When you think about iconic Indian SUVs, one name that immediately comes to mind is the Mahindra Thar. With its rugged looks, powerful performance, and go-anywhere DNA, the Thar has been the ultimate lifestyle off-roader for decades. But as technology advances and competition heats up with rivals like the Maruti Jimny and Force Gurkha, Mahindra is preparing to refresh its superstar SUV with a brand-new facelift.

Recently, multiple test mules of the Mahindra Thar facelift 2025 were spotted on Indian roads, covered in camouflage but still revealing enough to excite auto enthusiasts. Spy shots confirm that the new model will not just be a cosmetic upgrade, but a carefully designed evolution that adds premium features, safety enhancements, and better comfort without compromising on the Thar’s legendary off-road spirit.

So, what exactly is changing in the upcoming Thar facelift? Let’s break down everything we know so far, including design tweaks, interior upgrades, engine options, launch timeline, price expectations, and buyer advice.

Exterior Design: A Modern Twist on the Classic Thar

The Mahindra Thar’s identity has always been defined by its tough and boxy stance. It’s instantly recognizable, and Mahindra knows that tinkering too much with this iconic formula could backfire. That’s why the facelift version retains the rugged DNA but introduces smart design changes inspired by the recently launched Thar Roxx.

New Front Fascia & Grille

The test mule shows that the front grille design is likely to change. Instead of the traditional seven-slot Jeep-inspired grille, Mahindra could introduce a six-slot modernized grille with thicker slats, giving the SUV a more premium and international look. This subtle change will help the facelift stand apart while maintaining the Thar’s bold identity.

LED Headlamps & DRLs

The circular headlamp setup is expected to stay, but Mahindra might upgrade them with LED projectors and DRLs (Daytime Running Lamps). This will not only improve night-time visibility but also make the SUV look futuristic and stylish. Competing SUVs like the Jimny already offer advanced LED lighting, so Mahindra is unlikely to fall behind.

Redesigned Bumpers & Air Intakes

Spy images suggest chunkier front and rear bumpers with wider air intakes. This enhances the SUV’s road presence and improves aerodynamics. Additionally, these bumpers are expected to offer better approach and departure angles for serious off-roaders.

New Alloy Wheels & Tyres

The facelift is expected to come with fresh alloy wheel designs, possibly larger in size (18-inch options) with wider tyres for more stability. These wheels will also carry a dual-tone finish to boost its lifestyle appeal.

Rear-End Changes

At the back, we may see new LED tail lamps, a slightly updated spare wheel mount, and a more refined tailgate design. While the changes are not dramatic, they will add freshness and align the SUV with global styling cues.

Side Profile Tweaks

From the side, the overall silhouette remains unchanged flat bonnet, upright pillars, and wide stance but there may be new fender flares, roof-mounted accessories, and optional color schemes that give buyers more personalization options.

Interior & Features: A Big Step Towards Premium

The current-gen Mahindra Thar is famous for its rugged charm, but one area where customers have often demanded improvement is the interior quality and features list. The facelift aims to fix exactly that.

Mahindra Thar Facelift 2025 Cabin Design: More Comfort, Same Tough DNA

Mahindra understands that many Thar buyers today are urban lifestyle SUV enthusiasts, not just hardcore off-roaders. That’s why the upcoming facelift will strike a balance between rugged practicality and modern comfort.

• Expect an all-black or dual-tone dashboard with soft-touch inserts for a more premium feel.

• The cabin layout will likely be redesigned to free up space for better ergonomics and convenience.

• Seats are expected to come with improved cushioning and lumbar support, making long drives more comfortable.

Infotainment Upgrade: Larger Touchscreen & Connectivity

One of the biggest highlights of the facelift will be a new, larger infotainment system.

• A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit (borrowed from the XUV300 facelift) is expected.

• It will support Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

• Mahindra’s AdrenoX connected car tech might also make its way into the Thar, giving access to remote vehicle controls and live location tracking.

This upgrade will significantly boost the SUV’s appeal in the lifestyle segment.

Mahindra Thar Facelift 2025 Instrument Cluster & Driver Display

The existing semi-digital cluster is expected to be replaced with a full digital instrument console or a larger TFT MID display.

This would provide real-time information like:

• Tyre pressure monitoring

• Fuel efficiency

• Navigation support

• Drive mode info

Such modern touches will help the Thar compete with global lifestyle SUVs.

Comfort & Convenience Features

The facelifted Thar will not just be about off-roading anymore t’s also being designed as a daily driver and weekend adventure vehicle.

Expected comfort upgrades include:

• Automatic Climate Control

• Push-button start/stop with keyless entry

• Rear AC vents (a big demand from existing owners)

• Cruise Control for highway drives

• Premium audio system with 6–8 speakers

• Wireless charging pad

These changes will make the Thar more appealing to family buyers who previously saw it as too “basic.”

Safety Features: Raising the Benchmark

Safety is now a major buying factor, especially after the success of the Global NCAP crash tests in India. The Thar facelift is expected to take this very seriously.

• 6 Airbags (front, side, and curtain)

• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with hill-hold & hill-descent control

• Traction Control & Roll-over Mitigation

• 360-degree camera with front and rear sensors

• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) (basic features like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise may be added in top trims)

If Mahindra adds ADAS, the Thar facelift could become the safest off-road SUV in its segment.

Seating Layout Options

Currently, the Thar is offered in 2-door and 4×4 layouts with forward-facing rear seats. The facelift could bring more flexibility:

• 5-door Mahindra Thar variant (already in testing)

• Better boot space and fold-flat rear seats for practicality

• Optional leatherette upholstery in higher trims

This move will make the Thar more family-friendly, while still keeping the hardcore off-roader buyers happy.

Also Read… Tata Punch Facelift 2025: Spied Testing With New Features, Price & Launch Timeline

Conclusion:

The Mahindra Thar facelift 2025 is shaping up to be more than just a cosmetic upgrade. From LED headlamps, redesigned bumpers, and new alloy wheels on the outside to premium interiors, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, 6 airbags, and possible ADAS features inside, Mahindra is making sure the Thar continues to dominate the lifestyle SUV segment.

What makes the Thar special is its ability to blend tradition with innovation. It keeps the rugged off-road DNA intact, while also adding creature comforts that urban buyers demand. With a possible 5-door variant, improved safety tech, and better practicality, the facelift is set to widen Thar’s appeal from hardcore off-roaders to families looking for an adventurous daily drive.