A camouflaged test mule of the Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift has been spotted testing in India, indicating that Mahindra is preparing another update for its popular off-road SUV. The latest sighting suggests that the upcoming version could borrow several design elements from the newer Mahindra Thar Roxx.
The Thar 3-door was last updated in October 2025, but fresh test sightings hint at further visual refinements and minor updates ahead of a potential launch in the coming months.
Also Read: Mahindra Offers March 2026: Discounts Up to ₹4 Lakh on XUV400, XUV700 and Scorpio
Roxx-Inspired Design Changes
The test mule reveals noticeable styling revisions, particularly at the front. The SUV appears to feature circular LED headlamps with C-shaped daytime running lights, replacing the halogen setup seen on the current version.
The grille design also seems to adopt a two-part layout similar to the Thar Roxx, along with subtle changes to the front bumper and turn indicators. These updates are likely aimed at aligning the Thar’s design language with Mahindra’s newer models.
At the rear, the SUV gets updated LED tail-lamps with revised detailing, again resembling elements seen on the Roxx. The side profile remains largely unchanged, although new alloy wheel designs are expected.
Powertrain Likely to Remain Unchanged
Mechanically, the updated Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift is expected to continue with the existing petrol and diesel engine options.
These include:
- 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (152hp, 300Nm)
- 2.2-litre diesel engine (132hp, 300Nm)
- 1.5-litre diesel engine (119hp, 300Nm)
Transmission options are likely to remain the same, with a 6-speed manual offered as standard and a 6-speed automatic available with select engines.
The SUV is also expected to retain its 4WD system on the petrol and larger diesel variants, while certain configurations may continue to offer rear-wheel drive.
What This Update Could Bring
The updates appear to focus primarily on design and visual appeal, rather than major mechanical changes. By incorporating elements from the Thar Roxx, Mahindra may be looking to:
- Refresh the Thar’s styling
- Maintain its appeal in a competitive lifestyle SUV segment
- Align the product with newer design trends
Such incremental updates are common for models with strong market demand, allowing manufacturers to keep the product relevant without a complete redesign.
Also Read: Mahindra BE.07 Spied Testing in India for the First Time, Launch Expected in 2027
Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift: Expected Pricing and Launch Timeline
The updated Thar 3-door is expected to be priced slightly higher than the current model, which ranges from around ₹9.99 lakh to ₹17.19 lakh (ex-showroom).
Initial estimates suggest a starting price of around ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom) for the facelifted version. While an exact launch date has not been confirmed, the SUV is likely to debut in the coming months.
Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift: Key Expected Updates at a Glance
| Area | Expected Changes |
|---|---|
| Front Design | LED headlamps, C-shaped DRLs, new grille |
| Rear Design | Updated LED tail-lamps |
| Wheels | New alloy designs |
| Engines | Same petrol and diesel options |
| Transmission | 6MT and 6AT options |
| Drivetrain | 4WD and RWD configurations |
What It Means for Buyers
For prospective buyers, the upcoming update is likely to bring improved styling and a more modern design, without altering the Thar’s core off-road capabilities.
Those considering the current model may want to evaluate whether to wait for the updated version, especially if the design changes are a priority.
Conclusion
The latest spy shots of the Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift suggest that Mahindra is preparing a design-focused update inspired by the Thar Roxx, while retaining the SUV’s existing mechanical setup.
With a possible launch expected in the coming months, the updated Thar is likely to continue catering to buyers looking for a rugged, lifestyle-oriented off-road vehicle with modern styling cues.
Disclaimer: The information regarding the Mahindra Thar 3 Door Facelift is based on spy images and available reports at the time of publication. Final specifications, features, pricing, and launch timelines may vary when the model is officially unveiled by the manufacturer.
Also Read: Mahindra Vision S Spotted Testing Again Ahead of 2027 Launch
Raj Prajapati is a Senior Automotive Content Writer at AutoIndiaDaily. A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering, he has over four years of experience covering car and bike launches, EV updates, price changes, and key developments in the Indian automobile industry.
