The Mahindra Thar is arguably one of the most iconic off-road SUVs in the Indian automotive market. Its rugged design, excellent 4×4 capabilities, and modern features have helped it establish a strong presence among enthusiasts. Now, the legend is getting a fresh new look. The Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift has officially entered its testing phase, and spy shots have surfaced online, giving us a glimpse of what’s coming.
As Mahindra prepares for an exciting year in 2025, the facelift of the Thar 3-door is set to keep the adventure spirit alive while introducing much-needed updates to compete with evolving rivals and consumer expectations.
Let’s explore everything we know so far.
🔍 Why a Facelift for the Thar?
Since its major overhaul in 2020, the Mahindra Thar has been a consistent performer. However, with new competition like the Maruti Jimny, and rising consumer demand for modern interiors, advanced tech, and efficiency, Mahindra is stepping in with a mid-cycle update.
A facelift in 2025 aims to:
- Refresh the vehicle’s appeal
- Incorporate customer feedback
- Improve on-road comfort and in-cabin tech
- Comply with newer emission and safety norms
👀 What the Spy Shots Reveal
Recent spy images show a heavily camouflaged 3-door Thar undergoing road tests. While much of the design remains hidden, some key takeaways include:
- Revised front bumper with new contours
- Possibly reworked grille with horizontal slats
- Updated LED headlamps and DRLs
- New alloy wheel designs
- Tail-lamp redesign with LED elements
- Slightly tweaked rear bumper
Though the silhouette remains identical to the current version, these minor cosmetic updates will lend a more modern and aggressive appeal.
🖥️ Interior Updates Expected
One of the biggest areas of improvement in the facelifted Thar could be interior comfort and tech. While the current Thar is utilitarian in nature, Mahindra could elevate the cabin experience with:
- A larger touchscreen infotainment system (possibly 10.25-inch)
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster or semi-digital MID
- Premium upholstery options
- Automatic climate control
- USB-C fast charging ports
- Improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels
These updates will enhance daily usability, especially for those using the Thar as a lifestyle vehicle in cities.
⚙️ Engine and Transmission: No Major Changes Expected
The facelifted Thar is likely to retain its trusted powertrain options:
1. 2.2L mHawk Diesel Engine
- Power: 130 PS
- Torque: 300 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD and 4WD options
2. 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol Engine
- Power: 150 PS
- Torque: 320 Nm
- Gearbox: 6-speed manual / 6-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: RWD and 4WD options
Both engines are expected to be BS6 Phase-2 compliant, and the 4×4 variants will continue to offer shift-on-the-fly transfer cases, low-range gear, and mechanical locking differentials.
Mahindra might work on tuning for better fuel efficiency and smoother gear shifts.
🧭 Features That Could Debut in the 2025 Thar
With more urban users now opting for the Thar, Mahindra might include additional comfort and convenience features:
- Cruise Control with Adaptive Features
- 360-degree parking camera (top trims)
- Push-button start with keyless entry
- Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) [Possibly for future 5-door variant]
- Sunroof (less likely for 3-door, but a possibility)
🛡️ Safety Upgrades on the Cards
Given that Mahindra is increasingly focusing on safety (as seen with Scorpio-N and XUV700), the facelifted Thar could also see:
- 6 Airbags (from 2 currently)
- Rear parking sensors with camera
- Hill descent and hill hold control
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- ISOFIX child-seat anchors
These enhancements will not only improve safety but also help the SUV maintain high safety ratings under Bharat NCAP.
🧾 Variants and Customization
Like the current model, the facelifted Thar is expected to be offered in:
- AX (Base)
- AX(O)
- LX (Top-end)
Each variant may come in both RWD and 4WD options, petrol and diesel fuel types, and both manual and automatic transmissions. Expect Mahindra to also offer new factory accessories and lifestyle kits, such as:
- Adventure packs
- Roof carriers
- Off-road kits
- Custom seat covers
- Steel bumpers and auxiliary lights
📅 Expected Launch Timeline
Given that testing has already started, Mahindra is expected to launch the 3-door Thar facelift by early or mid-2025. The company could unveil the vehicle at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Expo or a standalone event and begin deliveries shortly after.
💰 Expected Price in India
The current Mahindra Thar 3-door is priced between ₹11 lakh and ₹17 lakh (ex-showroom). With the facelift and new features, the 2025 Thar facelift could be priced ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh higher depending on variant and drivetrain.
| Variant | Expected Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|
| AX RWD (Base) | ₹11.5 lakh |
| AX(O) 4WD | ₹13.5 lakh |
| LX 4WD Automatic | ₹17.5 lakh |
🆚 Competition Watch
The Thar facelift will continue to face strong competition from:
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny
- Force Gurkha (Updated)
- Upcoming 5-door Mahindra Thar
- Toyota Compact 4×4 SUV (in development)
With its updated design and better creature comforts, the Thar facelift could continue to dominate the segment.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift is more than just a cosmetic update — it’s a strategic move to retain dominance in the off-road SUV segment while appealing to a broader customer base. Whether you’re an off-roading purist or an urban adventurer, the 2025 facelifted Thar promises to offer a more well-rounded experience.
With modern features, updated styling, and no compromise on rugged DNA, the new Thar is set to create waves once again in the Indian auto market.
