Upgraded Mahindra Thar OG Is A Jeep Wrangler Clone With A Sub-$11k Price

The Mahindra Thar is one of the best-known Jeep Wrangler impersonators, with great success in the Indian market. While the model remains the top seller among lifestyle off-roaders, Mahindra has just introduced a heavily upgraded version of the two-door Thar OG.

The second generation of the Mahindra Thar was introduced in 2020 and received subtle updates in late 2025. A year later, the automaker strikes back with the Thar OG, bringing revised styling, more powerful engines, and, most importantly, a new chassis. Technology features are sourced from the five-door Thar Roxx, which debuted in mid-2024 as a more practical and refined alternative.

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Predictably, the new Mahindra Thar OG retains the signature Wrangler-inspired design but it now sports a more stylish five-slot grille, a more pronounced bumper, full LED headlights with C-shaped DRLs, and squared-off fog lights mounted on the fenders.

Mahindra

Other changes include reshaped fender flares, LED taillights sourced from the Thar Roxx, and vertical reflectors on the rear bumper. The flagship trim comes with a new set of 19-inch alloy wheels with a double five-spoke design, and the color palette is expanded with the addition of the new Artemis Silver and Jeans Blue options.

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Inside, the Thar OG retains the 10.25-inch infotainment display that was introduced with the 2025 update, combined with a carry-over analogue instrument cluster. What’s new for 2026? A push-button start, a USB Type-C port for the rear passengers, rear seat armrests with cupholders, and a light in the cargo area.

The range-topping ZXT features Truffle Brown leatherette upholstery, wireless charging, a rearview camera, and front parking sensors. Finally, 4WD trims get a washable floor with drain plugs so you don’t have to worry about your muddy boots.

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In terms of safety, Mahindra added basic systems such as rollover mitigation, traction control, hill-hold assist, and dynamics control as standard across the lineup alongside dual airbags. The flagship trim is slightly more advanced, adding six airbags and four disc brakes instead of rear drums.

Big Changes Under The Skin

Unlike most facelifts, the Thar OG migrates to the new-generation M_Glyde 4G ladder-frame architecture from the five-door Thar Roxx. The new underpinnings promise improved on-road and off-road manners, better rigidity, a higher ground clearance at 9.1 inches (232 mm), and wider tracks by 2.4 in (60 mm).

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The Thar OG also gets a new suspension setup with Mahindra’s DAVINCI damping technology, while the flagship ZXT trim adds Frequency Dependent Damping (FDD). Furthermore, the full lineup of the off-roader benefits from an Electric Power Steering system, improving maneuverability compared to the previous hydraulic setup.

More Powerful Engines

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In terms of powertrains, two of the three available engines gain a power boost. The output of the 2.2-liter turbodiesel has been increased by 20 hp (15 kW) to 150 hp (112 kW / 152 PS), while the turbo 2.0-liter gasoline engine gains 10 hp (8 kW), to 160 hp (119 kW / 162 PS). Both make 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque, an increase of 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) compared to their predecessors. Finally, the base 1.5-liter turbodiesel remains unchanged, producing 117 hp (87 kW / 119 PS) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque.

Depending on the variant, power is sent to the rear or all four wheels through a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. All 4WD models come equipped with an electronic locking rear differential and offer additional drive modes for difficult terrains (Mud, Sand, and Snow).

Six Mahindra OGs For The Price Of A Single Jeep Wrangler

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While the upgrades are nice, the ultimate highlight of the Mahindra Thar OG remains its competitive pricing. The off-roader is available to order in India, with prices starting as low as ₹ 10.32 lakh ($10,800) for the base AXT diesel RWD manual, a figure unchanged compared to its predecessor. Even the fully loaded ZXT 4WD diesel automatic costs ₹ 18.99 lakh ($19,800).

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Bear in mind that the real Jeep Wrangler starts at ₹66.20 lakh ($69,000) in India, meaning you could get six of the cheapest Mahindra Thar OG for the same amount. Direct rivals of the Thar include the Suzuki Jimny and the Force Gurkha.

As tempting as a sub-$11k Wrangler lookalike may sound to US readers, don’t expect the Mahindra Thar OG to arrive in North America. Stellantis has historically kept an eye on Mahindra’s questionable design choices, dragging them to court over the Roxor UTV and stopping them from importing the current Thar to Australia.

Given the obvious styling references to the Wrangler, the company will most likely keep the budget off-roader confined to its domestic market and select overseas territories, staying clear of legal troubles.

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