KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Mahindra Thar 3-Door facelift spotted testing again, indicating a launch likely in 2026
- Feature upgrades expected, with Level-2 ADAS and more comfort tech likely to be added
- Design updates inspired by Thar Roxx, including new grille, circular LED headlamps and fresh alloy wheels.
The Mahindra Thar's journey isn't done just yet. While the SUV received a mild update in October 2025, fresh spy shots confirm that a proper facelift for the 3-door Thar is still under development. Test mules continue to be spotted on Indian roads, clearly indicating that Mahindra has held back the more substantial updates for a later launch, most likely sometime in 2026. This upcoming version appears set to bring visual cues from the newer Thar Roxx, along with meaningful feature upgrades. Read on to find out more details, but before that, make sure to join the 91wheels WhatsApp Community, specifically curated for petrolheads like us to keep up with the latest news and automotive updates.
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2026 Mahindra Thar 3-Door Facelift: Thar Roxx Design Influence Becomes Clear
Recent spy images suggest that the facelifted 3-door Mahindra Thar will borrow heavily from the design language of the Thar Roxx. Up front, the SUV is expected to feature round LED headlamps with C-shaped DRLs, paired with a redesigned grille that looks more contemporary than the current model. The alloy wheels also appear to be new, possibly shared with the Roxx, and could be larger than before to enhance the stance. At the rear, changes seem more restrained. Expect updated LED tail-lamp graphics rather than a complete redesign, keeping the Thar's rugged identity intact while adding a touch of modernity.
Interior & Features: More Comfort, More Tech
Inside the cabin, the facelift is likely to address one of the biggest criticisms of the current Thar, which has been its features. The updated model is expected to introduce ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming IRVM. Other likely additions include wireless charging, keyless entry with push-button start, and auto-folding ORVMs. More importantly, Mahindra may finally equip the 3-door Thar with Level-2 ADAS, a first for the model. This would significantly improve safety credentials and align the Thar with newer rivals that are already offering advanced driver assistance systems.
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Powertrain: Proven Engines To Continue
Mechanically, Mahindra is unlikely to reinvent the wheel. The facelifted Thar is expected to retain its existing engine lineup, which includes the 1.5-litre turbo-diesel, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, and 2.2-litre turbo-diesel options. Buyers should continue to get a choice of manual and automatic transmissions, along with both RWD and 4WD configurations, preserving the Thar's off-road credibility.
Given that the 2025 update arrived fairly recently, Mahindra appears to be spacing out its product strategy. The continued testing suggests that the Thar 3-door facelift could debut sometime in late 2026, with a slight possibility of spilling over into early 2027.
Verdict
The upcoming Mahindra Thar 3-door facelift looks set to be more than a cosmetic refresh. With updated styling inspired by the Thar Roxx, a richer feature list, and the possible addition of Level-2 ADAS, it promises to feel far more modern without losing its rugged charm. For enthusiasts holding out for a more well-rounded Thar, waiting for the facelift could prove to be well worth it.
