Mahindra is preparing a more comprehensive update for the popular Thar 3-door, and a newly spotted test mule has offered the first clear clues about what could change.
The upcoming Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift appears to go beyond the minor revisions introduced to the off-roader in 2025, with a redesigned front fascia expected to be the biggest visual highlight.
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While Mahindra has not yet announced an official launch timeline, the updated Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift is expected to arrive with a slight price premium over the current model. The existing Thar 3-door is priced between Rs. 10.32 lakh and Rs. 18 lakh (ex-showroom).
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Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift Gets a New Front Look
The latest test mule gives us a closer look at the changes planned for the front-end design. Previous spy shots had suggested that the facelifted Thar 3-door could receive an all-new grille inspired by the Thar Roxx, particularly its double-stacked six-slat design.
However, this latest test vehicle features a five-slot grille with a small horizontal extension on the right side. This could potentially make room for a badge or other design element. The difference between the grilles seen on various test mules suggests that Mahindra could eventually offer different grille designs depending on the variant or edition.
The test mule also gets new five-spoke alloy wheels, adding another visual change to the side profile. Apart from these updates, the overall boxy silhouette and rugged proportions of the Thar 3-door are expected to remain familiar.
Thar 3-Door Facelift Engine Options Likely to Remain Unchanged
Despite the exterior revisions, the Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift is expected to continue with the existing range of petrol and diesel engines.
The entry-level diesel engine is a 1.5-litre unit producing 119hp, while the larger 2.2-litre diesel engine develops 132hp. The petrol option is a 2.0-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine producing 152hp.
All three engines are expected to continue with a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard. The 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engines are also expected to retain the option of a 6-speed torque-converter automatic transmission.
The 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol variants can also be equipped with 4×4, while the 1.5-litre diesel is offered with a 4×2 rear-wheel-drive setup.
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Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift Expected Powertrain
| Engine | Power | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Diesel | 119hp | 6-speed MT | 4×2 |
| 2.2L Diesel | 132hp | 6-speed MT / AT | 4×2 / 4×4 |
| 2.0L Turbo-Petrol | 152hp | 6-speed MT / AT | 4×2 / 4×4 |
Electric Power Steering Could Be a Major Mechanical Change
One of the more important changes expected with the facelift could be the replacement of the current hydraulic power steering system with an electric power steering setup.
An electric system could make the Thar easier to manoeuvre at lower speeds while potentially offering a lighter steering feel in everyday city driving. The change could also improve the overall usability of the three-door Thar without altering its core off-road character.
What Else Can We Expect From the Thar Facelift?
At this stage, Mahindra has not revealed the complete list of changes. However, considering that the upcoming model appears to be a more substantial facelift, additional updates to the cabin, equipment and convenience features could also be introduced.
The company could use the facelift to bring some of the newer technology and design elements seen across its latest SUVs to the Thar 3-door. More details are likely to emerge as additional test vehicles are spotted closer to its launch.
Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift: Key Details
| Detail | Expected Information |
|---|---|
| Model | Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift |
| Expected Launch | Yet to be announced |
| Current Price | Rs. 10.32 lakh–Rs. 18 lakh |
| Expected Price | Slight premium over current model |
| Entry Diesel | 1.5L, 119hp |
| Larger Diesel | 2.2L, 132hp |
| Petrol | 2.0L Turbo, 152hp |
| Gearbox | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT |
| 4×4 | Available with 2.2L Diesel & 2.0L Petrol |
| Steering | Electric power steering expected |
| Exterior Updates | New grille, new alloy wheels |
| Body Style | 3-door SUV |
Auto India Daily Verdict
The upcoming Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift looks set to be more than a cosmetic refresh. The new grille, fresh alloy wheels and expected switch to electric power steering could bring meaningful changes to both its appearance and everyday usability.
However, the familiar 1.5-litre diesel, 2.2-litre diesel and 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engines are expected to continue. With the launch timeline still unknown, Mahindra could reveal more design and feature updates in the coming months.
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Raj Prajapati is a Senior Automotive Content Writer at AutoIndiaDaily. A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering, he leverages over four years of experience covering Indian car and bike launches, EV tech, and market dynamics to break down complex automotive regulations into simple consumer guides. Specialising in Indian motor vehicle laws, IRDAI updates, and ownership costs, Raj translates technical auto policies into actionable advice for everyday drivers.