Mahindra Thar Roxx adds keyless entry and sliding front armrest

The Mahindra Thar Roxx has received a series of targeted feature upgrades designed to bridge the gap between its rugged off-road credentials and everyday cabin practicality, as detailed in reporting by Car Lelo. Positioned as a more feature-rich successor to the older three-door Thar, the Thar Roxx previously required motorists to operate a physical key to gain entry. According to Car Lelo, the new keyless entry system allows drivers to unlock the vehicle at the push of a button, replacing an aspect that felt outdated compared to modern SUVs.

Further cabin enhancements include a sliding mechanism for the passenger-side front armrest, mirroring the convenience already offered on the driver's side. This small yet thoughtful addition enhances comfort, especially during long drives. Additional interior details span all-LED lighting and interior choices of Ivory White and Mocha Brown themes. Aerodynamic wipers have also been integrated to dampen wind resistance and cabin noise, ensuring a quieter and more pleasant driving experience, particularly at high speeds or during heavy rainfall.

Media additions

Under the bonnet, the Thar Roxx continues to offer two distinct engine configurations. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol unit delivers up to 174 bhp of power and 380 Nm of torque, while the 2.2-litre diesel engine can produce up to 172 bhp and 370 Nm of torque. Transmissions for both options span either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. While petrol variants are restricted exclusively to a rear-wheel-drive setup, the diesel engine caters to both rear-wheel drive and a more capable four-wheel-drive configuration, making the SUV suitable for both urban and off-road adventures.

Broader automotive industry developments in the region highlight a competitive landscape with aggressive product expansions from rival manufacturers. As reported by India Car News, competitors such as Maruti Suzuki have outlined an ambitious product strategy for the Indian market, preparing a wave of utility vehicles, affordable compact UV models, and electric offerings. Maruti Suzuki is set to begin its rollout with the launch of its first-ever electric offering, the Maruti e Vitara, at the 2025 Bharat Mobility Show. Additionally, the OEM will introduce a new flagship SUV based on the Grand Vitara and the updated Fronx with its own strong hybrid powertrain. Long-term plans for the Indo-Japanese automaker emphasize the launch of a new range of SUVs and MPVs arriving by 2028.

Among these forthcoming competitor models, Maruti Suzuki is developing an electric compact MPV codenamed YMC to challenge the Kia Carens EV, with a launch expected in the second half of 2026. This electric MPV is likely to be based on the Heartect-e platform and may borrow battery packs from the e Vitara. A Toyota derivative of the Maruti YMC electric MPV is also expected to arrive nearly 9 -12 months after Maruti's version. This will be followed by an entry-level compact SUV positioned against the Hyundai Exter and Tata Punch, hitting roads in the 2026-27 period with the Swift's 1.2L, 3-cylinder Z-Series petrol engine. Maruti is working on a sub-4 meter MPV based on the Suzuki Solio as an affordable, three-row offering to rival the Renault Triber, alongside an SUV based on the Suzuki Hustler featuring a tallboy design reminiscent of Kei cars.

Other automotive manufacturers are similarly active in the regional market. Audi has begun local production for the new Audi Q3 ahead of its October 16 launch, featuring a 204 hp petrol engine, Quattro AWD and new features. Mahindra itself has a busy pipeline ahead, including upcoming vehicle launches and special editions such as the Thar Roxx Star Edition reaches dealerships with Stealth Black paint, blacked-out interior, 19-inch black alloys and unchanged engines, a potential Black Edition Thar ROXX in the works, a refreshed Thar facelift, and new models like the Vision S and BE 07 scheduled for early 2027.