Exclusive: Mahindra’s Thar and XUV700 facelifts coming in 2026 – Expect stunning design updates, premium features, and unchanged powertrains that will redefine SUV excellence.
Are you ready for an automotive transformation that’s about to send ripples through the SUV market? Mahindra is gearing up to unleash game-changing facelifts for its two most iconic SUVs – the Thar and XUV700 – set to launch in 2026.
Table of Contents
The Evolution Begins: What’s Changing?
Mahindra Thar: More Than Just a Facelift
Exterior Transformation
The 3-door Thar is getting a major style upgrade, drawing inspiration from its 5-door Roxx sibling:
- Refreshed front grille
- Redesigned headlamps
- Updated body cladding
- New alloy wheel design
Interior Innovations
Prepare for a tech-driven makeover:
- 10.25-inch touchscreen (upgraded from 7-inch)
- Fully digital instrument cluster
- Potential sunroof addition
- Premium steering wheel with updated control buttons
Powertrain: Tried and Tested Performance
Mahindra keeps its winning engine lineup intact:
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | 2.0-litre | 150 hp | 300-320 Nm | 6-speed Manual/Automatic |
| Diesel (Small) | 1.5-litre | 117 hp | 300 Nm | 6-speed Manual |
| Diesel (Large) | 2.2-litre | 130 hp | 300 Nm | 6-speed Manual/Automatic |
XUV700: Sporty Meets Sophisticated
Design Language
Inspired by Mahindra’s electric avatars XEV 9e and BE 6:
- Sharper, more aggressive profile
- Connected LED headlamps
- Squared-off wheel arches
- Enhanced body cladding
Tech and Safety Upgrades
- Updated ADAS package
- Sportier interior design
- Potential feature additions from EV lineup
Powertrain Continuity
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power | Torque | Transmission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turbo Petrol | 2.0-litre | 197 hp | 380 Nm | 6-speed Manual/Automatic |
| Diesel (Lower) | 2.2-litre | 153 hp | 360 Nm | 6-speed Manual |
| Diesel (Higher) | 2.2-litre | 182 hp | 420-450 Nm | 6-speed Manual/Automatic |
Why This Matters
Mahindra isn’t just updating two SUVs -they’re making a statement. While rapidly expanding their electric vehicle portfolio, the company continues to innovate in the internal combustion engine segment.
FAQs:
Q: When will these facelifted models be launched?
A: Both the Thar and XUV700 facelifts are scheduled for launch in 2026.
Q: Will the powertrains remain the same?
A: Yes, Mahindra plans to retain the existing engine options for both SUVs.
Q: What are the key design inspirations?
A: The designs draw significant inspiration from Mahindra’s recent electric vehicles, particularly the XEV 9e and BE 6.
The Road Ahead
Mahindra’s 2026 facelift strategy demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement. By blending familiar performance with fresh design language, they’re ensuring these SUVs remain at the cutting edge of the market.
