The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift has been released, bringing notable upgrades. These enhancements include new features, cosmetic adjustments, and interior modifications, while retaining the original mechanical components. This detailed comparison examines the differences between the previous and the latest Mahindra Thar models, focusing on design, interior, features, specifications, and price.
**Design Evolution: Old vs. New Thar**
The prior Thar model was distinguished by its rugged design, featuring elements such as substantial bumpers, removable roof panels, squared wheel arches, the signature seven-slat grille, and other robust details. The facelift retains these key design characteristics, but refines them to provide a more contemporary appearance.
The grille now matches the body color, improving its integration with the front. The redesigned dual-tone bumpers with silver accents enhance the visual appeal. Mahindra has also introduced two new exterior colors: Battleship Grey and Tango Red, with Tango Red replacing the previous Rage Red option.
**Feature Enhancements in the Facelift**
The earlier model included features such as steering-mounted controls, manual AC, roof-mounted speakers, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift introduces several updates, including an electric fuel-lid opener, Type-C charging ports for both front and rear passengers, and rear AC vents. The infotainment unit has been upgraded to a 10.25-inch display and features a redesigned interface compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Furthermore, the new Thar comes equipped with a reversing camera, as well as a rear wiper and washer.
**Interior Revisions: A Closer Look**
The interior of the original Thar was constructed to withstand both daily driving and challenging off-road conditions, making it a practical choice. It incorporated roof-mounted speakers, a touchscreen infotainment system, and washable floor panels. Despite its simple layout, it offered the comfort expected from a modern SUV while being durable enough for rugged environments.
Mahindra has made interior improvements, including a new steering wheel design. The facelift version now includes grab handles on the A-pillars with ‘THAR’ branding for both the driver and front passenger – earlier, this was only available on the co-driver’s side. A sliding armrest with storage has also been added. Automatic variants now include a dead pedal. Moreover, the power window switches have been relocated to the door armrests from the center console.
**Engine and Transmission: No Mechanical Changes**
The facelifted Thar retains its existing mechanical setup. It continues to offer a 1.5-liter diesel engine producing 118PS/300Nm, a 2.2-liter diesel delivering 132PS/300Nm, and a 2.0-liter turbo petrol making 150PS/320Nm. The transmission options are 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 system is paired with the larger diesel engine and the turbo-petrol, both available with manual and automatic gearboxes.
**Pricing and Competition**
The previous model was priced between Rs 11.35 lakh and Rs 17.60 lakh (ex-showroom). The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift is priced from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 16.99 lakh (ex-showroom). Both models continue to compete with the Force and Maruti Jimny.
