The Mahindra Thar has been an icon in India’s off-road SUV segment, admired for its rugged design, exceptional off-road capability, and adventurous spirit. With the 2025 facelift, Mahindra aims to elevate the Thar’s appeal with updated styling, modern interior features, and enhanced safety technology, ensuring it remains India’s go-to SUV for thrill-seekers and urban adventurers alike.
As the Indian SUV market evolves, buyers increasingly look for vehicles that combine off-road prowess with modern amenities, technology, and safety features. The Thar 2025 facelift promises to deliver just that. In this article, we explore the exterior and interior updates, engine performance, off-road capabilities, safety enhancements, expected pricing, and launch timeline.
🔷 Exterior Design — Rugged Yet Refined
The 2025 Thar facelift retains its classic boxy, muscular silhouette, a design that has become synonymous with adventure. However, Mahindra has added subtle refinements to make it look more contemporary and premium.
Front Fascia:
- Redesigned front grille featuring blacked-out or chrome accents depending on the variant.
- LED projector headlamps with daytime running lights (DRLs) enhance visibility and add a modern touch.
- Updated front bumper with integrated fog lamps and skid plates, emphasizing the Thar’s off-road DNA.
Side Profile:
- Strong, squared-off body lines that maintain the Thar’s iconic stance.
- Alloy wheels (16–18 inches) redesigned for both aesthetics and durability on rugged terrains.
- Blacked-out roof rails, side steps, and protective cladding give a premium yet rugged feel.
Rear Design:
- Refreshed tailgate styling with a sleek, modern high-mount stop lamp.
- LED tail lamps that complement the SUV’s updated look.
- Optional hardtop and soft-top variants for versatility in urban and off-road environments.
The facelift ensures that the Thar retains its legendary ruggedness while embracing modern design trends, making it equally appealing on city streets and off-road trails.
🔷 Interior & Cabin — Comfort Meets Functionality
While the Thar has always been about adventure, Mahindra has significantly upgraded the interior in the 2025 facelift to cater to modern buyers seeking comfort and technology.
Dashboard & Layout:
- Redesigned dashboard with soft-touch materials and high-quality finishes.
- Digital instrument cluster displaying key metrics such as fuel efficiency, trip data, and off-road stats.
- Central touchscreen infotainment system (7–9 inches) with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and navigation.
Seating & Comfort:
- Ergonomically designed front seats with better cushioning and lumbar support.
- Rear seats redesigned for improved legroom and comfort, foldable for flexible cargo space.
- Durable upholstery resistant to dust, water, and wear, ideal for off-road adventures.
Convenience Features:
- Push-button start and keyless entry for modern convenience.
- Steering-mounted controls for infotainment and phone functions.
- Rear AC vents, cup holders, and storage compartments for passengers’ convenience.
The interior upgrades make the Thar comfortable for long journeys and city driving, bridging the gap between adventure-ready SUV and daily-use practicality.
🔷 Engine & Performance — Power for On- and Off-Road Adventures
The 2025 Thar facelift is expected to feature enhanced engine options to deliver strong performance while remaining fuel-efficient.
Engine Options:
- Diesel variant: 2.2L mHawk turbo-diesel engine producing around 130 bhp with robust low-end torque.
- Petrol variant: 2.0L turbo-petrol engine producing 150 bhp, ideal for both urban and off-road driving.
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearbox depending on trim.
Fuel Efficiency:
- Diesel variant: 14–16 km/l in city and 16–18 km/l on highways.
- Petrol variant: 12–14 km/l in city and 14–15 km/l on highways.
- Optimized engine and lightweight materials in the facelift improve overall efficiency.
The Thar 2025 facelift ensures instant torque for off-road performance while maintaining respectable fuel efficiency, perfect for adventure trips and daily commutes.
🔷 Off-Road Capabilities — The Heart of the Thar
The Thar is synonymous with off-road adventure, and the 2025 facelift enhances its capability to tackle challenging terrains.
Key Off-Road Features:
- 4WD system with low-range gearing for rocky paths, steep inclines, and sandy tracks.
- High ground clearance (~220–230 mm) to tackle rough terrains and water crossings.
- Short front and rear overhangs for improved approach and departure angles.
- Hill-start assist and hill descent control for navigating steep gradients safely.
- Robust suspension: independent front and multi-link rear suspension for superior stability.
These features make the Thar 2025 facelift a true off-road SUV, perfect for weekend adventures and exploring remote trails.
🔷 Technology & Infotainment — Smart and Connected
The Thar 2025 facelift integrates modern technology for a connected, convenient, and safe driving experience.
Infotainment & Connectivity:
- 7–9 inch touchscreen supporting Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and offline navigation.
- Digital cluster providing off-road metrics, fuel consumption, and trip statistics.
- USB ports, AUX, and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity.
Comfort & Convenience:
- Automatic climate control in higher trims for passenger comfort.
- Steering-mounted audio and phone controls for safe operation while driving.
- Keyless entry, push-button start, and rear AC vents for enhanced convenience.
Lighting & Design:
- LED DRLs and projector headlamps for clear night vision.
- Interior ambient lighting in premium trims for a modern cabin feel.
With these upgrades, the Thar balances off-road readiness with urban convenience, appealing to a wider audience.
🔷 Safety — Advanced Protection for Every Journey
Mahindra has enhanced the safety features of the Thar 2025 facelift to meet modern standards and provide peace of mind.
Expected Safety Features:
- Dual front airbags standard; side and curtain airbags on higher trims.
- ABS with EBD and ESP for stability and braking control.
- Hill-start assist and descent control for off-road and hilly driving.
- Rear parking sensors and camera for city driving and tight spaces.
- Strong body structure designed to withstand collisions and provide occupant protection.
Safety upgrades make the Thar suitable for families, adventure enthusiasts, and daily commuters, ensuring protection in diverse driving conditions.
🔷 Variants & Expected Pricing
The Thar 2025 facelift is expected to be offered in multiple trims, catering to various buyer preferences:
Base Variant:
- Standard diesel or petrol engine, basic safety, and functional infotainment.
Mid Variant:
- Enhanced interiors, upgraded infotainment, and off-road aids.
Top Variant:
- Premium features including touchscreen infotainment, automatic transmission, advanced safety, and roof options.
Expected Price (Ex-Showroom India):
- Base: ₹14–15 lakh
- Mid: ₹16–17 lakh
- Top: ₹18–20 lakh
Competitive pricing ensures the Thar facelift remains accessible to adventure enthusiasts and loyal Mahindra customers.
🔷 Pros & Cons — Key Considerations
Pros:
- Legendary off-road capability with modern upgrades.
- Rugged design combined with contemporary styling.
- Comfortable, tech-savvy interior for long drives and urban use.
- Comprehensive safety features for peace of mind.
- Trusted brand with strong service network across India.
Cons:
- Higher trims may be expensive compared to older models.
- Interior space, while improved, may feel limited for taller passengers.
- Premium features still lag behind some international SUVs.
🔷 Launch Timeline & Expectations
- Testing: Facelifted Thar prototypes have been spotted across India undergoing road and off-road tests.
- Expected Launch: Likely late 2025, targeting festive season buyers.
- Bookings: Pre-bookings expected after the official announcement.
- Production: Mahindra’s plants in Chakan and Nashik will likely handle production.
With Mahindra’s trusted reputation and extensive dealer network, the facelifted Thar is expected to generate significant excitement across urban and semi-urban markets.
🔷 Final Thoughts
The Mahindra Thar 2025 facelift continues to embody the spirit of adventure, blending rugged design, off-road capability, modern interiors, and enhanced safety.
Key Highlights:
- Refreshed exterior design with modern styling cues.
- Interior upgrades for comfort, connectivity, and practicality.
- Efficient engine options providing power and fuel economy.
- Comprehensive safety features suitable for city and off-road driving.
- Competitive pricing with Mahindra’s reliability and service network.
With its launch imminent, the Thar 2025 facelift is poised to remain India’s favorite off-road SUV, appealing to adventurers, urban drivers, and families alike.