy inspiration from the larger 5-door Thar Roxx (launched in 2024), incorporating updated styling, enhanced interiors, and advanced features while retaining its rugged off-road capabilities. Based on recent reports and spy images, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect. Note that as of September 16, 2025, the official launch has not yet occurred, but it’s imminent.
Launch Timeline and Availability
• Expected Launch Date : The facelifted Thar is slated to debut by the end of September 2025, with some sources pointing to September 25 or the latter half of the month. Earlier rumors suggested an early September unveil (around September 1), but recent updates indicate a slight delay to late September.
• Bookings and Deliveries : Bookings are expected to open shortly after the launch reveal, with deliveries commencing in October 2025, aligning with the festive season in India. This timeline could shift based on final testing and production readiness.
• Variants : It will likely be offered only in hard-top configurations, as Mahindra discontinued the convertible soft-top variant earlier in 2025. Expect 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrain options across multiple trims.
Design and Exterior Updates
The facelift maintains the Thar’s boxy, ladder-frame silhouette but borrows aesthetic cues from the Thar Roxx for a more modern and premium look .
• Front Fascia : A redesigned grille with double-stacked slats, updated LED headlamps featuring integrated C-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs), and a reprofiled bumper for better approach angles and a bolder stance.
• Side and Rear : Subtle changes include new alloy wheel designs (likely 18-inch options), but the overall side profile remains largely unchanged to preserve its off-road proportions. At the rear, expect revised tail-lamp signatures and minor bumper tweaks.
• Dimensions : No major changes anticipated; it should retain the current dimensions (approximately 3,985 mm length, 1,820 mm width, 1,844 mm height) to keep its compact off-roader appeal.
These updates aim to make the Thar more visually aligned with Mahindra’s newer SUVs like the XUV700 and Scorpio N, enhancing its road presence without compromising ruggedness.
Interior and Features
The cabin sees the most substantial upgrades, addressing feedback on comfort and tech from the current model. The facelift borrows heavily from the Thar Roxx to make it more family-friendly and daily-usable.
• Infotainment and Dashboard : A free-standing 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Mahindra’s AdrenoX connected car suite, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A fully digital instrument cluster (likely 10.25-inch) and a new flat-bottom steering wheel (similar to the Scorpio N) will replace the analog setup.
• Comfort Features : Revised center console with wireless phone charging, automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, and ambient lighting. Higher trims may include a 360-degree camera for easier off-road maneuvering.
• Safety and Tech Additions : Level-2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Other expected features include rear disc brakes, multiple airbags (up to 6), and a premium audio system.
• Overall Layout : The interior will feel more premium with soft-touch materials, but seating remains 4-seater configuration due to the 3-door body style.
These enhancements position the facelifted Thar as a more versatile lifestyle SUV, bridging the gap between pure off-roading and urban commuting.
Engine and Performance
Mechanically, the facelift sticks to proven powertrains with no major changes, ensuring reliability and strong off-road performance .
Engine Options :
• 2.0L mStallion Turbo-Petrol : 152 bhp, paired with 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.
• 1.5L mHawk Turbo-Diesel : 119 bhp, available in 4×2 configuration with manual/automatic options.
• 2.2L mHawk Turbo-Diesel : 130 bhp, offered in 4×4 setup with manual/automatic transmissions.
Drivetrain and Off-Road Capability : Retains the body-on-frame chassis, low-range transfer case, and locking differentials for 4×4 variants. Fuel efficiency is expected to remain similar (around 10-15 kmpl depending on engine and terrain).
No Hybrid/EV Variants : Unlike some upcoming Mahindra models, this facelift focuses on ICE (internal combustion engine) options without electrification.
The unchanged engines mean buyers get the same thrilling performance, with 0-100 km/h times around 10-11 seconds and a top speed of about 180 km/h.
Pricing and Competitors
Expected Price Range : Starting from ₹12.00 lakh (ex-showroom) for base variants, going up to around ₹18 lakh for top-spec 4×4 models. This represents a slight premium (₹50,000-₹1 lakh hike) over the current Thar, which is priced between ₹11.50 lakh and ₹17.62 lakh.
Competitors : It will rival the Maruti Suzuki Jimny (₹12.74-₹15 lakh), Force Gurkha 3-door (₹16.75-₹18 lakh), and even serve as a more affordable alternative to the 5-door Thar Roxx (₹14-₹22 lakh).
Summary :
The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift, set to launch by late September 2025, updates the iconic 3-door off-road SUV with a modern design inspired by the Thar Roxx, enhanced interiors, and advanced features. Expect a redesigned grille, LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs, and new alloy wheels. The cabin gets a 10.25-inch touchscreen, digital cluster, Level-2 ADAS, ventilated seats, and premium materials. Engine options remain unchanged: 2.0L turbo-petrol (152 bhp), 1.5L turbo-diesel (119 bhp, 4×2), and 2.2L turbo-diesel (130 bhp, 4×4), with manual/automatic transmissions. Priced between ₹12-18 lakh, it rivals the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha, blending off-road prowess with urban usability. Bookings open soon, with deliveries expected in October 2025.