Mahindra Thar Facelift: Another Update Set for India

Mahindra Thar Facelift: Another Update Set for India

19 September 2026 By Sankar Kumar
1.2 lakh
growth
11.25 lakh
range
17.50 lakh
sales

Mahindra is preparing to give its popular off-roader, the Thar, yet another facelift in India. According to a report by Autocar India, the updated model is expected to arrive soon, marking the second major update for the current-generation Thar since its launch. The Thar has been a runaway success for Mahindra, and the company is keen to keep the momentum going with fresh styling and feature upgrades. The facelift is likely to bring subtle design changes to the exterior, including revised front and rear bumpers, new grille options, and updated alloy wheels. Inside, expect a revised dashboard layout, improved upholstery, and possibly a larger touchscreen infotainment system with the latest connected-car technology.

The current-generation Mahindra Thar was launched in India in October 2020 and quickly became a favourite among off-road enthusiasts and lifestyle buyers alike. In the financial year 2024-25, Mahindra sold over 1.2 lakh units of the Thar, according to company data. The model has consistently ranked among the top-selling SUVs in the rugged off-roader segment. With the facelift, Mahindra aims to address customer feedback and stay ahead of rivals like the Force Gurkha and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny five-door. Analysts say the update is crucial for Mahindra to maintain its dominance in the niche but growing off-road SUV market. The Thar's appeal lies in its retro-modern design, robust build, and capable 4x4 hardware. The facelift is expected to retain the same 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine options, though they may be tweaked for better refinement and efficiency. A six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic gearbox will continue to be offered, along with a four-wheel-drive system on higher variants.

Autocar India reports that the Mahindra Thar facelift will be launched in India soon, with production likely to begin at the company's Nashik plant.

Key changes on the cards include a new front grille with Mahindra's latest twin-peaks logo, redesigned LED headlamps with integrated DRLs, and a more rugged front bumper. The rear may get new LED tail lamps and a revised tailgate. Inside, the Thar facelift could feature a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and improved seat upholstery. Safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control, and hill-hold assist are expected to be standard across variants. The table below summarises the expected updates based on the Autocar India report.

FeatureCurrent TharExpected Facelift
Infotainment7-inch touchscreen10.25-inch touchscreen
Instrument ClusterAnalogueDigital
Airbags2 (standard)6 (standard)
HeadlampsHalogen/ProjectorLED with DRLs
Tail lampsLEDNew LED design

Mahindra has not yet announced an official launch date, but the report suggests the facelift could hit showrooms in India by late 2026. The Thar's pricing currently starts at around Rs 11.25 lakh (ex-showroom) and goes up to Rs 17.50 lakh for the top-spec variant. The facelift is expected to command a slight premium, though Mahindra may choose to keep prices competitive to fend off upcoming rivals. The off-road SUV segment in India is heating up, with new entrants like the Jimny five-door and the updated Gurkha. Mahindra's decision to update the Thar again so soon after its last update indicates the company's intent to stay ahead of the curve. The Thar has a strong fan following, and any update is likely to generate significant interest. Dealers we spoke to say they expect a positive response, especially if the feature additions are substantial. The facelift will also help Mahindra clear out existing inventory before the new model arrives. Production of the updated Thar is expected to begin at Mahindra's Nashik plant, where the current model is manufactured. The company has been ramping up production to meet demand, but waiting periods for the Thar remain long in some cities. The facelift could help reduce waiting times if production is streamlined. Overall, the Mahindra Thar facelift is a significant development for the Indian SUV market. With its blend of ruggedness and modernity, the Thar continues to be a unique proposition. Buyers looking for a lifestyle off-roader will have more reasons to consider the updated model. Stay tuned for more updates on the Mahindra Thar facelift, including launch date, prices, and variant details.

For more detailed coverage of the Mahindra Thar facelift and other automotive news, visit Autoverse. We bring you the latest updates from the Indian auto industry, including spy shots, launch reports, and expert reviews. Don't forget to bookmark our site and follow us on social media for instant alerts. Click here to read more: https://autoverse.cc.