If you're planning to bring home a Mahindra Thar, you may want to wait a little longer. Mahindra is reportedly preparing a facelift for its popular 3-door Thar, and the updated SUV is expected to receive several design and technology upgrades.

Two camouflaged test vehicles have reportedly been spotted testing together on Indian roads, increasing speculation around the upcoming model. The new Thar 3-door facelift could make its debut around Diwali 2026. Its styling is expected to take inspiration from the larger Thar Roxx, while the cabin could receive a significant technology upgrade.

The Front Design Could Get a Major Makeover

The biggest visual changes are expected at the front. Although the test vehicles were heavily camouflaged, several design updates could still be seen.

The facelifted Thar is expected to get round LED headlamps with redesigned LED DRLs, with the overall treatment reportedly inspired by the Thar Roxx.

The grille could also receive a new design. One test vehicle appeared to feature a grille similar to the Thar Roxx, while another was spotted with a wider and simpler grille featuring four horizontal slats.

The front bumper is also expected to be redesigned and could incorporate parking sensors.

New 18-Inch Alloy Wheels

The iconic side profile of the three-door Thar is expected to remain largely unchanged. Elements such as the chunky body cladding, doors, ORVMs and black grab handles are likely to continue on the facelifted model.

However, Mahindra could give the SUV a fresher appearance with new 18-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels. These wheels could add a more premium touch to the rugged SUV.

Changes are also expected at the rear. The updated Thar could receive a redesigned bumper and new LED taillights, while reverse parking sensors may also be offered.

Thar Could Get a Big Technology Upgrade Inside

While the basic dashboard layout may remain familiar, the facelift could bring several major feature upgrades.

The SUV is expected to get a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, potentially borrowed from the Thar Roxx. A 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster could also become part of the package.

The digital display could provide information such as navigation, driving data, mileage, off-road information and vehicle alerts.

Other premium additions could include ventilated seats and a Harman Kardon audio system, although the availability of these features may vary by variant.

Level 2 ADAS Could Be a Major Addition

One of the biggest expected upgrades could be the introduction of Level 2 ADAS.

If offered on the production model, the system could include features such as:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keep assist
• Adaptive cruise control

This would make the Thar considerably more technology-focused than the current version.

Engine Options Are Expected to Remain the Same

Despite the expected design and feature upgrades, the facelift may not bring major changes to the powertrain lineup.

The existing 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, 1.5-litre diesel and 2.2-litre diesel engines are expected to continue. Transmission choices could include six-speed manual and six-speed automatic options.

The Thar is also expected to retain its rear-wheel-drive configuration, while four-wheel drive could continue to be offered on selected petrol and diesel variants.

A More Premium Thar Could Be on the Way

The upcoming facelift appears to focus more on design, technology and comfort rather than major mechanical changes. With a refreshed front end, new alloy wheels, an upgraded cabin, larger displays and potentially Level 2 ADAS, the new Thar could offer a more premium experience while retaining its familiar rugged character.