New Mahindra Thar : In the world of off-road vehicles, few names evoke as much excitement and respect as the Mahindra Thar. With its rugged charm and go-anywhere attitude, the Thar has long been the darling of adventure enthusiasts and off-road aficionados. But now, Mahindra has taken this iconic vehicle to new heights with the 2025 model, blending its legendary capabilities with modern comfort and technology. Let’s dive deep into what makes the new Mahindra Thar a game-changer in the SUV market.
A Brief History: The New Mahindra Thar Legacy
Before we explore the marvels of the 2025 model, it’s worth taking a quick trip down memory lane. The Mahindra Thar, first introduced in 2010, was a spiritual successor to the Mahindra MM540, which itself was inspired by the Willys Jeep. From its inception, the Thar was designed to be a no-nonsense, capable off-roader that could tackle the toughest terrains while providing a visceral driving experience.
Over the years, the Thar has seen several updates, each building upon its strengths while addressing the evolving needs of its loyal fanbase. The 2020 model was a significant leap forward, introducing modern amenities without compromising the Thar’s core DNA. And now, with the 2025 model, Mahindra has once again raised the bar, creating a vehicle that’s as at home in the urban jungle as it is in the wilderness.
Exterior Design: Rugged Meets Refined
A Familiar Face with a Modern Twist
The 2025 Mahindra Thar retains its iconic boxy silhouette, a design choice that pays homage to its heritage while exuding an undeniable presence on the road. The front grille, a hallmark of the Thar, has been subtly redesigned. It now features a more pronounced seven-slot design, reminiscent of its ancestors but with a contemporary flair. The headlights have been upgraded to full LED units, providing better illumination and a more premium look.
Muscular Proportions
One of the most striking aspects of the new Thar is its muscular stance. The wheel arches are more pronounced, housing larger 18-inch alloy wheels as standard (with the option to upgrade to 20-inch wheels on higher trims). These not only enhance the Thar’s off-road capabilities but also give it a more imposing presence on the road.
The side profile reveals new character lines that run the length of the vehicle, adding a touch of sophistication to its rugged appearance. The doors now feature flush-fitting handles, a small but significant upgrade that improves both aesthetics and aerodynamics.
Versatile Roof Options
Mahindra has listened to its customers and now offers three roof options for the 2025 Thar:
- A removable hardtop for those who want the best of both worlds
- A fixed hardtop for buyers prioritizing comfort and security
- A soft top for the purists who want that authentic open-air experience
This level of customization allows buyers to tailor their Thar to their specific needs and preferences.
Rear-End Improvements
The rear of the 2025 Thar has also seen significant upgrades. The tailgate-mounted spare wheel, a Thar trademark, remains but now features a more robust and stylish cover. The taillights have been redesigned with a distinctive LED signature, improving visibility and adding a touch of modernity to the rear fascia.
Interior: Where Comfort Meets Capability
Step inside the 2025 Mahindra Thar, and you’ll immediately notice the quantum leap in interior quality and design. Mahindra has managed to create a space that’s both functional for off-roading and comfortable for daily driving.
Premium Materials and Finishes
The dashboard is now wrapped in soft-touch materials, with genuine leather accents on higher trims. The center console features a sleek, waterfall design that houses the new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The air vents have been redesigned with a more angular look, complementing the Thar’s exterior design language.
Spacious and Versatile Seating
One of the biggest improvements in the 2025 model is the seating arrangement. The new Thar offers two seating configurations:
- A five-seater layout with a rear bench seat
- A four-seater layout with individual bucket seats in the rear
Both options provide significantly more space and comfort than previous models. The seats themselves are now more supportive, with better bolstering for those off-road adventures. Higher trims offer ventilated front seats, a welcome addition for hot summer days.
Practical and Stylish Features
The 2025 Thar doesn’t skimp on practical features. The instrument cluster is now a fully digital 7-inch display, providing all the necessary information at a glance. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and features controls for the infotainment system and cruise control.
Storage has been greatly improved, with larger door pockets, a spacious center console, and even a cooled glovebox on higher trims. The rear cargo area has also been redesigned for better usability, with a flat load floor and tie-down points for securing gear.
Technology: Bringing the New Mahindra Thar into the 21st Century
One of the most significant areas of improvement in the 2025 Mahindra Thar is its technology offerings. Mahindra has equipped the new Thar with a suite of features that were once the domain of premium SUVs.
Advanced Infotainment
At the heart of the Thar’s tech upgrades is the new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This high-resolution display is not only larger than the previous model’s but also more responsive and feature-packed. It comes standard with:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Built-in navigation with off-road maps
- Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices
- Voice command functionality
The system also includes Mahindra’s AdventureStat feature, which provides real-time information on vehicle tilt angle, compass, altimeter, and other off-road-specific data.
Premium Sound System
Audiophiles will appreciate the new Harman Kardon sound system available on higher trims. With 9 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, including a subwoofer, it delivers an immersive audio experience whether you’re crawling over rocks or cruising down the highway.
Connectivity Features
The 2025 Thar comes with Mahindra’s Blue Sense+ connected car technology. This allows owners to:
- Remotely start the engine and pre-cool the cabin
- Lock and unlock the doors
- Check vehicle status (fuel level, tire pressure, etc.)
- Receive maintenance alerts
- Track the vehicle’s location
All these features can be accessed through a smartphone app, adding an extra layer of convenience and security.
Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
Under the hood, the 2025 Mahindra Thar offers a choice of powertrains that cater to different driving preferences while maintaining the vehicle’s off-road prowess.
Petrol Power
The 2.0-liter mStallion TGDi petrol engine has been further refined for the 2025 model. It now produces 150 bhp and 320 Nm of torque, a slight increase from the previous version. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery and responsive nature, making it ideal for both city driving and highway cruising.
Diesel Dominance
For those who prefer diesel power, the 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine remains a strong option. In the 2025 model, it’s been tuned to produce 130 bhp and 320 Nm of torque. This engine shines in off-road situations, providing excellent low-end torque for crawling over obstacles.
Transmission Options
Both engines can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic. The manual offers precise shifts and a more engaging driving experience, while the automatic provides smooth, effortless gear changes and is particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic.
Four-Wheel Drive System
The 2025 Thar continues to offer a robust four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case. What’s new is the addition of an electronic locking differential on both axles, significantly enhancing the Thar’s off-road capabilities. This system allows for better traction in extreme conditions, making the new Thar even more capable than its predecessors.
Improved Fuel Efficiency
Despite the increase in power, Mahindra has managed to improve fuel efficiency across the board. The petrol engine now delivers a claimed 12.5 km/l in city driving and 15.2 km/l on the highway. The diesel engine is even more frugal, offering 14.3 km/l in the city and 17.1 km/l on the highway.
Off-Road Capabilities: Conquering Any Terrain
While the 2025 Mahindra Thar has certainly become more refined and city-friendly, it hasn’t forgotten its roots. In fact, its off-road capabilities have been significantly enhanced.
Improved Approach and Departure Angles
The new Thar boasts impressive approach and departure angles of 41.8 degrees and 36.8 degrees, respectively. This is an improvement over the previous model and allows the Thar to tackle steeper inclines and declines with ease.
Increased Ground Clearance
With a ground clearance of 226mm, the 2025 Thar can clear most obstacles without breaking a sweat. This increased clearance also contributes to a impressive water wading depth of 650mm, making river crossings a breeze.
Advanced Traction Control
The new Thar comes with an advanced traction control system that includes multiple terrain modes:
- Sand
- Mud
- Rock
- Snow
Each mode adjusts the vehicle’s parameters to provide optimal traction in different conditions.
Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold
For tackling steep gradients, the 2025 Thar is equipped with both hill descent control and hill hold assist. These features make navigating tricky slopes much safer and more manageable, even for less experienced off-road drivers.
Safety: Prioritizing Protection
Mahindra has made significant strides in the safety department with the 2025 Thar, equipping it with a host of features that were previously unavailable.
Robust Structure
The Thar’s body structure has been reinforced with high-strength steel, providing better protection in the event of a collision. The vehicle has also been designed to meet the latest crash test norms.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
For the first time, the Thar comes with ADAS features, including:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind Spot Detection
These features not only enhance safety but also make long drives more comfortable and less fatiguing.
Comprehensive Airbag System
The 2025 Thar comes standard with six airbags:
- Dual front airbags
- Side airbags
- Curtain airbags
This comprehensive airbag system provides protection for all occupants in various types of collisions.
Other Safety Features
Additional safety features include:
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- 360-degree camera system (on higher trims)
Pricing and Variants: A Thar for Every Budget
The 2025 Mahindra Thar is available in multiple variants, catering to different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing structure:
- AX Series (Base Model):
- Petrol Manual: ₹11.25 lakh
- Diesel Manual: ₹11.99 lakh
- AX(O) Series:
- Petrol Manual: ₹12.80 lakh
- Petrol Automatic: ₹14.25 lakh
- Diesel Manual: ₹13.50 lakh
- Diesel Automatic: ₹15.00 lakh
- LX Series:
- Petrol Manual: ₹14.25 lakh
- Petrol Automatic: ₹15.50 lakh
- Diesel Manual: ₹14.95 lakh
- Diesel Automatic: ₹16.20 lakh
- LX Signature Edition (Top Model):
- Petrol Automatic: ₹17.50 lakh
- Diesel Automatic: ₹18.25 lakh
(All prices are ex-showroom, Delhi)
While these prices represent an increase over the previous model, the additional features, improved performance, and enhanced comfort more than justify the premium.
Comparisons with Previous Models: A Quantum Leap Forward
When comparing the 2025 Mahindra Thar with its predecessors, it’s clear that this new model represents a quantum leap forward in almost every aspect.
Design Evolution
While the 2020 model was a significant improvement over the original Thar in terms of design, the 2025 model takes things even further. The new model retains the iconic silhouette but adds a level of sophistication and modernity that was missing in earlier versions. The LED lighting, larger wheels, and refined body lines give the 2025 Thar a more premium appearance without sacrificing its rugged charm.
Interior Comfort
The interior is perhaps where the most dramatic improvements can be seen. The original Thar was spartan at best, focusing purely on functionality. The 2020 model introduced some modern amenities, but the 2025 Thar is in a different league altogether. The use of premium materials, the advanced infotainment system, and the improved seating comfort make the new Thar a vehicle you can genuinely use every day, not just for weekend adventures.
Technology Integration
In terms of technology, there’s simply no comparison. The original Thar was as basic as they come, while the 2020 model introduced some modern features like a touchscreen infotainment system. The 2025 model, however, is packed with tech that you’d expect to find in premium SUVs costing twice as much. From the digital instrument cluster to the advanced driver assistance systems, the new Thar is thoroughly modern.
Performance and Efficiency
While all generations of the Thar have been capable off-roaders, the 2025 model offers a level of refinement and on-road performance that its predecessors couldn’t match. The engines are more powerful yet more efficient, and the addition of an automatic transmission option makes it much more accessible to a wider range of drivers.
Safety Features
Safety is another area where the 2025 Thar stands head and shoulders above its predecessors. The original Thar had only basic safety features, while the 2020 model introduced essentials like ABS and airbags. The 2025 model, with its ADAS features and comprehensive airbag system, offers a level of safety that’s on par with much more expensive vehicles.
Standout Features: What Makes the 2025 Thar Special
While the entire vehicle has seen significant improvements, there are several standout features that make the 2025 Mahindra Thar truly special:
- Versatile Roof Options: The ability to choose between a removable hardtop, fixed hardtop, or soft top allows buyers to customize their Thar to their specific needs and preferences.
- Advanced 4×4 System: The new electronic locking differentials and multiple terrain modes make the 2025 Thar even more capable off-road than its already impressive predecessors.
- Premium Interiors: The use of high-quality materials and the attention to detail in the interior design elevate the Thar from a purely utilitarian vehicle to one that can compete with more premium SUVs.
- ADAS Features: The inclusion of advanced driver assistance systems is a game-changer for the Thar, significantly enhancing both safety and everyday usability.
- Harman Kardon Sound System: The premium audio system is a unexpected but welcome addition, making the Thar as enjoyable to be in as it is to drive.
- AdventureStat: This unique feature provides real-time off-road data, enhancing the driving experience for enthusiasts and making off-roading more accessible for novices.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: Despite the increase in power and features, the 2025 Thar manages to be more fuel-efficient than its predecessors, making it more economical to run.
- Customization Options: Mahindra offers a wide range of accessories and customization options, allowing buyers to truly make their Thar their own.
The Thar Comes of Age
The 2025 Mahindra Thar represents a coming of age for this iconic vehicle. It has evolved from a niche off-roader to a versatile SUV that can genuinely be used as a daily driver without sacrificing its legendary capabilities. The improvements in comfort, technology, and safety make it appealing to a much wider audience, while the enhancements to its off-road abilities ensure that it stays true to its roots.
Is it perfect? No vehicle is. The increased sophistication comes with a higher price tag, which might put it out of reach for some buyers who were drawn to the simplicity and affordability of earlier models. And purists might argue that some of the new features detract from the raw, connected driving experience that made the original Thar so appealing.
However, for most buyers, the 2025 Mahindra Thar represents an almost perfect blend of capability, comfort, and style. It’s a vehicle that can take you to the most remote locations on the weekend and then comfortably drive you to work on Monday morning. It’s a testament to Mahindra’s engineering prowess and their understanding of what modern SUV buyers want.
In a market flooded with crossovers and soft-roaders, the 2025 Mahindra Thar stands out as a true SUV that hasn’t forgotten its purpose. It’s a vehicle that encourages adventure, that begs to be driven off the beaten path. But now, it does so with a level of refinement and capability that puts it in a class of its own.
For those who value authenticity, capability, and now, comfort, the 2025 Mahindra Thar isn’t just a choice – it’s the choice. It’s more than just a vehicle; it’s a statement, a lifestyle, and a promise of adventure. The legend of the Thar continues, better than ever.
ALSO READ: Experience Dhaansu Performance with the Force Gurkha 5 Door Car, Check the Price