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Two of Mahindra’s highest-selling models, the Thar and Bad700are set to receive facelifts in 2026, Autocar India can confirm. The Thar debuted in 2020 and the XUV700 launched in 2021, so both SUVs are due for a comprehensive update.
- Thar facelift will adopt design changes similar to Thar Roxx
- Mahindra BE 6 and XEV 9e to influence styling updates for XUV700 facelift
- Both updated SUVs will see no mechanical changes
Mahindra Thar, XUV700 facelifts design changes
Thar facelift to take cues from Thar Roxx
We understand that the Thar 3-door facelift (codenamed W515) will use the Thar spray as a design blueprint. Therefore, the styling changes for the Thar facelift will likely include a new grille with double-stacked slots, C-shaped LED signatures in the headlights and tail-lamps, redesigned bumpers and body cladding, new alloy wheels, etc.
Inside, similar updates are expected for the Thar facelift, like the Thar Roxx’s newer steering wheel, remapped button placements, and so on. An expanded feature list is likely as well, and could consist of a larger infotainment touchscreen, all-digital instrument cluster, and a sunroof for the hard-top variants.
XUV700 facelift to draw inspiration from BE 6 and XEV 9e
As for the XUV700 facelift (codenamed W616), it will adopt design updates that fall more in line with Mahindra’s newly-launched all-electric models, the BE 6 and Xev 9e. Since both EVs sport sharp, futuristic design languages, the same can be expected for the XUV700 facelift. The list of changes for the XUV700 facelift may comprise a connected LED headlight setup, updated grille design, squared-off cladding above the wheels, and more.
The same futuristic design cues are also anticipated to be carried over to the interior of the facelifted XUV700, alongside a greater quantity of standard equipment.
Mahindra Thar, XUV700 facelifts powertrain details
No mechanical changes expected
While the Thar and XUV700 facelifts will see thorough redesigns inside and out, they will carry forward their respective sets of engines and transmissions. For the Thar facelift, then, two turbo-diesel engines will be on offer: a 1.5-litre unit producing 119hp and 300Nm, as well as a 132hp, 2.2-litre mill. A 152hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol motor will also be available. All three engines can be had with a 6-speed manual as standard, and a 6-speed torque converter auto can be opted for the petrol and 2.2-litre diesel units.
The XUV700 facelift will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that’s good for 200hp and 380Nm, as well as a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel mill developing 155-185hp and 360-450Nm, depending on the spec. As far as transmissions go, both engines can be had with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter auto.
Also see:
Mahindra BE 6, XEV 9e waiting period stretches up to 6 months
