The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift arrives with a series of updates, encompassing aesthetic refinements, feature additions, and interior modifications, while maintaining its existing engine and drivetrain options. This comparative analysis explores the key distinctions between the previous Thar model and the newly launched facelift, focusing on design, interior, features, specifications, and pricing.
**Design Evolution**
The earlier Thar was recognized for its robust design, characterized by features such as prominent bumpers, removable roof panels, squared wheel arches, the iconic seven-slat grille, and other rugged design cues. The facelift model preserves these fundamental design elements while introducing subtle improvements to enhance its visual appeal.
The front grille now integrates seamlessly with the body color, contributing to a more unified appearance. The redesigned dual-tone bumpers, accented with silver detailing, provide added visual contrast. Furthermore, Mahindra has expanded the color palette with the introduction of Battleship Grey and Tango Red, which replaces the previous Rage Red.
**Enhanced Features**
The initial Thar model incorporated elements such as steering-mounted controls, manual air conditioning, roof-mounted speakers, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift introduces a variety of upgrades, including an electric fuel-lid opener, Type-C charging ports for both front and rear passengers, and rear AC vents. The infotainment system has been upgraded with a larger 10.25-inch display and a refreshed user interface, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, the new Thar is equipped with a reversing camera, alongside a rear wiper and washer system.
**Interior Upgrades**
The earlier Thar’s interior was designed to withstand both daily driving and off-road conditions, providing practical functionality. It included roof-mounted speakers, a touchscreen infotainment system, and washable floor panels. While the layout was straightforward, it maintained the essential comfort expected from a modern SUV while offering the robustness needed for off-road adventures.
Mahindra has implemented several interior modifications, most notably a new steering wheel design. The facelift model now features grab handles on the A-pillars, branded with ‘THAR’, for both the driver and front passenger (previously available only on the co-driver’s side). The addition of a sliding armrest with storage has been introduced. Automatic variants benefit from a dead pedal. Additionally, the power window switches have been repositioned from the center console to the door armrests.
**Mechanicals Remain Consistent**
The mechanical specifications of the facelifted Thar remain unchanged. It continues to offer a 1.5-liter diesel engine generating 118PS/300Nm, a 2.2-liter diesel engine producing 132PS/300Nm, and a 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine with an output of 150PS/320Nm. Transmission options comprise a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
The rear-wheel-drive configuration is available with the 1.5-liter diesel (manual only) and the 2.0-liter turbo-petrol (automatic only). The four-wheel-drive setup is available with the larger diesel and the turbo-petrol, both offered with manual and automatic transmissions.
**Pricing and Competition**
The previous Thar model had a price range of Rs 11.35 lakh to Rs 17.60 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift is priced between Rs 9.99 lakh and Rs 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Both models continue to compete against the same rivals, including the Force and Maruti Jimny.