FULL REVIEW: The 2025 Mahindra Thar Facelift – Rugged Charm Meets Modern Upgrades

Overview

The Mahindra Thar has long been a favorite among off-road enthusiasts looking for a blend of adventure and practicality. With the 2025 facelift, Mahindra aims to elevate this iconic 4×4 with modern features, refined aesthetics, and enhanced performance. This comprehensive review delves into what’s fresh and whether the upgrades merit your investment.

2025 Mahindra Thar

Base Price: $30,000
Transmission: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Horsepower: 150 HP
Torque: 320 Nm
Battery: N/A
Make: Mahindra
Model: Thar
Segment: SUV

Pros

• + Iconic design with modern touches
• + Enhanced off-road capabilities
• + Improved interior comfort and tech features

Cons

• – Limited cargo space
• – Fuel efficiency could be better
• – Some may find ride quality firm on highways

What’s New

• ✓ Updated exterior design with a bolder front grille
• ✓ Enhanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen
• ✓ Improved suspension for better on-road comfort

Exterior Design

The 2025 Mahindra Thar retains its rugged, muscular silhouette that has made it a standout in the off-roading community. However, the facelift introduces a revamped front fascia featuring a more aggressive grille and sleeker LED headlights that add a modern flair to its classic charm. The wider stance and sculpted fenders enhance its authoritative presence on the road, while the signature square wheel arches pay homage to its heritage.

Additionally, the rear end of the Thar sees a fresh look with redesigned tail lamps that integrate seamlessly into the overall design. The introduction of new color options, including a vibrant blue and a striking olive green, makes it appealing to a younger audience seeking individuality. The available hardtop option adds versatility, allowing for a more refined look while still catering to adventurous spirits who prefer the soft-top variant.
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Interior & Technology

Step inside the 2025 Thar, and you’re greeted by a transformed cabin that blends ruggedness with modern comfort. The dashboard features a more ergonomic layout, complete with quality materials and soft-touch surfaces that elevate the overall feel. The new infotainment system, now housed in a larger touchscreen display, provides intuitive navigation and connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This upgrade significantly enhances the user experience, making it easier to access your favorite apps and music while on the go.

Seating comfort is noticeably improved, with better cushioning and support, making long journeys more enjoyable. The rear seats offer sufficient space for passengers, though taller individuals might still find headroom a tad limited. Storage solutions have also been upgraded, providing more cubby holes and a center console that can accommodate personal items. However, the Thar’s cargo area remains somewhat constrained, especially with the soft-top variant, so it’s best suited for day trips rather than extensive road trips.

Tech Highlights

• ✓ 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• ✓ Premium audio system with 8 speakers
• ✓ Advanced off-road driving modes integrated into the system

Performance & Powertrain

Under the hood, the 2025 Mahindra Thar offers robust performance through its 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine, delivering 150 horsepower and a healthy torque of 320 Nm. This engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences. The all-wheel-drive system is standard, ensuring that the Thar excels in a variety of terrains, from rocky trails to slippery mud.

The upgraded suspension system, featuring a multi-link rear setup, provides improved handling on both off-road and on-road conditions. This means that while the Thar is designed to conquer nature, it doesn’t compromise on comfort during city driving. The ride quality is generally firm, which may not be to everyone’s taste, especially during highway cruising. However, enthusiasts will appreciate how well it tackles bumps and ruts without losing composure.

Driving Impressions

Taking the Thar for a spin is an exhilarating experience. The engine delivers power in a linear fashion, making it easy to manage in various driving conditions. On the highway, the Thar feels stable and confident, though wind noise can be noticeable at higher speeds, particularly with the soft-top model. Off the beaten path, the Thar shines, showcasing its impressive approach and departure angles, allowing it to tackle steep inclines and descents without hesitation.

The steering is responsive, providing good feedback, which is crucial when navigating rocky trails. The upgraded suspension not only enhances comfort but also ensures that the Thar maintains excellent traction, even when the terrain gets challenging. Overall, the driving experience is a testament to Mahindra’s commitment to creating a vehicle that is both fun to drive and capable of handling the rigors of off-roading.
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Safety & Efficiency

Safety features in the 2025 Thar have been enhanced, now offering a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Standard features include dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors, while higher trims come equipped with additional safety technologies like hill hold assist and electronic stability control. These improvements reflect Mahindra’s dedication to ensuring a safer driving environment for both passengers and drivers alike.

In terms of efficiency, the Thar’s fuel economy stands at approximately 15 km/l for the diesel variant. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient option in its class, the Thar’s performance capabilities and off-road prowess often outweigh this consideration for many buyers. However, potential owners should be aware that aggressive driving can lead to a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency.

Trims & Pricing

Verdict

The 2025 Mahindra Thar facelift impressively balances ruggedness and modernity. With significant upgrades to design, technology, and performance, it caters to both off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers. While it may not be the most spacious or fuel-efficient option, its capability and charm make it a worthy contender in the SUV market.

Torque Feed’s Verdict: The 2025 Mahindra Thar is an exciting upgrade for those seeking adventure without sacrificing modern comforts.