Mahindra is set to launch the much-awaited facelift of the popular 3-door Thar in India.
The upcoming model is expected to get design and feature updates inspired by the larger Thar Roxx, but retain the existing engines and gear options.
The updated Mahindra Thar SUV has been spotted in India’s roads already and is expected to launch by late September 2026. The company has also released a teaser of the new model with the caption “Off-road adventure now gets muddier,” insinuating that the next-gen Thar will continue to carry its rugged image.
Roxx-Inspired Exterior Updates
Most of the expected changes for the Thar facelift will be concentrated in its exterior design. Reports suggest that the 3-door model will get styling updates inspired by the Roxx, including a redesigned front bumper, grille, and headlamps.
The Thar 3-door is anticipated to get a redesigned front bumper along with a new grille that will have a different pattern. The SUV is also expected to get tweaked headlamps and bumpers while retaining its upright design.
The test cars were also spotted with new alloy wheels that are expected to give the car a modernized look and possibly be available on the higher trims.
The facelift model is expected to retain its boxy shape with round headlamps, an upright windscreen, flared wheel arches, and a spare wheel at the tailgate. Mahindra is not expected to make significant changes to this design as it has become synonymous with the Thar name. However, it will likely get new exterior colors and details.
The SUV is also expected to get a few interior updates and feature upgrades as the brand looks to appeal to the changing customer demands. Most of these features will likely be inspired by the Thar Roxx. For example, the 3-door model will likely get a larger 10.25-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, smartphone connectivity features, and advanced connectivity options such as digital instrument clusters.
The upcoming infotainment system will also include car navigation features. On the other hand, the Thar is anticipated to get a digital instrument cluster. It will offer the driver all the information they need on the road, from the fuel economy to the drive modes engaged and the current speed.
Other features the facelift model will likely get include an electric parking brake, ventilated front seats, and a 6-way electric driver seat. The latter features will make the 3-door Thar more comfortable, especially for long drives on the highway.
The SUV will also likely get a 360-degree camera to aid while driving, especially in tricky situations such as navigating through narrow off-road tracks. This feature will be useful and will also make parking the Thar easier, especially in urban settings.
The SUV will also likely get some interior updates such as an improved dashboard, more comfortable seats, and new switchgear. Although the Thar has always had a rugged image, the brand will likely add some comfort features to the 3-door model so it can appeal to a more significant customer base.
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Possible ADAS Features
One of the more interesting updates for the facelift Thar is the possible addition of an ADAS driving package. Recently, reports suggested that the new Thar will get the Level 2 ADAS system as standard, similar to what the brand has been including on some of its newer cars. If this update is implemented, it will position the updated Thar facelift as one of the most safety-equipped SUVs in its segment.
The features included in the Level 2 ADAS driving package will include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward-collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. However, these updates are still subject to confirmation, and it is still unknown if/when they will be implemented. They could also just be exclusive to the top trims, given the Thar’s position as a lifestyle vehicle. Nevertheless, the addition of such a safety package will help the Thar stand out from the competition and provide its customers with a more confident driving experience.
Existing Engine Options Expected
The new Mahindra Thar 3-door is not expected to get significant powertrain updates. It will likely retain the existing powertrain lineup, which includes the 1.5L diesel, 2.2L diesel, and 2.0L turbo petrol engines.
The 1.5L diesel engine has a power output of approximately 119Hp and 300Nm of torque. It will likely continue to be paired with a 6-speed manual and rear-wheel-drive system.
The 2.2L diesel engine has a power output of approximately 132Hp and 300Nm of torque and will likely continue to be the preferred engine for the 4-wheel-drive variants. It will be available with a 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearbox options.
On the other hand, the 2.0L turbo petrol engine produces about 152Hp and 300Nm of torque and will also be available with a 4-wheel and 2-wheel drive systems. It will likely continue to be paired with a 6-speed automatic and 6-speed manual gearbox.
Mahindra Thar 3-door’s 4-wheel drive system and low-range transfer-case will also remain the same as they are currently the SUV’s standout features. With these engines and drivetrains, the updated Thar is assured to deliver its signature on-road performance, making it one of the best performance SUVs in its class.
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Expected Price and Competition
Mahindra Thar’s current price range starts at approximately Rs 10.32 lakh and goes up to Rs 18 lakh, with the 3-door variants at the lower end and 5-door versions at the higher end. However, the new Mahindra Thar 3-door is expected to cost more due to the additional features it will have over the current model.
The final price range for the facelift model will most likely be announced right before its launch. However, the update is expected to cost between Rs 40,000 to Rs 60,000 more than the existing models, depending on the trims and their respective features.
The new Thar’s rugged design, powerful engines, and high torque figures will continue to make it a competitor to the Force Gurkha, which is currently the most popular rival. At the same time, it will also continue to keep potential buyers of the Maruti Jimny at bay with its more powerful powertrains and bigger size.
Launch Timeline
Mahindra Thar 3-door’s facelift is expected to launch in late September 2026. However, the company has still not officially revealed its launch date.
The 2026 Thar update will likely help the brand stay as relevant as possible in the competitive Indian SUV market while also giving its customers more reason to consider the 3-door model over the 5-door version.
With Roxx-inspired exterior updates, several new comfort features, and possible additional ADAS safety features, the new Mahindra Thar is set to offer its customers a perfect blend of rugged lifestyle appeal while also ensuring it has the comfort features to keep up with the modern on-road driving experience.
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