The Mahindra Thar has established itself as a cult favourite in India’s off-roading community. From its rugged design to its commanding road presence, it’s more than just an SUV—it’s a lifestyle. With Mahindra now gearing up to launch a new variant, the Thar Sport, the buzz is palpable. Spy shots, teasers, and leaked features have started surfacing, suggesting a bolder and more dynamic twist to an already iconic vehicle.
Whether you’re a Thar enthusiast or someone eyeing your next adventure SUV, here are 5 important things you should know about the Mahindra Thar Sport edition before it hits Indian roads.
1. A More Aggressive and Sporty Design
The biggest talking point of the upcoming Thar Sport is its bold visual upgrade. While the original Thar has a rugged, military-inspired look, the Sport edition takes a more aggressive approach with:
- Revised front bumper for a sportier appeal
- Glossy black accents on the grille, mirrors, and roof
- New alloy wheels with a dual-tone finish
- Exclusive Sport badging on the sides and rear
These design tweaks are expected to cater to younger buyers who want a blend of off-road capability and urban styling.
2. Possible New Engine Option or Performance Tuning
While Mahindra has not officially revealed the powertrain specifications, sources suggest that the Thar Sport might offer performance upgrades or even a new engine variant. Currently, the Thar is available with:
- 2.0L turbo-petrol engine (150 bhp, 320 Nm)
- 2.2L diesel engine (130 bhp, 300 Nm)
For the Sport edition, there could be retuned power outputs, improved gear ratios for better acceleration, or enhanced drivetrain response. The goal is to offer a more dynamic on-road and off-road experience without compromising fuel efficiency.
3. Enhanced Interior with Sporty Touches
The current Thar, though functional and rugged, has been criticized for its basic interiors. With the Thar Sport, Mahindra is likely to upgrade the cabin with a premium sporty feel. Expected features include:
- Red or contrast stitching on the seats
- Sporty leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Dashboard accents in brushed metal or piano black finish
The Sport variant may also offer climate control, connected car features, and enhanced insulation for a quieter cabin experience.
4. Better Ride Quality and Road Handling
One of the areas Mahindra is expected to improve in the Thar Sport is its suspension setup. The standard Thar excels in off-road scenarios but tends to feel stiff on city roads or highways.
With the Sport edition, the SUV could receive:
- Improved suspension tuning for better ride comfort
- Enhanced braking system for high-speed performance
- Possibly new driving modes (like Sport or Urban)
These changes aim to make the Thar a more well-rounded SUV that can comfortably handle both city streets and wild terrains.
5. Expected Launch Date and Price Range
Though Mahindra has not confirmed the exact launch date, industry insiders speculate that the Thar Sport will make its official debut by the end of 2025 or early 2026.
As for pricing, the Thar Sport is expected to carry a slight premium over the current models. Here’s an estimated price range:
- Current Thar price: ₹11.25 Lakh – ₹17 Lakh (ex-showroom)
- Expected Thar Sport price: ₹13.5 Lakh – ₹18.5 Lakh (ex-showroom)
Considering the added features, sporty appeal, and limited edition feel, the pricing seems justified and will appeal to buyers looking for exclusivity.
Bonus: What Sets the Thar Sport Apart from the Standard Thar?
| Feature | Standard Thar | Thar Sport (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Styling | Rugged, utilitarian | Sleeker, sportier look |
| Interior Touches | Basic & functional | Premium with sporty trim |
| Engine Performance | Balanced | Possible performance tune |
| Suspension Setup | Off-road focused | Road comfort focused |
| Target Audience | Adventure seekers | Urban + lifestyle buyers |
Conclusion: Is the Thar Sport Worth the Wait?
Absolutely! The Mahindra Thar Sport is more than just a cosmetic update. It represents the evolution of an icon—an SUV that respects its legacy while embracing modern sensibilities. With enhanced design, better performance, and premium features, it aims to attract a broader segment of SUV lovers.
Whether you’re looking for a vehicle to conquer the mountains or make a bold statement on city roads, the Thar Sport might just be the perfect blend of performance, presence, and personality.
So yes, it’s definitely worth waiting for.