The Mahindra Thar has long been among India’s most beloved off-road SUVs, blending rugged heritage with modern usability. In October 2025, Mahindra launched a refreshed/facelifted version of the second-generation Thar.
This update isn’t a full redesign — Mahindra has kept the same engines and core mechanicals — but the facelift brings meaningful visual tweaks, interior enhancements, and new convenience features intended to keep the Thar competitive. Let’s dive deep into what’s new, what carries over, and whether the 2025 Thar facelift is worth considering.
Exterior & Styling Changes
- The front gets a refreshed grille treatment (body-coloured elements) and a dual-tone bumper with silver/gunmetal accents.
- The headlamp and tail lamp signatures are reported to have C-shaped LED elements (or updated DRL styling) in spy shots.
- The bumpers, especially the rear, have been reworked; there is now a reverse camera mounted in the spare-wheel region (similar to the Thar ROXX)
- Larger or refreshed alloy wheels, possibly with “Thar” branding on the spoke, have been spotted.
- Two new paint colours have been added: Tango Red (metallic) and Battleship Grey.
- The overall silhouette, boxy shape, and rugged lines remain, retaining the Thar’s iconic look.
Interior & Feature Upgrades
This is where the 2025 facelift makes its biggest impact. Mahindra has borrowed cues from its newer models (e.g. Thar ROXX, XUV700) to modernize the cabin.
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Key interior changes & new features
- New steering wheel
- The facelifted Thar gets a redesigned steering wheel, similar to those from Mahindra’s newer SUVs.
- Power window switches moved to doors
- In prior Thar models, window controls were in the center console; in the facelift, they are relocated to the doors for ergonomics.
- Larger infotainment screen
- A 10.25-inch touchscreen (HD) is expected/seen in spy shots.
- Support for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and off-road telemetry is anticipated.
- Rear AC vents, USB-C ports, power outlets
- Rear seat comfort is improved with dedicated AC vents and connectivity options.
- Grab handles, armrest, centre console changes
- A grab handle on the A-pillar is added to assist with ingress/egress.
- A sliding centre armrest is expected/reported.
- Revised dashboard & cabin theme
- The interior shifts toward all-black or darker tones, with simplification of trim detailing. More premium fitments, possibly better materials, though the core layout is familiar.
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Mahindra Thar Facelift 2025 Pros and Cons
| Category | Pros (Advantages) | Cons (Disadvantages) |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Styling | Subtle exterior refresh with new grille, bumper, and LED lights; maintains rugged Thar DNA | Minimal design changes – looks very similar to the old model |
| Interior & Comfort | New 10.25-inch infotainment, better materials, door-mounted window controls, rear AC vents | Still a compact cabin; ergonomics remain tight for tall passengers |
| Technology & Features | Added convenience features like armrest, USB-C ports, improved infotainment | Still misses advanced ADAS or 360° camera found in some rivals |
| Performance | Proven engines (2.0L petrol, 2.2L & 1.5L diesels), excellent off-road ability | No performance upgrade or hybrid/EV option |
| Practicality | More comfortable for daily use; improved refinement | Boot space limited; still not ideal as a family car |
| Pricing | Competitive price for capability offered (₹9.99–16.99 lakh) | Slightly higher cost than outgoing model for incremental updates |
| Appeal | Iconic brand, strong resale value, adventure-ready | Niche appeal – not suited for all buyers’ needs |
