Mahindra Thar Facelift Variant-Wise Features Breakdown

Mahindra recently launched the much-awaited facelift of the Thar, and it introduces subtle updates to India's beloved off-roader.

Facelift Overview

The most obvious changes in this facelift include a body-coloured grille, dual-tone bumper, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, rear AC vents, and a new steering wheel borrowed from the Thar Roxx. Two new colour shades - Battleship Grey and Tango Red, have been introduced as well.

Starting at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi), the updated Thar retains its rugged charm with 226 mm ground clearance, four-seater configuration, and versatile powertrains. Boot space is 150 litres with all seats in place, expandable up to 600 litres with the rear seats folded. 

Engine options include a 1.5-litre diesel (117 BHP, 300 Nm, manual only), 2.0-litre turbo-petrol (150 BHP, 320 Nm auto/300 Nm manual), and 2.2-litre diesel (130 BHP, 300 Nm), paired to a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic. 

Both variants share core safety features like dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold/descent control, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX seat mounts, and a new rearview camera, while higher trims add TPMS. The Thar received a 4-star Global NCAP rating when it was tested back in 2020. 

The Thar facelift comes in two main trims - the entry-level AXT and the feature-loaded LXT, with seven sub-variants classified by engine, transmission, and drivetrain (RWD or 4WD) options. 

AXT Variant

At ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base RWD diesel manual, the AXT is geared toward budget buyers prioritising core capability over features. It is a standalone variant, only available with the 1.5-litre diesel engine (117 BHP, 300 Nm), paired to a six-speed manual, and RWD drivetrain, offering an entry into the Thar experience.

The AXT variant features 16-inch steel wheels with all-terrain tyres, round halogen headlamps, a new body-coloured six-slat grille (replacing the previously black one), wide wheel arches with indicators, rectangular LED tail lamps, and a tailgate-mounted spare steel wheel with cover. Side steps aid entry, but the lack of door cladding and alloy wheels keeps its boxy profile simple and functional.

Inside, the all-black cabin uses hard but durable plastics, black fabric upholstery with vinyl edges, a height-adjustable driver seat, adjustable front headrests, and A-pillar grab handles for both occupants. Manual AC, front power windows, and manual ORVMs are standard, with a basic analogue instrument cluster. 

Storage is limited to a small glovebox, door pockets, centre tray, and two cupholders. Charging includes front and rear 12V sockets and USB Type-A/C ports. Rear seats offer good headroom but tight legroom for two passengers, with adjustable headrests, non-openable windows, and no central armrest (optional accessory). The facelift adds rear AC vents, a sliding front armrest, door-mounted window controls, and an interior fuel lid button for easier access. No infotainment system is included, relying on a basic MID. Ingress/egress is tricky due to height, but the side steps help. 

This trim suits customizers or urban explorers on a budget, with stiff ride quality but a rugged build.

LXT Variant

Compared to AXT the LXT starts at ₹12.19 lakh for the RWD diesel manual and topping out at ₹16.99 lakh for the 4WD diesel automatic, the LXT offers full versatility across powertrains, including RWD/4WD, manual/auto, and all three engines. The 2.2-litre diesel offers an impressive 300 Nm torque for both off-road adventures and urban settings. Automatic variants add a dead pedal for additional convenience.

Key upgrades from the AXT include 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-tone front and rear bumpers, electrically adjustable ORVMs, a rear wiper/washer, and a full-size alloy spare wheel (steel on some RWD models). 

The interior builds on the AXT's black theme - using fabric seats, a new steering wheel (from the Thar Roxx), and enhanced ergonomics like cruise control and steering-mounted audio controls. The 10.25-inch touchscreen is the highlight, supporting wired Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, navigation, off-road gauges, and a six-speaker system. A colored MID replaces the basic one. Storage, charging, and rear seating (now with vents) remain unchanged. Overall, the cabin feels more refined, though plastics stay hard.

Apart from the standard safety features on the AXT, this variant adds TPMS. 4WD models shine with shift-on-fly, rear differential lock, and brake-limited slip differential for serious off-roading. The LXT trims target enthusiasts seeking tech and performance without sacrificing the Thar's fun factor.

Variant-Wise Pricing Overview

The 2025 Thar facelift is largely unchanged, carrying over the original's spirit with practical tweaks, making the AXT a compelling no-frills option and the LXT a well-equipped choice for those wanting the full package. For exact on-road prices in your city, visit your nearest Mahindra dealership.