Introduction

The Mahindra Thar is not simply another SUV in India—it’s a declaration of freedom, adventure, and machismo individuality. Ever since its re-launch in 2020, the 3-door Thar has piqued the imagination of the new generation, becoming an urban explorer and hardcore off-roader lifestyle icon. Its boxy looks, go-anywhere attitude, and unapologetic road presence have enabled Mahindra to create a niche for itself in the Indian SUV space that is quite distinct from others.

There has been a clear shift in consumer behavior toward cars that can navigate both the bumpy roads of the mountains and the smooth roads of the city. At the same time, with India fast changing towards electrification, customers are also seeking EVs that provide not only sustainability but also thrill and uniqueness.

Mahindra’s double-pronged strategy comes into play. By introducing a facelifted 3-door Thar along with the all-electric Mahindra Thar EV, Mahindra is not merely refreshing a product—it’s announcing a shift. The facelift keeps the internal combustion (ICE) version in the game with new looks and contemporary features, while the Mahindra Thar EV positions Mahindra for the mobility future—electric, connected, and adventurous. It’s a risky strategy that attempts to lock down the Thar’s place in both conventional and future-tastic markets, making it desirable to off-road enthusiasts and city EV enthusiasts alike.

Thar 3-Door Facelift – What’s New?

The new facelift of the Mahindra Thar 3-door is not merely a cosmetic update—it’s a strategic update that maintains the SUV’s fabled ruggedness while adding today’s sophistication. Externally, anticipate a fresh, more aggressive design with slimmer LED DRLs, a reworked front grille, revised bumpers, and fresh alloy wheel designs that make it look even more imposing. These refinements don’t merely enhance looks—they’re intended to make the Thar’s road presence more civilized without sacrificing its off-road genes. 

Mahindra is expected to introduce a larger touchscreen infotainment system with wireless connectivity, a new fully digital instrument cluster, and upgraded upholstery for a more premium feel. The use of better materials, soft-touch panels, and added tech integration will make the Thar more appealing to urban buyers who want both ruggedness and comfort.

There will be new color choices and configurations for the trims, providing additional customization. Nothing takes away from all these upgrades, however, as Mahindra has been very cautious not to breach the standard bearer of Thar’s go-anywhere ability and rugged build. The tough ladder-frame framework and generous ground clearance are unchanged, keeping it close to its adventure-ready heritage.

Key Highlights – Thar 3-Door Facelift Updates (Bullets):

• Redesigned front grille, LED DRLs, and refreshed bumpers for a contemporary appearance
• New alloy wheel designs to enhance the stance and the style
• Larger touchscreen infotainment with better UI and connectivity features
• A fully digital instrument cluster is on offer in the higher variants
• Premium cabin materials and new seat upholstery
• New color schemes and dual-tone trims to be offered
• Build quality and off-road ability remain unaffected
• Still rides on a ladder-frame chassis with high ground clearance

Mechanical Changes & Engine Options

The new 3-door facelift Mahindra Thar is likely to carry forward its tested engine range, the 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol and the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engines. Both powertrains have already tested their mettle on various types of roads and are reputed for offering immense torque, off-road ability, and daily usability. Nevertheless, Mahindra can calibrate these engines for increased fuel efficiency, smoother NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels, and enhanced throttle response to cater to the changing needs of customers.

Transmission responsibilities will still be the province of the trusted 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmissions. Both petrol and diesel models will be available with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 4×4 drivetrain options, allowing buyers the choice between adventure-readiness and city convenience.

These mechanical improvements guarantee that although the Thar progresses in the direction of tech and design, its original DNA of off-road capability and mechanical solidity remains sacrosanct.

Important Features:

• 0L mStallion turbo-petrol engine set to remain
• 2L mHawk diesel engine expected to be unchanged in basic structure
• Tuned for improved mileage and reduced NVH levels
• 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Automatic transmissions on offer
• RWD and 4×4 drivetrain options will remain
• Mechanical resilience and off-road functionality continue to garner strong attention

Mahindra Thar EV

Mahindra is set to make a big leap into the future with the launch of the Mahindra Thar EV, combining the legendary off-road heritage of the Thar with future-proof electric mobility. The first official glimpse was during the Auto Expo, where the Mahindra Thar EV prototype made its debut as part of Mahindra’s Born Electric platform—a focused EV architecture designed to deliver performance, safety, and range.

The Mahindra Thar EV stands out with clear EV-specific design elements, such as a shut-off front grille, aerodynamic bumpers, and flush door handles, which enhance both its appearance and efficiency. Interiors should be futuristic in nature with a minimalist cabin configuration, a wide floating infotainment unit, and digital instrumentation that leans toward technology rather than toughness.

Mahindra is eyeing an actual-world range of 350 to 400 km per charge, making the Mahindra Thar EV at once an urban adventurer and an off-road buddy. Rumors point to an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) layout based on dual electric motors, a high-capacity battery pack potentially around 60–80 kWh, tuned for both power and long run. If Mahindra can deliver on these assurances, the Mahindra Thar EV might change the entire game for electric SUVs in India.

• First showcased at the Auto Expo, as part of Mahindra’s Born Electric platform
• Closed grille, aerodynamics, and EV-specific styling
• Future-looking interior: minimalist dashboard, big screen, and digital cockpit
• Range expected: 350–400 km on a full charge
• AWD setup, probably with a dual-motor setup
• Battery pack size between 60–80 kWh estimated
• Built to combine city efficiency with off-road capability

Launch Timeline & Production Updates

Mahindra Thar EV is to be launched in early 2026 and will be one of India’s first fully electric lifestyle off-roaders.

The Mahindra Thar EV will be produced at Mahindra’s cutting-edge EV manufacturing facility as part of its overall vision for electric mobility under the Born Electric brand. The facility is specifically configured to enable scalable EV manufacturing with high-technology robotics, battery assembly lines, and global safety standards.

The Thar has been seen testing on varied Indian terrains—ranging from city roads to hill roads—reflecting Mahindra’s determination to validate real-world robustness in varying conditions. Such extensive field testing mirrors the company’s initiative towards reliability, performance, and preparation for mass production.

• The 3-Door Facelift launch is expected by late 2025
• Mahindra Thar EV is expected to arrive in the market by early 2026
• EV manufacturing to occur at Mahindra’s new EV manufacturing plant
• Born Electric platform to underpin the Mahindra Thar EV
• Testing is seen across India, from highways to brutal off-road conditions
• Indicates serious product readiness and real-world corroboration

Pricing Expectations

Mahindra should maintain the pricing for the Thar 3-Door Facelift competitive, appealing to a broad customer base ranging from off-road enthusiasts to city residents seeking a tough lifestyle car. The facelift model should be priced between Rs 12 lakh to Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom), varying with the variant, drivetrain (RWD or 4×4), and transmissions. With new features, technology updates, and cosmetic enhancements, this price segment places it comfortably against the competition from the Maruti Jimny and Force Gurkha.

The Mahindra Thar EV, however, will feature a premium fare when it comes, with prices between Rs 18 lakh and Rs 22 lakh (ex-showroom) likely. This will be contingent upon the final battery capacity, range certification (ARAI), and availability of features such as AWD and fast charging.

Mahindra keeps its promises on range and performance; the Mahindra Thar EV will provide value in the nascent electric SUV segment, nonetheless. Mahindra is targeting aggressive prices while striking a balance between innovation and affordability, particularly for those looking for a future-proof SUV experience.

• The 3-Door Facelift is likely to cost Rs 12–16 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Mahindra Thar EV set to cost around Rs 18–22 lakh (ex-showroom)
• EV pricing will differ depending on the size of the battery and output range
• Facelift is value-oriented with technology and design enhancements
• EV targeted at premium lifestyle + environment-conscious buyer segment

Target Audience & Market Positioning

Mahindra is aiming at two different—but ardently devoted—purchaser segments. The Thar 3-Door facelift still interests its original market: hardcore off-roaders, overlanders, and adventure enthusiasts who prize mechanical ruggedness, 4×4 proficiency, and a powerful road presence. This trim is still a top choice for those who place high importance on performance, toughness, and weekend excursions over uncertain country.

The Mahindra Thar EV is Mahindra’s response to changing tastes among urban, green-aware youth and tech-savvy consumers who seek a compact SUV that’s not only green but also forward-looking. With its aggressive design, electric powertrain, and connected technology, it’s for those who seek sustainability without sacrificing style, use, or presence.

The ICE Thar facelift will still compete with the Maruti Jimny and Force Gurkha, both of which are compact, off-road-capable offerings. On the other hand, the Mahindra Thar EV will join an emerging electric SUV war zone, competing with the likes of the Tata Nexon EV Long Range, the soon-to-arrive Scorpio EV, and upcoming mid-size electric crossovers.

• Thar Facelift: Focused on adventure enthusiasts, off-roaders, and lifestyle SUV consumers
• Mahindra Thar EV: Focused on urban millennials, tech enthusiasts, and green professionals
• ICE Competition: Maruti Jimny, Force Gurkha
• EV Competition: Tata Nexon EV LR, incoming Scorpio EV, and other mid-size e-SUVs
• Mahindra Thar EV is set to redefine India’s electric lifestyle SUV segment

Feature Comparison Table – Thar vs Rivals

Final Thoughts

The Thar 3-Door Facelift and the Mahindra Thar EV, Mahindra is making a unique mix of heritage and innovation work. On the one hand, the facelift keeps the tradition going, sophisticating a product well-loved by off-roaders and lifestyle SUV customers all over India.

This is a watershed moment for lifestyle SUVs in India, as it heralds a change in what consumers can anticipate from tough cars—not simply raw power, but also intelligent, eco-friendly innovation, whether adventure purist or progressive city dweller, Mahindra’s new Thar lineage has something for everyone.

X. FAQs

Q1. What should be the launch timing of the Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift?

The facelifted 3-door Thar is likely to hit the market in late 2025.

Q2. Will off-road capability be present in the Mahindra Thar EV?

Yes, it is likely to be equipped with an AWD (All-Wheel Drive) configuration and maintain Mahindra’s tough underpinnings for off-road capability.

Q3. On a single charge, what is the anticipated range of the Mahindra Thar EV?

The Mahindra Thar EV is projected to have a range of about 350 to 400 km, based on battery capacity and usage scenario.

Q4. Is the Thar facelift going to have an automatic transmission?

Yes, the Thar facelift will have both a 6-speed manual transmission as well as a 6-speed automatic transmission across all variants.

Q5. In India, how much will the Thar EV cost?

The anticipated ex-showroom price of the Mahindra Thar EV falls in the range of Rs 18 lakh to Rs 22 lakh based on battery specifications and features.