Old Mahindra Thar Vs Thar Facelift: Differences & Similarities Explained

Published: Monday, October 6, 2025, 9:25 [IST]

The much-awaited Mahindra Thar facelift has finally arrived in India, priced between Rs 9.99 lakh and Rs 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This update marks 5 years since the launch of the current-generation Thar 3-door model in 2020.

As part of the refresh, Mahindra has introduced a subtle change in the variant nomenclature - the AX and LX trims are now called AXT and LXT respectively. Interestingly, the convertible and soft-top versions, which were discontinued in April 2025, have not made a comeback with this update. That said, here are a few similarities and differences between the Thar facelift and its predecessor.

Exterior Design: Familiar But Different

Mahindra has chosen to retain the rugged, no-nonsense appeal of the Thar's exterior while adding a few refined touches. The most noticeable change is the new body-coloured front grille that replaces the earlier blacked-out one, giving the SUV a slightly more premium look. Dual-tone bumpers, an internally operable fuel lid, and the addition of a rear wiper, washer, and camera enhance both convenience and practicality.

LED headlights, which many enthusiasts were expecting, still haven't been introduced - the halogen units continue as before. Likewise, the 16-inch steel wheels on the LXT variants and 18-inch alloy wheels on the AXT variants remain unchanged in design. Mahindra's Twin Peaks logo, which was added in the 2022 update, continues to be seen on the wheel hub caps, key fob, and throughout the cabin.

Interior & Features: A Significant Upgrade

Inside, the Thar facelift brings a host of welcome improvements. Borrowing inspiration from the recently introduced Thar Roxx 5-door, the new 3-door Thar now gets a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system - a notable jump from the outgoing model's 7-inch unit. This new setup supports next-generation adventure statistics and a refreshed user interface.

The interior also gains new switchgear and a steering wheel borrowed from the Thar Roxx, giving it a more modern and cohesive appeal. Mahindra has addressed several ergonomic concerns too, adding power window switches to the door trims (with one-touch operation for the driver), A-pillar-mounted grab handles, front sliding armrests, and a dead pedal in automatic variants. Perhaps the most practical addition is the inclusion of rear AC vents.

Engine & Gearbox: Nothing New Here

The facelifted Thar continues with the same trio of engines that have served it well. The lineup includes the 152hp 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, the 119hp 1.5-litre diesel, and the 132hp 2.2-litre diesel engines. Transmission options remain unchanged, and the 4WD system is still available with the turbo-petrol version while being standard on the larger diesel variant.

DriveSpark Thinks

The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift may not look drastically different from the outside, but the updates inside make it feel much more contemporary and comfortable. With a stronger focus on convenience and tech, Mahindra has refined the Thar without diluting its off-road DNA.