Mahindra has updated the Thar in 2025 not with a full facelift, but with a mid-cycle refresh. Priced at a starting price of Rs 9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Thar comes with some new looks, cabin improvements and key features, while retaining much of the mechanical DNA of the original model. Here’s a comparison between the old Thar and the 2025 version, taking a look at what’s new, what’s been retained, and whether the changes are enough to attract buyers.
Also read: 2025 Mahindra Thar 3-door launched with major changes, starting price Rs 9.99 lakh
what could have changed
- Powertrain and Drivetrain: The 2025 Thar retains the same three engine variants: 1.5-litre diesel, 2.2-litre mHawk diesel and 2.0-litre turbo petrol. There has been no change in transmission options (manual and automatic). Off-road hardware, 4×4 capability and mechanical layout remain the same.
- Exterior Design: There are no structural changes, meaning the suspension, underpinnings, wheelbase and key design elements remain the same. It could have a new look with new headlamps/tail lamps and some changes in the body shell.
What’s new: Design and styling changes
- The only noticeable change at the front is the body-colour grille and dual-coloured front bumper – inspired by the Rocks.
- At the rear, there is a rear-view camera mounted in the spare wheel mount. The rear windscreen now has a dedicated wiper and washer. The key lock of the fuel-filler cap has been removed, and an internal switch has been fitted for convenience.
- New color options: Mahindra has introduced two new colors: Tango Red and Battleship Grey. Although red was available earlier, gray now looks upmarket.
Inside: Cabin changes and additional features
This is where the most noticeable changes will be seen in the 2025 Thar:
- Rocks-inspired cabin: Soft-touch door pads, grab handles for easy entry, and armrests with storage and cupholders are new additional features.
- Rear passengers will now get dedicated AC vents and USB Type-C port.
- Infotainment and Connectivity: The monochrome or basic screen of the old Thar is now replaced by a 10.25-inch touchscreen that supports smartphone integration. A 65W USB-C port and wireless charging pad have also been added. However, the driver instrument cluster remains analog.
- Ergonomics and convenience: The window switches, which were previously located on the center console, are now back to their original place on the door pads, where they should be. The location of the handbrake lever in the center console has also been changed as there are now two cup-holders.
Variant Range and Price
Mahindra has new names of the variants: LXT and AXT. Prices range from Rs. 9.99 lakh for the base AXT MT to Rs. 16.99 lakh for the most expensive LXT AT in 4×4 AT guise. Although the base price may seem aggressive, the most expensive variant is a bit expensive. This update focuses on what’s important to modern users, but it was high time to give it a proper facelift. However, this 2025 Thar remains a lifestyle vehicle that has many fans but is reserved for a few.
