MAHINDRA Bolero

The Mahindra Bolero is a rugged and practical three-row SUV that has been a mainstay in Mahindra’s lineup since 2000. Renowned for its tough build and utilitarian nature, the Bolero is popular in rural and semi-urban markets for its durability and low maintenance. It is powered by a torque-rich diesel engine and designed to handle rough road conditions with ease. Despite its long presence in the market, the Bolero has retained its boxy silhouette and functional layout with only minor cosmetic and feature upgrades over the years. The SUV was last updated in March 2023 to comply with the latest BS6 Phase 2 emission norms.

• Performance: The Bolero is powered by Mahindra’s 1.5-litre mHawk75 turbocharged diesel engine that delivers 74.9 bhp at 3,600 rpm and 210 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 2,200 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The SUV uses a rear-wheel drive layout and is built on a ladder-frame chassis that is suited to tough terrains.
• Real-World Mileage: While Mahindra does not list official mileage figures, the Bolero has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 16 kmpl. It comes with a large 60-litre fuel tank, which gives it a considerable touring range ideal for long-distance or rural use.

Mahindra Bolero Pros and Cons

Bolero Pros:

• Unmatched Durability: The Bolero's tough, ladder-frame chassis and simple mechanicals are built to last and can handle the most punishing roads with ease.
• Low Maintenance: With its robust build and a wide service network even in remote areas, the Bolero is known for its low maintenance and easy, affordable repairs.
• Commanding Road Presence: The iconic, boxy design stands out and has a strong visual presence on the road.
• Practicality: The side-facing third-row seats offer a flexible 7-seat layout, and the high ground clearance of 180 mm allows it to tackle almost any terrain.
• Value for Money: At its price point, it offers unmatched ruggedness and practicality as a people-mover or a load carrier.

Bolero Cons:

• Dated Design & Interior: The Bolero’s design and interior have remained largely unchanged, lacking the modern flair and premium feel of its urban rivals. The cabin is utilitarian with hard plastics and minimal features.
• Basic Safety: While it includes dual airbags and ABS, the Bolero has not been tested by Global NCAP. Its sibling, the Bolero Neo, received a 1-star safety rating, which suggests its platform may not offer the same level of occupant protection as more modern monocoque SUVs.
• Uncomfortable Third Row: The side-facing jump seats in the third row are best suited for short distances or children, as they lack proper support and safety features.

Deeper Dive: Price, Variants, and Ownership Costs

The Mahindra Bolero is offered in three variants, with the price difference reflecting an incremental addition of features.

Mahindra Bolero Ownership Costs:

• On-Road Price: The listed prices are ex-showroom. The on-road price will include RTO, insurance, and other charges, bringing the final price to approximately ₹11 lakh to ₹12.5 lakh.
• Maintenance: The estimated maintenance cost for the first five years is a remarkably low ₹20,000 to ₹25,000. The widespread availability of affordable spare parts and Mahindra's extensive service network further contribute to its low running costs.

The Competition: A Unique Space

The Mahindra Bolero occupies a unique niche, with no direct rival that offers the same combination of ruggedness, seating capacity, and a diesel engine at this price point.

• Vs. Mahindra Bolero Neo: The Bolero Neo is the more modern, urban-friendly sibling with a more comfortable ride, a better-equipped cabin, and a forward-facing third row. The standard Bolero, however, remains the go-to choice for those prioritizing an unyielding, utilitarian build.
• Vs. Renault Triber: While the Triber is a more modern, feature-rich 7-seater MPV at a lower price, it lacks the Bolero's rugged build, diesel engine, and ground clearance, making it less suitable for rough terrains.

Final Verdict: Who is This For?

The Mahindra Bolero is a car for a specific type of buyer. It is the perfect vehicle for farmers, contractors, and individuals in rural or semi-urban areas who need a reliable, low-maintenance workhorse that can handle any road, carry a full family, and won't break the bank.

If you are a city dweller looking for comfort, modern features, and a premium experience, the Bolero will likely feel outdated. But if you value an unbreakable build, go-anywhere capability, and an unbeatable reputation for toughness, the Bolero is a legendary choice that proves a car can be a dependable companion for decades.

Mahindra Bolero: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Mahindra Bolero 9-seater 2025?

The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus (9-seater) is priced from ₹10.77 lakh (ex-showroom). The upcoming 2025 Bolero is expected to start at around ₹10.00 lakh.

What is the mileage of the Mahindra Bolero 2025?

The current Bolero has a certified mileage of 16 kmpl. Real-world mileage is typically between 14-16 kmpl.

What is the safety rating of the Mahindra Bolero?

The Bolero has a 3-star rating for Adult Occupant Protection and a 1-star rating for Child Occupant Protection from Bharat NCAP.

What are the features of the Bolero 2025?

The new model is expected to get a major update with features like a large infotainment screen, digital instrument cluster, sunroof, and ADAS.

What are the prices and mileage of other Bolero variants?

• Bolero Pickup 4x4: Price starts at ₹9.41 lakh, with a mileage of 13-14 kmpl.
• Bolero Camper 4x4: Price from ₹10.61 lakh, with a mileage of 16 kmpl.

What new Mahindra cars are launching in 2025?

Mahindra is expected to launch facelifts for the Bolero, Thar, and XUV700 in 2025.

What are the engine specifications of the Bolero?

The Mahindra Bolero is powered by a 1.5L mHAWK75 diesel engine with a displacement of 1493 cc. This engine produces 75 bhp and 210 Nm of torque.

What are the dimensions of the Bolero?

The Bolero measures 3995 mm in length, 1745 mm in width, and 1880 mm in height.

What are the transmission and drivetrain options?

The Bolero is offered with a 5-speed manual transmission. It primarily comes with a Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) system, but a 4x4 drivetrain is available on select variants like the Bolero Camper.

What are the tyre specifications?

The standard tyre size for the Mahindra Bolero is 215/75 R15.

What are the different variants of the Bolero?

The Mahindra Bolero is available in several variants, including the B4, B6, and B6(O). Additionally, there are other models like the Bolero Neo Plus (9-seater) and various pickup variants like the Bolero Camper and Bolero Pik-Up.