Mahindra Thar 2025 Facelift – 5 Powerful Reasons Why the Iconic SUV Gets Smarter Yet Divisive

Mahindra Thar
Mahindra Thar 2025 Facelift – 5 Powerful Reasons Why the Iconic SUV Gets Smarter Yet Divisive

The Mahindra Thar has always been more than just a vehicle; it’s a lifestyle statement. Since its rebirth in 2020, this rugged off-roader has captured the hearts of adventure seekers, city drivers, and SUV lovers alike. Now, in 2025, Mahindra has introduced a facelifted version of the Thar, promising smarter features, modern design tweaks, and improved tech.

But along with its upgrades come mixed reactions—while some applaud the changes, purists argue that Mahindra is moving too far away from the Thar’s old-school DNA.

So, what exactly makes the Mahindra Thar 2025 Facelift both smarter and divisive? Let’s explore the 5 powerful reasons behind its latest evolution.


Refreshed but Familiar Design

The 2025 facelift stays true to the iconic Mahindra Thar design, with its boxy silhouette, bold stance, and rugged character. However, Mahindra has introduced:

  • Redesigned front grille with subtle chrome touches
  • Sleeker LED headlamps and DRLs
  • Redesigned alloy wheels for a modern yet tough appeal
  • Tweaked bumpers for better aerodynamics

While fans love the premium touches, hardcore off-road enthusiasts feel the facelifted Thar is drifting too close to being an “urban SUV” rather than a pure off-roader.

👉 Verdict: Smarter look but debatable identity.


Smarter Tech and Infotainment

One of the biggest upgrades in the Mahindra Thar 2025 facelift is its technology package. The new model features:

  • A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
  • 360-degree camera with off-road assist
  • Connected car technology with remote monitoring
  • Enhanced sound system for an immersive driving experience

For urban drivers and tech-savvy millennials, this is a game-changer. But purists argue that the Thar is meant to be rugged and raw, not a tech-laden SUV.

👉 Verdict: Smarter connectivity, but divisive for traditionalists.


Powertrain and Performance Options

The Mahindra Thar 2025 retains its strong engine lineup but introduces some subtle improvements:

  • 2.0L turbo-petrol with refined performance and better fuel efficiency
  • 2.2L mHawk diesel, tuned for smoother low-end torque
  • Updated 6-speed automatic and manual gearbox options
  • Improved NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) levels

Off-road capability remains intact with 4×4 variants, low-range transfer case, and locking differentials. However, Mahindra is rumored to introduce a 2WD automatic variant to cater to urban buyers—a move that might upset hardcore off-road lovers.

👉 Verdict: Smarter choices but controversial among enthusiasts.


Improved Comfort and Practicality

One of the key criticisms of earlier Thar models was their limited practicality for everyday use. The 2025 facelift addresses this with:

  • More spacious cabin layout with improved ergonomics
  • Better rear seat cushioning and adjustable recline
  • Additional boot space thanks to clever design tweaks
  • Automatic climate control for added comfort
  • Multiple USB-C charging ports and wireless charging pad

While this makes the Thar more family-friendly and city-ready, purists fear it’s becoming just another compact SUV instead of retaining its “adventure-only” character.

👉 Verdict: Smarter usability, but a divisive compromise.


Safety Upgrades for a Smarter Drive

Safety has become a top priority for car buyers, and Mahindra has responded well with the Thar 2025 facelift. The SUV now offers:

  • 6 airbags
  • Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS – optional in top trims)
  • Hill descent control and hill hold assist
  • Improved chassis strength
  • ISOFIX child seat anchors

These features make the new Thar far more competitive against rivals like the Maruti Jimny and Force Gurkha. Still, some enthusiasts argue that too much emphasis on electronics could affect the Thar’s old-school reliability.

👉 Verdict: Smarter protection but divisive modernization.


Why the Mahindra Thar 2025 Facelift is Divisive

The Mahindra Thar 2025 is undoubtedly a smarter, safer, and more practical SUV. It brings modern comforts that appeal to urban buyers while retaining its core off-roading DNA. However, the divisiveness lies in how different groups perceive the upgrades:

  • Urban buyers → Love the premium features, comfort, and tech
  • Adventure enthusiasts → Appreciate the performance but worry about over-modernization
  • Thar purists → Believe Mahindra is diluting the raw, no-nonsense personality of the SUV

This split in opinion makes the facelifted Thar one of the most talked-about SUV launches of 2025.


Booking and Buying Options

If you’re planning to book the Mahindra Thar 2025 facelift, keep an eye on:

  • Mahindra’s official website for launch offers and customization packages
  • CarDekho, ZigWheels, and AutoPortal for reviews and comparisons
  • Finance options from Mahindra Finance and other leading banks

Many dealers are also offering pre-booking discounts and exchange bonuses, especially if you own the older Thar.


Final Thoughts: Is the Mahindra Thar 2025 Worth It?

The Mahindra Thar 2025 facelift shows how far this iconic SUV has come. It’s not just a rugged off-roader anymore—it’s a smarter, safer, and more versatile lifestyle vehicle. While some purists may feel nostalgic for the simplicity of older versions, the reality is that Mahindra has managed to balance heritage with modernization.

If you’re someone who wants an SUV that can conquer mountains on weekends and still be comfortable in city traffic, the facelifted Thar might just be the perfect fit.

👉 But if you’re a hardcore off-roader who values rawness over refinement, you may find the changes a little too polished.

Either way, one thing is clear: the Mahindra Thar continues to be the SUV that sparks emotions, conversations, and debates—cementing its place as India’s most iconic off-road lifestyle vehicle.

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