The Mahindra Thar has long been a symbol of rugged adventure, off-road capability, and timeless design in India’s automotive landscape. Since its debut, the Thar has captured the hearts of enthusiasts who crave the thrill of the wild and the freedom of the open road. With the launch of the 2025 Mahindra Thar, the brand continues to build on its legacy, blending classic charm with modern sophistication. But how does the new Thar stack up against its predecessor? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of the old vs new Thar and explore what’s changed, what’s improved, and what remains true to its roots.
🧭 Design: Classic DNA Meets Contemporary Flair
Old Thar (Pre-2020): The original Thar was unapologetically utilitarian. Its boxy silhouette, exposed hinges, and minimalistic interiors were reminiscent of old-school Jeeps. It was built for function, not fashion. While this appealed to hardcore off-roaders, it lacked the refinement needed for urban appeal.
2025 Thar: The latest Thar retains its iconic shape but adds a layer of sophistication. Rounded edges, LED DRLs, alloy wheels, and a more aerodynamic stance make it look modern without losing its rugged charm. The hard-top variant adds practicality, while the convertible soft-top keeps the adventure spirit alive. It’s a design that bridges generations—classic enough for purists, stylish enough for millennials.
🛋️ Interior: From Spartan to Smart
Old Thar: Step inside the older Thar, and you’d find a bare-bones cabin. Hard plastics, basic instrumentation, and limited creature comforts were the norm. It was built for mud, not luxury.
2025 Thar: The new Thar is a revelation. Touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, climate control, cruise control, and premium upholstery elevate the driving experience. The dashboard is ergonomically designed, and the seats offer better support for long drives. It’s no longer just a weekend warrior—it’s a daily driver with style.
⚙️ Performance: Power and Precision
Old Thar: The earlier Thar came with a 2.5L CRDe diesel engine, delivering decent torque but lacking refinement. The ride was bumpy, steering was heavy, and highway manners were questionable. It was a beast off-road but a handful on city streets.
2025 Thar: Mahindra now offers two engine options: a 2.0L mStallion turbo-petrol and a 2.2L mHawk diesel. Both are BS6-compliant and paired with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The petrol variant offers punchy acceleration, while the diesel excels in torque delivery. Improved suspension, better NVH levels, and refined steering make the new Thar equally capable off-road and comfortable on-road.
🛡️ Safety: A Giant Leap Forward
Old Thar: Safety was never the old Thar’s strong suit. Basic seatbelts, no airbags, and minimal crash protection meant it was best suited for experienced drivers.
2025 Thar: The new Thar comes equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP with rollover mitigation, hill-hold and hill-descent control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. It’s built on a stronger platform and has earned a respectable safety rating. Mahindra has clearly prioritized occupant protection without compromising on adventure.
🌍 Off-Road Capability: Still a Trailblazer
Old Thar: This was the Thar’s playground. With a mechanical 4×4 transfer case, solid axles, and high ground clearance, it could tackle almost any terrain. It was raw, mechanical, and thrilling.
2025 Thar: The new Thar continues this legacy with a shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system, better articulation, and improved approach and departure angles. It’s more refined but just as capable. Whether it’s sand dunes, rocky trails, or river crossings, the 2025 Thar is ready.
💰 Price and Value: Worth the Upgrade?
Old Thar: The older model was priced attractively, making it accessible to off-road enthusiasts. However, its limited features and dated design meant it wasn’t for everyone.
2025 Thar: The new Thar commands a premium, with prices starting around ₹11 lakh and going up to ₹17 lakh depending on the variant. But considering the upgrades in design, comfort, safety, and performance, it offers tremendous value. It’s not just a niche off-roader anymore—it’s a lifestyle vehicle.
🏁 Verdict: Evolution, Not Revolution
The 2025 Mahindra Thar isn’t a radical departure from its roots—it’s a thoughtful evolution. It respects the legacy of the original while embracing the demands of modern drivers. The old Thar was a symbol of raw adventure; the new Thar is that, plus comfort, safety, and style.
For long-time fans, the new Thar is a proud continuation of a beloved icon. For new buyers, it’s an invitation to explore the road less traveled—with a bit more luxury along the way.
Leave a Reply