Mahindra Thar Old vs New: What's Changed?

The new model is not an all-new Thar, but the changes go beyond a simple cosmetic update. From its platform and suspension to equipment and off-road hardware, the Thar OG gets several upgrades over the model that was launched in 2020. Here is a look at the old Thar versus the new Thar OG.

The Thar OG starts at Rs 10.32 lakh (ex-showroom), which is the same starting price as the outgoing model. However, Mahindra has revised the variant line-up. The new ZXT variant has been added to the range and is available with all three engine options. Prices for the Thar OG now go up to Rs 18.99 lakh (ex-showroom).

The new Thar OG is 10 mm longer than the outgoing model. Its height and wheelbase remain unchanged. The ground clearance has increased by 6 mm, while the approach angle has reduced by 1.2 degrees. The breakover angle, meanwhile, has improved by 0.2 degrees. The departure angle remains unchanged.

One of the biggest mechanical changes is the move to the shortened version of the M-Glyde platform used by the Thar Roxx. The Thar OG also gets Pentalink suspension with DanVinci dampers. Mahindra has added an electronic differential lock and brake-lock differential as well. These additions are aimed at improving traction when driving over low-grip surfaces and during off-road conditions.

The overall silhouette of the Thar remains familiar, but the facelift brings several changes to the front and rear. The new Thar OG gets projector LED headlamps, LED DRLs, LED indicators and LED tail lamps inspired by the Thar Roxx. The front grille now has five slats instead of six on the outgoing model.

The fog lamps have also been moved to the fenders, while the front bumper gets a simpler design. From the side, the overall shape remains largely unchanged. The biggest visual update comes from the alloy wheels, which retain the 10-spoke design but now feature a dual-tone finish.

At the rear, the overall design remains familiar, but the Thar OG gets new LED tail lamps and a flatter bumper compared to the chunkier unit on the outgoing SUV.

The cabin layout has not changed significantly. The new Thar OG continues with the floating 10.25-inch touchscreen, but gets a new brown-and-black interior theme. The facelift also adds a few new features. These include a wireless charger, engine push-button start and a digital driver's display.

Read More: Tata Sierra Dark Edition Launched at Rs 13.99 Lakh: Here's What’s Different

Other features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker audio system, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver's seat and steering-mounted controls. In terms of safety, the Thar OG gets six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, a rear camera, TPMS, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, ABS with EBD, hill-hold control and hill-descent control.

The Thar OG continues with the same three engine options as the outgoing model. These include a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol, a 2.2-litre diesel and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. There is no major change in the powertrain line-up, but the new chassis, suspension and traction hardware are expected to make a difference to the SUV's on-road and off-road behaviour.

Read More: 2026 Mahindra Thar OG Launched: Top 5 Highlights

The Thar OG retains the core design and powertrain options of the 2020 Thar, but Mahindra has made changes to the platform, suspension, off-road hardware, lighting, interior and equipment list. The biggest changes are the shortened M-Glyde platform, Pentalink suspension, electronic differential lock and additional features. At the same time, the familiar three-door design and engine options have been carried forward.