2026 Thar OG vs old Thar: How the facelifted SUV differs from the outgoing model in 5 major areas

Mahindra & Mahindra has introduced the facelifted Thar in India with a new identity, the Thar OG, while retaining the SUV’s existing entry price of Rs 10.32 lakh (ex-showroom). The updated model brings changes to its variant lineup, equipment and chassis, with several elements derived from the larger Thar Roxx. The range now extends to Rs 18.99 lakh with the new ZXT variant.

Compared with the outgoing Thar, the Thar OG receives an updated platform, revised suspension hardware, additional features and changes to its exterior lighting and styling. The powertrain choices, however, continue with the same 1.5-litre diesel, 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines.

2026 Thar OG vs old Thar: Price and variant lineup compared

The Thar OG keeps the previous starting price of Rs 10.32 lakh, meaning the entry point remains unchanged. The two existing variants equipped with the 1.5-litre diesel also continue at their earlier prices.


There are small price increases for the LXT 4WD versions powered by the 2.2-litre diesel and 2-litre turbo-petrol, with both now costing Rs 1,000 more than before. Mahindra has also expanded the lineup by introducing the ZXT trim across all three engine options, taking the top-end price to Rs 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India).

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Thar OG gets a wider stance and more ground clearance

The facelifted SUV uses a shortened version of the M-Glyde platform derived from the Thar Roxx. Its length stands at 3,995 mm, while the width measures 1,870 mm. This makes the Thar OG 10 mm longer and 50 mm wider than the outgoing version.

The height remains at 1,855 mm and the wheelbase continues at 2,450 mm. Ground clearance, meanwhile, rises from 226 mm in the outgoing model to 232 mm in the updated SUV.

There are also changes to the approach and breakover angles. The approach angle drops from 41.2 degrees to 40 degrees, while the breakover angle increases slightly from 26.2 degrees to 26.4 degrees. The departure angle remains unchanged at 36 degrees.

Exterior changes bring the Thar closer to the Roxx

At the front, Mahindra has replaced the outgoing six-slat grille with a five-slat design. Projector LED headlamps, daytime running lights, LED tail lamps and indicators are now part of the updated lighting package, with several elements shared with the Thar Roxx.

The fog lamps have been repositioned onto the fenders, while the front bumper now has a flatter and simpler design. The overall side profile remains largely familiar, with the main visible change being the alloy wheels. They retain a 10-spoke pattern but now feature a dual-tone finish.

At the rear, the overall shape has been carried over, although the tail lamps have been replaced by LED units similar to those used on the Thar Roxx. The rear bumper has also been redesigned with a flatter profile.

2026 Thar OG vs old Thar: Interior layout stays familiar but gains new equipment

The cabin retains the basic dashboard arrangement of the outgoing model, including the floating 10.25-inch touchscreen. The most noticeable visual change inside is the brown-and-black colour theme.

The compact dimensions continue to limit cabin space, with the vehicle suited to four occupants with moderate comfort. Depending on the area of the cabin, Mahindra uses plastic and leatherette finishes.

New additions include a wireless charger, push-button engine start and a digital driver display. The equipment list also includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker sound system, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver's seat and steering-mounted controls.

Safety equipment includes six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, ISOFIX mounts, a rear-view camera and a tyre pressure monitoring system. ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist and hill-descent control are also offered.

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Thar OG retains the three existing engine options

The biggest mechanical changes are concentrated in the chassis rather than the engine range. The Thar OG uses the shortened M-Glyde platform along with Pentalink suspension and DanVinci dampers. It also gets an electronic differential lock and a brake-lock differential aimed at improving traction in low-grip conditions.

The 2-litre mStallion turbo-petrol engine continues to produce 162 PS and 330 Nm and is available with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, along with 2WD and 4WD configurations.

The 1.5-litre CRDe diesel remains rated at 118 PS and 300 Nm. It is paired with a six-speed manual gearbox and offered with 2WD.

The 2.2-litre mHawk diesel continues to generate 152 PS and 330 Nm. It is available with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, as well as 2WD and 4WD options.

Overall, the Thar OG keeps the outgoing model's engine choices and starting price while introducing a revised variant structure, additional equipment and chassis changes influenced by the Thar Roxx. The result is an updated version of the compact SUV with changes across its design, cabin, dimensions and underpinnings rather than an entirely new powertrain lineup.