Mahindra has launched the Thar facelift at Rs 8.03 lakh (ex-showroom, Nasik). Limited to the CRDe version, the changes include a locking diffrential, and some new additions inside and out.

The most prominent addition in the updated Thar is the rear locking differential. This Eaton unit engages automatically when it senses that difference in wheel speeds(rpm) is more than 10 percent, and helps improve grip in low-traction situations.

On the outside, the new front bumper is more shroud-like. The footrests on the side are bigger and it gets fender extenders. The biggest modification on the updated Thar is seen in its side profile — the canopy is now tilted from the back.

Step inside, and that's where the bigger changes lie. There’s a new dual-tone dashboard and a new instrument cluster with some chrome embellishment. The seats are new, a few cupholders are added, and the steering wheel, gear lever, air-con controls and the handbrake lever are borrowed from the Bolero.

The facelifted Thar continues with the same 105bhp 2.5-litre CRDe engine mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.