Mahindra Thar launches the Thar facelift at ₹9.99 lakh, bringing cabin upgrades and features borrowed from the 5-door ROXX. Here’s what’s new.
Mahindra thar has introduced a facelifted version of the Thar in India, starting at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). This new Thar brings in design and interior updates, many elements shared from the Thar ROXX variant, elevating comfort and features while retaining its rugged off-road DNA. In this article, we explore what’s new, how it compares to the ROXX, specs, trims, pros & cons, and whether it’s a compelling buy.
What’s new in the 2025 Thar facelift?
Mahindra’s latest Thar update isn’t a complete overhaul, but a carefully executed facelift aimed at modernizing the SUV and bringing it closer in comfort and features to its more premium sibling, the Thar ROXX. Some of the key changes include:
- Refreshed exterior styling: new grille, updated bumpers, revised lighting elements
- Improved interiors with new materials, better fit & finish
- Upgraded infotainment, displays, and convenience features
- Shared elements with ROXX in cabin design and features (more on that soon)
- Changes in variant offerings, drive-train options, and positioning
These enhancements signal Mahindra’s effort to keep Thar competitive — not just as a rugged off-roader but also as a more usable daily driver.
How much does the new Thar cost? Pricing & variants
The 2025 Thar facelift is launched at an entry price of ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base variant (1.5L diesel, RWD, manual) and goes up to ₹16.99 lakh for top-end options.
| Variant / Configuration | Price Range (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| Base / entry variant | ₹9.99 lakh |
| Top-end & 4×4 / AT | Up to ₹16.99 lakh |
Note: This launch price is for the facelifted 2-door configuration. The 5-door Thar ROXX, which shares a lot with this new Thar, is priced differently — it originally launched from ₹12.99 lakh ex-showroom.
Borrowed from ROXX: Cabin & feature sharing
One of the most talked-about aspects of this Thar facelift is how Mahindra has “lifted” or adopted cabin design cues and features from the ROXX. Here’s what’s carried over or shared:
- Interior materials and trim quality: More premium finishes, soft-touch surfaces, design accents similar to ROXX
- Infotainment / displays: Upgraded screens, possibly larger touchscreen units, modern UI design
- Comfort & convenience features: Better insulation, revised seating materials, more convenience bits
- Component sharing: Some switches, HVAC controls, ambient lighting, etc., may be the same as in ROXX
While the baseline Thar still maintains its rugged character, these borrowed enhancements bring it closer to the comfort expectations of urban buyers.
Engine, drivetrain & technical specs
Here’s a summary of the technical spec changes and what carries over:
| Parameter | What’s offered / upgrade |
|---|---|
| Engines | Likely continuation of the 1.5-litre diesel and possibly petrol / other options (depending on previous lineup) |
| Drive options | RWD (rear-wheel drive) in base, 4×4 in higher variants |
| Transmission | Manual or automatic options (depending on variant) |
| Chassis / platform | The facelift is an update rather than a full platform change |
| Performance & off-road | Expect same or slightly refined off-road capability; may see improved NVH (noise/vibration/harshness) in the cabin |
Because this is a facelift, many mechanical fundamentals remain the same, but tuning, insulation, and refinement may receive attention to match the improved cabin feel.
Pros & Cons: What works, what doesn’t
Advantages
- A compelling entry price point at ₹9.99 lakh gives access to the Thar brand to more buyers
- Interior & feature enhancements borrowed from ROXX help reduce the comfort gap
- Refreshed styling keeps the model modern and desirable
- Maintains off-road heritage while improving usability
Drawbacks / potential compromises
- Being a facelift, core mechanicals remain largely unchanged — buyers expecting a radical overhaul might be disappointed
- Feature parity with ROXX may be partial rather than full
- Some buyers may prefer the 5-door ROXX variant for usability rather than the 2-door
- Higher variants still command substantially higher prices, possibly narrowing value margins
Which buyers will benefit most?
The new facelifted Thar will appeal to:
- Adventure & off-road enthusiasts wanting the Thar experience at a lower cost
- Younger buyers or first-time SUV buyers who want rugged looks + better features
- Thar fans who avoided older models due to comfort compromises — this facelift narrows the gap
- Urban users who occasionally want off-road ability but need better daily usability
However, those who prioritize maximum comfort, rear-seat usability, or full ROXX features might still lean toward the 5-door ROXX.
Conclusion
Mahindra’s decision to launch the updated Thar at ₹9.99 lakh underscores their aim to broaden its appeal. While not a ground-up redesign, the facelift incorporates cabin improvements and feature elements from the more premium ROXX variant — a smart move to modernize without alienating core buyers. For those who love the Thar lineage but sought a bit more comfort, this variant positions itself as a sweet spot. However, if you want full ROXX experience (5-door space, top-tier features), the ROXX still holds its distinct place.
Overall, this facelifted Thar is a shrewd balance of heritage and modernity.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Is this ₹9.99 lakh price for all variants or just the base?
This is the base / entry price (ex-showroom) for the RWD, manual configuration. Higher and 4×4 variants carry higher prices.
Q2: How much feature overlap is there with Thar ROXX?
The overlap is in cabin materials, design cues, infotainment, and convenience features — not every ROXX feature is ported over.
Q3: Is there a soft-top option available in this facelift?
Initially, the new facelift Thar does not offer a soft-top option at launch.
Q4: Does the facelift improve off-road performance or mechanicals?
Fundamental mechanics stay mostly the same, but expect better NVH tuning, refinement, and small enhancements rather than radical upgrades.
Q5: Should buyers go for Thar ROXX instead for better features and usability?
If you prioritize more rear-seat space, 5-door usability, and top-tier features, the ROXX is still a strong option. The facelifted Thar, however, gives a good compromise.
