Mahindra Thar, XUV700 facelifts launch on cards next year

Mahindra has experienced a significant resurgence in the post-Covid era, thanks to its new generation of vehicles, including the Thar, XUV700, Scorpio N, XUV 3XO, and Thar Roxx. These models have played a crucial role in Mahindra’s impressive sales growth over the past 3-4 years. Now, the homegrown carmaker is reportedly developing facelifted versions of the Thar and XUV700.

Mahindra Gears Up for Thar and XUV700 Facelifts

According to Autocar India, Mahindra is preparing updated versions of the Thar and XUV700, expected to debut around 2026. The Thar was initially launched in 2020, followed by the XUV700 in 2021. Therefore, these mid-cycle updates for both SUVs are perfectly timed.

Mahindra Thar Facelift: What to Expect

The report indicates that the upcoming 3-door Thar facelift, internally codenamed W515, will primarily feature cosmetic enhancements, aligning it with the more recent Thar Roxx, its five-door counterpart. Styling revisions on the updated Thar will likely include:

  • A redesigned front grille with double-stacked slots
  • C-shaped LED elements in the headlights and tail-lamps
  • Redesigned front and rear bumpers
  • New alloy wheels

Inside the cabin, we can anticipate several noteworthy changes. The most prominent update is expected to be a new steering wheel, borrowed from the 5-door Thar, with revised button placement. Additionally, expect:

  • A larger infotainment touchscreen
  • A fully digital instrument cluster
  • A sunroof for hard-top variants

…among other refinements.

Mahindra XUV700 Facelift: What’s on the Horizon?

Regarding the Mahindra XUV700 facelift, internally codenamed W616, this mid-size SUV is poised to adopt more radical design updates, drawing inspiration from the new Electric Origin SUVs, particularly the XEV 9e and the forthcoming XEV 8e. Key visual highlights to look forward to include:

  • A connected LED headlight setup
  • A redesigned front grille
  • Squared-off wheel arches with plastic claddings

The interiors of the XUV700 facelift are set to receive a sportier transformation. While the current XUV700 is already well-equipped, the facelift may introduce several new features. Enhanced safety is also anticipated, with an upgraded ADAS package.

Powertrain: What Will Drive the Future?

The powertrain options for both the facelifted Mahindra Thar and XUV700 are expected to remain largely unchanged.

Mahindra Thar Engine Options:

The Thar will likely continue with these engine choices:

  • A 117 bhp 1.5-litre mHawk diesel
  • A 150 bhp 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged petrol engine
  • A 130 bhp mHawk diesel engine

Transmission options for the latter two will include a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic, while the 1.5-litre diesel will be exclusively paired with a 6-speed manual.

Mahindra XUV700 Engine Options:

Expect the XUV700 facelift to offer these engine choices:

  • A 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 197 bhp and 380 Nm of peak torque
  • A 2.2-litre turbo-diesel mill developing between 153-183 bhp and 360-450 Nm of torque, depending on the variant.

Both engines will likely be available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.