For many SUV buyers, the three-door Mahindra Thar has a charm that is hard to ignore. Its short body, tall stance and simple shape have made it a popular choice for people who want a proper lifestyle SUV. But the model is now due for a bigger update. New test vehicles have been spotted again, giving a better look at what Mahindra is preparing.
The latest sighting shows two camouflaged Thar SUVs being tested together. The front and rear sections are covered, but several details can still be seen. The test vehicles also carry new alloy wheels.
The front section is expected to receive several changes. The headlights now appear to use a circular design with LED daytime running lights. The setup has similarities with the larger Thar Roxx.
There is also a new grille design. Earlier test vehicles had shown a grille closer to the Thar Roxx, while this latest SUV gets a chunkier five-slot unit.
The latest test vehicle has 18-inch alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design. Previous sightings had shown a different wheel pattern, so the final design could vary between versions.
The dashboard layout is expected to follow the existing Thar design, but Mahindra could add some useful equipment borrowed from the Thar Roxx. A larger 12.3-inch touchscreen is expected to be one of the main additions. A 10.25-inch digital instrument display could also be offered.
The cabin may also gain ventilated front seats and a Harman Kardon sound system. Another feature that has been reported is Level 2 ADAS.
If offered, the safety package could include:
An electric power steering system is also expected to replace the current hydraulic setup.
Engine choices are likely to stay familiar
Mahindra is expected to continue with the existing petrol and diesel engines. The range could include a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, a 1.5-litre diesel and a 2.2-litre diesel.
The 1.5-litre diesel is expected to remain available with a six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive. The larger diesel and petrol engines could continue with both manual and automatic gearbox options.
Four-wheel drive should also be offered with selected engine and gearbox combinations.
Mahindra has not confirmed the launch date yet. The facelift is expected to arrive in the coming months and could cost more than the current Thar, which is priced from Rs 10.32 lakh to Rs 18 lakh, ex-showroom.
The updated three-door Thar could make the SUV more appealing to buyers who want its familiar character but also expect newer features and technology.
