Published : 31 August 2026
Read Time : 5 min
Author: Nikil Jonathan
Mahindra are preparing another update for the Thar 3-door. Spy shots of a new test mule give us a fair idea of what to expect from the upcoming facelift. The current Thar received a minor update in 2025, but the new model appears to feature more substantial exterior changes, including a redesigned front fascia and new alloy wheels.

The Thar 3-facelift, which is expected to launch in September 2026, is expected to command a premium over the current model. Although it will continue with the same petrol and diesel engine options, it could gain some of the feature updates already seen on newer Mahindra SUVs.
The latest test mule was heavily camouflaged around the front, suggesting that the Thar 3-door will receive a redesigned fascia. One of the earlier test mules featured a grille resembling the Thar Roxx, with 6 slots arranged in 2 rows. The latest test mule, however, appears to have a 5-slot grille with a small horizontal element on one side. This suggests that Mahindra are evaluating multiple grille designs. or that different editions of the Thar facelift could receive distinct styling elements.
The Thar facelift is also expected to get a redesigned front bumper and LED headlamps. New alloy wheels have been spotted as well. At the rear, the changes are expected to be more subtle. Mahindra could introduce revised bumpers and LED tail lamps.
The current Thar 3-door comes equipped with features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, cruise control, electronically adjustable ORVMs and a 6-speaker audio system.
The facelift could bring several additional features to make the Thar more competitive with newer lifestyle SUVs. These could include a digital driver's display, ventilated front seats and upgraded seat upholstery. The Thar could also receive additional safety equipment such as a 360-degree camera.
The upcoming Thar 3-door facelift is expected to retain the current petrol and diesel engine lineup. The 1.5L diesel is expected to remain the entry-level engine, while the larger 2.2L diesel and 2L turbo-petrol engines will continue to power the higher variants.
The 1.5L diesel is expected to remain available exclusively with rear-wheel drive, while the 2L turbo petrol and 2.2L diesel engines are likely to continue offering 4-wheel drive.
The current Mahindra Thar 3-door is priced from around Rs. 10.32 lakh to Rs. 18.00 lakh (ex-showroom). The facelift is expected to command a slight premium.
The Force Gurkha 3-door will remain its closest direct rival. The Maruti Suzuki Jimny also competes in the lifestyle SUV space, although it is smaller and positioned differently from the Thar.
Mahindra have not yet confirmed the launch timeline for the Thar 3-door facelift. However, the increasing number of test mule sightings suggests that development is well underway for a potential launch ahead of Diwali 2026.
Also Read: 2026 Mahindra Thar Facelift: Top 5 Expected Changes
Mahindra Scorpio Lifestyler Launch By April 2027; Price To Start Below Rs. 19.79 Lakh
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Content Writer
Nikil's a huge fan of classic cars, especially Italian beauties such as the Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint and the Iso Grifo. His love for cars and bikes originated when he first laid his eyes on a poster of the Ferrari F40 and the MV Agusta F4 when he was just a child. He also loves all things analogue, especially vintage cameras and turntables.

























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