Mahindra has launched the new Thar facelift in India, introducing subtle design tweaks, enhanced comfort, and updated connectivity features while also reshuffling its variant line-up and revising prices to intensify competition against the Maruti Suzuki Jimny. The latest iteration starts at an aggressive ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom), marking a strategic reduction compared to the outgoing model and positioning it as a more value-driven offering in the lifestyle SUV segment.
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Key Changes in the Thar Facelift
The refreshed Thar debuts with a distinct new front grille, dual-tone bumpers, and revised R18 alloy wheels, lending it a mildly upgraded road presence. Inside, Mahindra introduces an all-black dashboard, a new steering wheel, and six colour choices including two fresh options: Tango Red and Battleship Grey. Enhanced comfort comes courtesy of a sliding central armrest, rear AC vents for rear passengers, new door-mounted power windows, a rear wash wiper, internally operated fuel lid, and a dead pedal for automatics.
Variant Lineup and Feature Additions
The revised variant structure brings the AXT variant as a fresh entry point, followed by the LXT in both RWD and 4WD configurations. Key features now standard or newly added in upper trims include a 26.03 cm HD touchscreen (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay), rear-view camera, adventure-oriented Gen II statistics, and Tyre Direction Monitoring System. The variant portfolio also aligns with customer feedback by offering multiple petrol and diesel engine options paired with 6-speed manual and automatic gearboxes across RWD and 4WD layouts.
Pricing: Reduction and Comparison
The facelifted Thar’s base price is around ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 less than that of the outgoing model, reflecting both GST-driven adjustments and Mahindra's strategy to undercut rivals. In contrast, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny now starts at ₹12.32 lakh and tops out at ₹14.29 lakh. The Thar’s starting price is significantly lower, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts.
Facelift Approach: Conservative Moves
Despite the updates, Mahindra has retained most of the mechanicals and off-road capability, with visible changes mostly limited to aesthetics, interior trims, and tech enhancements. This conservative approach suggests a stable, evolutionary upgrade rather than a dramatic overhaul, allowing the Thar to continue appealing to both urban buyers and die-hard adventure fans without alienating its core audience.
Mahindra’s new Thar facelift delivers calculated upgrades, sharper pricing, and additional comfort, all while maintaining its off-road DNA and buyer focus, ensuring potent rivalry with the Jimny for India’s adventurous SUV-seekers.
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