The Indian automotive landscape has witnessed several icons, but few have commanded the cult following of the Mahindra Thar. However, it was the arrival of the Mahindra Thar ROXX that truly bridged the gap between a hardcore off-roader and a sophisticated family SUV. Since its debut, the “ROXX” moniker has become synonymous with presence, power, and practicality.
As we move further into 2026, the excitement surrounding this lifestyle SUV has reached a fever pitch. With Mahindra recently pulling the wraps off the Thar ROXX Star Edition and rumors of a future facelift swirling, buyers and enthusiasts are eager to know what’s next. Whether you are navigating the winding hills of Munnar or cruising the urban stretches of Kochi, here is everything you need to know about the current updates and the buzz for the future.
Mahindra Thar ROXX: A Quick Overview
The Thar ROXX isn’t just a 5-door version of the standard Thar; it’s a re-engineered beast built on an advanced platform. While the 3-door Thar focuses on the purist off-roader, the ROXX is positioned as a lifestyle SUV designed for those who want the “Thar life” without sacrificing rear-seat comfort or luggage space.
What sets it apart is its dual-purpose nature. It features a refined suspension setup, premium interiors, and a suite of modern tech like a panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS. This unique positioning has made it a top choice for urban professionals who occasionally want to conquer a beach or a forest trail on the weekend.
New Edition Updates: Enter the “Star Edition”
Mahindra has a tradition of keeping its lineup fresh through special editions, and the latest one—the Thar ROXX Star Edition, launched in late January 2026—does exactly that. This edition focuses on aesthetic elevation and premium exclusivity.
Exterior Styling Tweaks
The Star Edition brings a sophisticated, “blacked-out” look to the rugged SUV. Key changes include:
The Hero Color: A vibrant new Citrine Yellow has been introduced, contrasted by dark accents.
Piano Black Finish: The signature six-slot grille and the large 19-inch alloy wheels now sport a high-gloss piano black finish.
Bespoke Badging: Subtle “Star Edition” badges on the C-pillars distinguish it from the standard trims.
Interior Enhancements
Inside, the light-colored “Ivory” theme that some found difficult to maintain has been swapped for a much-requested All-Black Leatherette theme.
Suede Accents: The seats feature premium suede inserts for better grip and a richer feel.
Sophisticated Trims: The lower half of the dashboard and door pads now feature a grey finish to contrast the black upholstery.
Feature Carry-over: It retains high-end features like ventilated front seats, the 9-speaker Harman Kardon system, and the twin 10.25-inch digital screens.
Facelift Buzz: What the Market Is Talking About
While the Star Edition is a current reality, the “Facelift Buzz” is centered on what Mahindra might do late in 2026 or early 2027 to keep up with intensifying competition.
Why the Rumors?
Industry experts point to Mahindra’s rapid tech evolution in models like the XUV 7XO and the upcoming electric range. Camouflaged test mules have also been spotted recently, fueling speculation that a mild refresh is on the horizon.
Expected Changes (Market Speculation)
Design Refresh: While the iconic boxy silhouette will remain, we might see revised LED DRL signatures and a more integrated grille design.
Feature Upgrades: Rumors suggest the addition of Dual-zone Climate Control and potential improvements to the infotainment interface.
Mechanical Speculation: Some industry insiders speculate on the introduction of a 1.5-litre diesel engine to make the ROXX more accessible, though this remains unconfirmed.
Note: As of now, Mahindra has not officially confirmed a facelift timeline or mechanical changes for the Thar ROXX. Most current updates are aesthetic and feature-based, as seen in the Star Edition.
Engine & Performance: The Heart of the Beast
One reason the Thar ROXX remains a segment leader is its powertrain versatility. No official mechanical changes have been announced for the 2026 updates, which is actually good news—the current engines are already class-leading.
The 2.0L mStallion Petrol engine offers refined highway cruising and city drives with up to 177 hp and 380 Nm. Meanwhile, the 2.2L mHawk Diesel engine is a favorite for hill climbs and long-distance touring, delivering up to 175 hp and 400 Nm. Both come with 6-speed Manual and 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic options. For those in Kerala, the Diesel Automatic remains the preferred choice for its effortless torque when navigating high-range roads.
Why Thar ROXX Suits Kerala Roads
Kerala presents a unique driving environment—narrow winding roads, steep inclines in the Western Ghats, and heavy monsoon rains. The Thar ROXX feels tailor-made for this geography.
Monsoon Confidence: With a 650mm water-wading depth and 226mm ground clearance, navigating flooded streets or slushy plantation tracks during the rains is stress-free.
The Hill Climb: The low-end torque of the mHawk diesel makes the climb to Idukki or Wayanad feel like a breeze, even with a full load of five passengers.
Road Presence: In a state that appreciates “bold” vehicles, the ROXX has an unmissable stance that commands respect on the busy NH-66.
Thar ROXX & Self-Drive Rental Demand
The Thar ROXX has revolutionized the self-drive rental market in Kerala. Previously, travelers had to choose between a small hatchback or a large, cumbersome MPV.
Tourism Appeal: Tourists landing in Kochi or Trivandrum are increasingly opting for the ROXX. It offers the “cool factor” for photos at Athirappilly falls while providing the comfort required for a family trip.
Group Travel: Unlike the 3-door Thar, the ROXX can comfortably fit five adults and 447 liters of luggage, making it the perfect weekend getaway vehicle for groups of friends.
What Buyers Should Expect Next
If you are in the market for a Thar ROXX, Mahindra’s strategy is clear: they use Special Editions to keep the vehicle “fresh” and desirable while major updates are developed.
If you love the current design but want a darker, more premium cabin that is easier to maintain, the Star Edition (currently available in RWD) is your answer. If you are waiting for a mechanical overhaul or a 4×4 variant of the Star Edition, you may need to wait longer, as current updates focus primarily on lifestyle and urban appeal.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Thar ROXX continues to be a dominant force in the Indian SUV market. The introduction of the Star Edition addresses the most common user feedback—providing a premium black interior and a more sophisticated exterior finish. While facelift rumors keep the tech-savvy crowd talking, the current ROXX remains a highly capable, 5-star Bharat NCAP-rated fortress on wheels.
Whether you’re buying it for daily use or renting it for a Kerala road trip, the ROXX is more than just a car; it’s an invitation to adventure.