Mahindra’s blockbuster SUV, the Thar, is gearing up for a mid-cycle refresh, and the anticipation in the Indian auto market is palpable. Spotted recently at a dealership yard, the facelifted Thar doesn’t stray too far from its rugged roots, but Mahindra is clearly keen on keeping the lifestyle SUV relevant in 2025 with some timely upgrades—both cosmetic and tech-driven.
The Thar has carved out a cult following among off-road enthusiasts and urban buyers alike. The challenge for Mahindra is to freshen things up without diluting its identity. From what we know so far, that’s exactly what the facelift will attempt.
Exterior Updates
The 2025 Thar facelift will hold on to its iconic proportions—boxy stance, wide fenders, and upright front—but with a few touch-ups. Expect a redesigned front grille, tweaked bumper, and minor styling changes that add freshness without disrupting the Thar’s personality. Spy shots confirm that Mahindra isn’t reinventing the wheel here; rather, it’s fine-tuning the familiar recipe.
Buyers shouldn’t expect drastic sheet-metal changes, but sharper details and a cleaner front fascia should help distinguish the facelift from the current model on the road.
Interior Refresh
Inside, the most noticeable change will be the larger touchscreen infotainment system, borrowed from the recently launched Thar Roxx. This new unit is expected to support wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, giving the Thar a more modern and connected feel.
A new steering wheel, again shared with the Thar Roxx, will also make its way into the facelift. While the cabin layout won’t change much, these upgrades should make the Thar more appealing to city-focused buyers who want ruggedness without missing out on convenience.
One point of concern: the infotainment system on the Roxx reportedly had bugs in its early run. If Mahindra has ironed out those glitches for the facelift, that would be a crucial win for user experience.
Mechanical Bits: Same Engines, Same Power
Under the hood, Mahindra isn’t fixing what isn’t broken. The engine line-up remains unchanged:
| Engine Option | Power Output | Torque | Gearbox Options | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Diesel | 116 bhp | 300 Nm | 6-speed MT/AT | RWD / 4×4 |
| 2.2L Diesel | 130 bhp | 300 Nm | 6-speed MT/AT | RWD / 4×4 |
| 2.0L Turbo Petrol | 150 bhp | 300–320 Nm | 6-speed MT/AT | RWD / 4×4 |
These proven engines, paired with manual and torque-converter automatic options, will continue to be the backbone of the Thar.
The one major change enthusiasts are hoping for? An upgrade from hydraulic steering to electronic power steering (EPS). The current setup, while rugged, feels heavy in city driving. An EPS unit would improve usability in urban conditions, where a growing chunk of Thars now live. If Mahindra delivers on this, it would be one of the most significant real-world improvements of the facelift.
Positioning and Market Strategy
Mahindra has a busy year ahead with facelifts planned for the XUV700, Bolero, and Bolero Neo, but the Thar remains a crown jewel in its SUV portfolio. With the facelift, Mahindra seems to be playing it safe—no radical changes, but enough updates to keep it fresh against rising competition from the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and Force Gurkha.
Pricing is expected to stay close to the current range, which starts around ₹11 lakh (ex-showroom), though the new features might command a slight premium.
What to Expect at Launch
- Tweaked grille and bumper for a refreshed exterior look
- Larger, modern infotainment system with wireless connectivity
- New steering wheel from the Thar Roxx
- Same engine line-up: 1.5L diesel, 2.2L diesel, 2.0L turbo petrol
- Possible upgrade to electronic power steering (to be confirmed)
- Launch expected in the coming months of 2025
The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift won’t rewrite the rulebook, but it doesn’t need to. By sharpening the design, improving in-cabin tech, and (hopefully) upgrading steering comfort, Mahindra is ensuring its cult SUV stays relevant and appealing to both off-road loyalists and urban lifestyle buyers.
For a vehicle that balances heritage with modern needs, sometimes subtle is smarter than radical. If Mahindra gets the pricing right, the facelifted Thar could easily hold its ground as one of India’s most desirable SUVs in 2025.
FAQs
What are the key changes in the 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift?
Expect a new grille, tweaked bumper, larger touchscreen infotainment, and a new steering wheel.
Will the 2025 Thar get new engines?
No, it will continue with the same 1.5L diesel, 2.2L diesel, and 2.0L turbo petrol engines.
Is Mahindra introducing electronic power steering in the facelift?
It hasn’t been confirmed yet, but it’s one of the most requested updates.
When will the 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift launch?
The launch is expected in the first half of 2025.
Will the Thar facelift be more expensive?
A slight price increase is expected due to new features, but it should remain close to the current range.
