As discussed earlier, Mahindra has launched the new Thar OG in India at an introductory starting price of Rs. 10.32 lakh ex-showroom. The updated three-door SUV replaces the earlier Thar and brings more than a simple cosmetic refresh. It now gets a new platform, improved suspension, electric power steering, better safety features and more powerful engine options.

The Thar OG still keeps the familiar short-wheelbase, rugged shape that made the Thar popular. But underneath, Mahindra has made changes to make it easier to drive in the city and more stable on highways, while keeping its off-road character alive.

What is new in Mahindra Thar OG

The biggest update is the M_Glyde 4G platform, which was first seen on the larger Thar Roxx. Mahindra says this platform improves stiffness and driving confidence. The SUV also gets DAVINCI frequency-dependent dampers, rear Pentalink suspension with Watts Link and electric power steering.

In simple words, the new Thar OG should feel less bouncy and easier to control than the older Thar, especially during daily driving. The older Thar had charm, but many buyers found it firm and less comfortable on broken city roads.

Mahindra has also added a redesigned grille, updated bumpers, OG badging, new tail-lamps and fresh alloy wheels. The top ZXT trim gets LED projector headlamps with C-shaped DRLs and LED fog lamps.

Price and variants

As per Mahindra, the Thar OG starts at Rs. 10.32 lakh and goes up to Rs. 18.99 lakh ex-showroom. Deliveries are expected to begin from October 11, 2026, and the introductory prices are valid till November 30, 2026.

The SUV is available in AXT, LXT and ZXT trims. The base AXT comes only with the 1.5-litre diesel manual rear-wheel-drive setup. LXT and ZXT variants offer more engine and gearbox choices.

Engine options include a 1.5-litre diesel, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel. Depending on the variant, buyers can choose manual or automatic gearbox, and RWD or 4WD.

Features and safety updates

The cabin gets Truffle Brown leatherette upholstery, rear armrests with cupholders, rear AC vents, push-button start, wireless charging and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on selected variants.

Safety has improved too. The ZXT trim gets six airbags, all-wheel disc brakes, tyre pressure monitoring, rear camera and front parking sensors. ESP with rollover mitigation, traction control and hill-hold assist are offered from the AXT trim onwards.

Difference from previous Thar

Compared with the older Thar, the Thar OG gets a stronger platform, better ride setup, electric steering, more features and stronger safety equipment. The design still looks like a Thar, but the driving experience should feel more refined.

The biggest practical improvement is comfort. Earlier, the Thar was more of a weekend SUV. The OG version looks better prepared for people who want to use it more often.

Thar OG vs Thar Roxx

The Thar OG is a three-door, four-seater lifestyle SUV. The Thar Roxx is a five-door, five-seater SUV with better rear-seat access, more space and a more family-friendly layout.

If you mostly drive alone or with one passenger and want the classic Thar feel, the Thar OG makes sense. If you need rear-seat comfort, easier entry, more practicality and family use, the Thar Roxx is the better pick.

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Mahindra Thar facelift is expected to launch in India tomorrow, September 22, 2026. The 3-door lifestyle SUV already has a strong fan base, but this update could make it more comfortable for daily use while keeping its rugged identity alive.

The Thar has never been a typical family SUV. People buy it for its road presence, off-road ability and emotional appeal. With the facelift, Mahindra is expected to add more modern touches, especially in design and cabin features.

What could change in the new Thar facelift

As per Autocar India, the updated Mahindra Thar is expected to get styling changes inspired by the Thar Roxx. Spy shots and teasers suggest a revised front grille, new LED projector headlamps with C-shaped DRLs, updated tail-lamps and fresh alloy wheels.

These changes may not completely alter the Thar’s character, but they can make it look sharper and more current. For example, a buyer who likes the Thar’s old-school boxy shape may still get that feel, but with better lighting and a cleaner front design.

Expected interior and feature upgrades

The cabin is where buyers may feel the real difference. Reports suggest the Thar facelift could get an updated infotainment system, a revised instrument cluster and possibly a 360-degree camera. Some reports also mention modern convenience features that could make city driving easier.

The current Thar already received updates in 2025, including a 26.03 cm HD infotainment screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, rear AC vents, rear-view camera, Type-C USB ports and a revised centre console, as per Mahindra’s official release. The 2026 facelift may build on that base.

A 360-degree camera, if offered, would be useful because the Thar’s tall body and upright shape can make tight parking tricky for new drivers. Better lighting and updated cabin tech would also help it feel less basic for the price.

Engine options are likely to continue

Mahindra is not expected to make major mechanical changes. CarDekho and Autocar India both suggest that the Thar facelift could continue with the existing engine options.

These may include the 1.5-litre diesel, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines. Transmission choices are expected to include manual and automatic options, depending on the engine and variant. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive choices are also expected to continue.

This is good news for buyers because the Thar’s current powertrain range already covers different needs. The rear-wheel drive diesel suits city users who want the Thar look at a lower cost. The 4×4 versions are better for people who actually plan weekend trails, rough roads or mountain drives.

Expected price range

The Mahindra Thar facelift price is expected to start around Rs. 11 lakh and may go up to nearly Rs. 18.50 lakh ex-showroom, as per Autocar India. CarWale expects a slightly wider range of around Rs. 9.50 lakh to Rs. 17 lakh, while CarDekho expects around Rs. 11 lakh to Rs. 18 lakh.

A small price increase is likely because the facelift is expected to bring design and feature upgrades. The final price will matter a lot, especially for entry-level buyers who want the Thar badge but do not want to cross into more expensive SUV territory.

Competitors and buying view

The Mahindra Thar’s closest direct rival is the Force Gurkha 3-door. Buyers may also compare it with the Maruti Jimny, Force Gurkha 5-door and Mahindra Thar Roxx. However, the Thar has a stronger lifestyle image than most of them.

If you want a practical family SUV, options like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Tata Nexon or Mahindra XUV 3XO may make more sense. But if you want style, adventure appeal and 4×4 character, the Thar facelift will remain a strong choice.

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