Mahindra Thar Facelift Launches at ₹11 Lakh With Updated Features

Mahindra is set to roll out the 2026 Thar facelift tomorrow, with a base price of about ₹11 lakh. The launch, scheduled for September 22, will see dealers in major metros first, followed by tier‑2 cities.

The exterior gets a facelift that feels earned rather than a full redesign. Dual‑tone alloy wheels, a revised grille, and C‑shaped LED DRLs give the Thar a sharper look, while the rear lamp cluster gets a new layout. Rumors of a soft‑top return have surfaced, hinting at a nod to nostalgia that could appeal to off‑road purists. In comparison, the Jimny sticks to its classic, no‑frills styling, and the Gurkha offers a more rugged aesthetic.

Inside, the Thar gets a noticeable lift in tech. A 10.25‑inch digital driver display will sit beside the existing infotainment screen, and automatic climate control is expected to replace the manual knobs. A 360‑degree camera, ventilated front seats, and wireless phone charging are on the horizon, although unconfirmed. Leatherette upholstery and a refreshed interior trim could add a touch of class, while the standard Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, cruise control and six‑speaker audio remain.

Under the hood, nothing dramatic changes. The 2.0‑litre turbo‑petrol delivers 152 hp and 300 Nm, with an automatic version bumping torque to 320 Nm. The 1.5‑litre diesel offers 118 hp and 300 Nm, and the 2.2‑litre diesel tops at 132 hp and 300 Nm. All engines come with a six‑speed manual; the 2.0‑litre petrol and 2.2‑litre diesel also offer a six‑speed automatic. The 1.5‑litre diesel is rear‑wheel drive only, the 2.2‑litre diesel four‑wheel drive, and the petrol variants are available in both layouts. The price range of ₹11‑19 lakh keeps the Thar competitive against the Jimny’s ₹9‑12 lakh range and the Gurkha’s ₹15‑20 lakh bracket. With the launch set for tomorrow, buyers should watch dealer inventory roll‑out and confirm the final variant pricing before making a decision.