The Mahindra Thar has long been more than just a vehicle in India; it is a cultural icon that represents adventure and a rugged lifestyle. As we move into 2026, the Thar brand is undergoing a significant transformation. With the recent launch of the exclusive Thar Roxx Star Edition and a strategic price revision across the lineup, Mahindra is clearly doubling down on its dominance in the lifestyle SUV segment. This article covers everything you need to know about the latest updates, from the new “Citrine Yellow” shade to the upcoming electric future of this off-road legend.
The Arrival of the Thar Roxx Star Edition
Mahindra recently expanded its five-door “Roxx” lineup with the introduction of the Thar Roxx Star Edition. Launched on January 23, 2026, this special edition is designed for buyers who want the ruggedness of a Thar but with a more premium, “stealthy” aesthetic.
The Star Edition stands out with its unique Citrine Yellow hero color, contrasted by piano black finishes on the front grille and the massive 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside, Mahindra has addressed a common customer request by replacing the standard white upholstery with a more practical and premium all-black leatherette interior featuring suede accents. This change makes the cabin much easier to maintain after off-road dusty trails.
Pricing Updates for January 2026
With the start of the new calendar year, Mahindra has implemented a price hike across the Thar range. Most variants of the 3-door Thar have seen a uniform increase of ₹20,000. However, in a move to keep the entry-level accessibility intact, the base AXT Diesel 2WD MT variant continues to be priced at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
The new pricing for the 3-door Thar LXT trims now starts at approximately ₹12.39 lakh, while the top-end Diesel 4WD Automatic reaches ₹17.19 lakh. For the 5-door Thar Roxx, the new Star Edition carries an introductory starting price of ₹16.85 lakh, positioning it as a premium lifestyle choice for families.
The Shift Toward the Five-Door Roxx
Market data from late 2025 and early 2026 reveals a massive shift in consumer preference. The 5-door Thar Roxx now accounts for nearly 68% of total Thar brand sales. While the 3-door version remains the purist’s choice for serious off-roading, the Roxx has captured the “family SUV” market.
The success of the Roxx is attributed to its enhanced practicality, featuring a larger 644-litre boot, a panoramic sunroof, and a Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite. It bridges the gap between a hardcore off-roader and a comfortable daily driver, a feat the 3-door model struggled to achieve due to its limited rear-seat access.
What is Next? The Thar.e and 3-Door Facelift
The future of the Thar is not just about bigger doors; it is about cleaner energy. Mahindra is heavily testing the Thar.e, an all-electric version of the SUV built on the INGLO-P1 platform. Expected to debut later in 2026, the Thar.e will likely feature a dual-motor setup for 4WD capability and a futuristic, boxy design that stays true to its heritage.
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Additionally, rumors and spy shots suggest that the 3-door Thar is due for a facelift by the 2026 festive season. This update is expected to borrow premium elements from the Roxx, such as the LED projector headlamps with C-shaped DRLs and a more modern digital instrument cluster.
Why the Thar Remains India’s Favorite SUV
Despite rising competition from the Force Gurkha and the Maruti Suzuki Jimny, the Thar maintains a vice-like grip on the Indian market. Its versatility is its greatest strength. Whether you are a city dweller looking for “road presence” or a weekend explorer tackling Himalayan trails, there is a Thar variant suited for you. The brand’s ability to evolve—moving from a basic off-roader to a tech-loaded lifestyle vehicle—ensures it remains the aspirational vehicle for millions of Indians.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the starting price of the Mahindra Thar in 2026?
The entry-level Mahindra Thar 3-door (AXT Diesel 2WD) is still priced at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom). However, most other variants have seen a price increase of ₹20,000 this year.
2. What is special about the Thar Roxx Star Edition?
The Star Edition features a new Citrine Yellow color, piano black exterior accents, and a more premium all-black interior which is easier to clean than the standard white cabin.
3. Is there a 5-door Thar available now?
Yes, the 5-door version is officially called the Thar Roxx. It offers more space, five seats, and better features compared to the classic 3-door model.
4. When is the Mahindra Thar Electric (Thar.e) launching?
The Thar.e is expected to be unveiled or launched in late 2026. It will be a fully electric SUV with high ground clearance and off-road capabilities.
5. Does the 3-door Thar have a sunroof?
Currently, the 3-door Thar does not come with a factory-fitted sunroof. For a sunroof, you would need to look at the 5-door Thar Roxx, which offers both single-pane and panoramic options.
